Since my career began at the IWRC more than 20 years ago, I’ve always seen the value of being an engaged member of the industry groups and associations of the sectors we serve, including attending their conferences. Just last week, IWRC staff were in attendance at not one, but three different industry conferences; the Iowa Recycling and Solid Waste Management Conference, the Iowa Environmental Health Association Conference and the Iowa Association of Energy Engineers Conference. 

Whether we have a booth in the exhibit hall, a place on stage speaking, or are just simply attending to learn and network, these gatherings of industry professionals are an incredible opportunity for us to grow our connection with our clients.

Realizing the Value

The next event that we’re heading to will be the Iowa Brewers Guild’s annual i-BEST Conference and Trade Show at Flix Brewhouse in Des Moines on November 8th. 

The Iowa Brewers Guild’s mission is to unify craft brewing professionals, promote Iowa beer, and advocate for the industry’s growth. I-BEST serves that mission by providing a daylong conference for Iowa breweries, cideries, and homebrewers that provides education on brewery specific techniques, legal and business administration, and marketing and taprooms and sales. 

We have been attending this conference since we first launched the Iowa Green Brewery Certification in 2017 at this very event. Every year after IBEST, we always have new breweries that are interested in or are ready to go through the certification process with us.

This year, I have the honor of speaking on a panel with two other esteemed experts to discuss the importance of water (and water conservation) in beer making. By presenting and exhibiting, we also reinforce our standing as subject matter experts and a resource for all Iowa Brewers Guild members. 

Like many of these industry conferences, i-BEST offers networking opportunities and an industry trade show. This is the one time we have every year to have face-to-face interactions with our industry clients in one place. Over the years, this event has allowed us to strengthen our relationships with Iowa brewery owners, managers, brewers and staff (sometimes they are all the same person).

Make an Appearance

Industry events, such as i-BEST, do the hard work for you by bringing all the resources, experts, professionals, and more all together in one place! Even though many of these businesses would be considered competitors, at these industry gatherings everyone is on the same team with the same goal…professional development and growing their industry. What more could you ask for?

As you attend these events, make sure to stop by the exhibitor booths and introduce yourself. Use those complimentary drink tickets at the evening social to meet new people and gain helpful resources. 

It’s such a privilege to attend these events and it’s a huge honor to be asked to present. We can’t wait to head to Des Moines and toast the great breweries in Iowa. 🍻