IBEX 2024 announces schedule of networking events and discussions

The International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX), a technical trade event for the recreational marine industry in North America, has released its full schedule of events. These include a range of special sessions and networking events aimed at fostering connections within the industry, facilitating business meetings and supporting partnerships. IBEX takes place at the Tampa Convention Center in Florida from 1-3 October 2024.

Networking events are scheduled each day at IBEX and include the popular Opening Night Party outside at the Sail Pavilion, sponsored by Wet Sounds, Inc. The All-Industry Exhibit Hall Happy Hour, sponsored by Hertz Marine/Audison Marine, and the Mid-Show Mixer, sponsored by Roswell Marine, return on Wednesday, as well as Pitch the Press, a fast-paced and fun live event for industry buyers and the press featuring a number of product pitches from a handful of select exhibitors.

Last year’s successful debut of Career Day, hosted in partnership with ABYC, returns on Thursday with a full day of activities for students including seminars and exhibit hall visits.

IBEX 2024 schedule

The full schedule of live events is available on the IBEX website.

Tickets for the Opening Day Industry Breakfast have sold out. The event will feature an Industry Address by Frank Hugelmeyer, president of the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), followed by the presentation of the IBEX Innovation Awards, and a keynote address by Charlie Cook, founder of the Cook Political Report. The breakfast is supported by sponsors AWLGRIP North America, Honda Marine, Interlux Yacht Finishes, the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF), Sea Hawk Paints, and Tides Marine Inc.

The IBEX Main Stage will host several discussions and panels throughout the three-day show. Avoiding Contradictions in Technology, scheduled for Wednesday, 2 October at 8:30 am, is moderated by Aaron Porter, editor of Professional BoatBuilder magazine, and Ben Stein, editor and publisher of Panbo.com. The panel will address managing the lifespan of boat designs alongside shorter-lived components such as electronics. Later that day, at 11 am, Dr. Thomas Dammrich will lead the Visionary Leadership Panel Discussion, focusing on leadership in small and medium-sized marine businesses. The session will include a catered lunch.

“IBEX is where better boats begin, and it is also the place where industry professionals come to network with colleagues and friends,” says Anne Dunbar, IBEX executive director. “The connections in our industry are what make our community so special, and we have a schedule packed with networking and special events. Everyone is invited to join; there’s something for everyone.”

Registration for IBEX 2024, which will take place at the Tampa Convention Centre from 1–3 October 2024, is currently open.