InfoComm announced the special events we can expect at the upcoming conference. The fourth annual Manufacturers Forum, scheduled from 4-5:30 pm on June 18th, offers a glimpse into AV industry trends and predictions from some of the biggest names in the business. This free event is moderated by Gary Kayye. CTS, of Kayye Consulting, and will feature thoughts from panelists Gerry Remers, President and COO, Christie Digital Systems; George Feldstein, President, Crestron Electronics, Inc.; Andrew Edwards, President, Extron Electronics; Michael MacDonald, Executive Vice President of Harman Pro Group; and Rick Snyder, President, Americas, Tandberg.

Immediately following the Manufacturers Forum is InfoComm’s Big Night, a free special event taking place in three stages, sponsored by Barco and Bosch Communications Systems. It begins as a networking event with opportunity for attendees to grow their list of contacts, connect with friends, and discuss industry issues over drinks and hors d’oeuvres.

Afterwards, the best in the professional AV industry will be recognized during a free, fast-paced awards ceremony. Award winners will be announced while images of their achievements are displayed. InfoComm International will present the Harald Thiel Volunteer of the Year, Distinguished Achievement and Educator of the Year awards. NewBay Media’s SCN (Systems Contractor News) recognizes the best installation products while its Rental & Staging Systems issues its staged events product awards. ARCHI-TECH pays tribute to the best fixed installations. PLASA’s Lighting&Sound America acknowledges the best staged events of the year.

The awards ceremony is immediately followed by drinks, dancing, and the AV Industry Battle of the Bands, where three industry bands will compete on a state-of-the-art stage for fun and prizes. 

Another event will be the new Rack Building Contest. Systems integrator teams will compete in a 24-hour contest to design and build a fully operational AV system. Attendees should stop by the contest area in Hall E throughout the Show to watch the build process, and visit sponsors’ booths to enter to win the contest’s winning rack system valued at $25,000.

On Tuesday, June 19th, international attendees and exhibitors are invited to mix at InfoComm’s popular International Reception from 5:30 p.m.–7:00 p.m.