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- Category: Industry News
With the Labor Day festivities coming to an end and the kids starting a new academic year, school’s almost back in session for the industry, too: The 2024 CD/NLA Show is just around the corner, and we have some world-class education ready for you!
Join us October 13-16 at the beautiful Gaylord National just outside Washington, D.C., for all the nonstop networking, animated nightlife, and, of course, can’t-miss education you’ve come to expect from our shows. As always, thanks to our generous Title Sponsor Volvo.
The incredibly dedicated CD/NLA Education Committee has been hard at work to deliver you the timeliest, most relevant sessions at this year’s show. With the help of co-chairs Jason Sharenow of Broadway Elite Worldwide and Karl Guenther of Statement Limousine, we have put together a slate of 11 sessions and seminars to arm you with the knowledge you need to help your company thrive. This year, we’ve continued our efforts to bring you the best speakers from both within and outside the industry.
Starting Sunday at 11:30 a.m., we’re kicking things off with a pair of timely tech-themed sessions. First, we’re offering Protecting Your Business Against Real-World Cybersecurity Threats, which is designed to safeguard you, your affiliates, and client base from the very real possibility of cyberattacks. Then at 1:00 p.m., moderator Athena Grimm of BAC Transportation and AI expert Thomas Wilform from SimpleTech Solutions for Navigating the Road Ahead: AI Applications in the Limo Industry. This session will explore how groundbreaking AI technology can automate customer service, streamline sales functions, and optimize driver performance. You’ll gain practical knowledge on integrating AI with existing systems, customizing interactions, and leveraging this emerging technology.
Also at 1:00 p.m. is the Inside Scoop: Behind the Scenes with the Education Committee. Moderator Sharenow will be joined by Doug Schwartz of Executive Ground Transportation, Moe Bouayad of Crown Worldwide Transportation, Erica Bugbee of ExecuStar World Class Transportation, Scott Woodruff of Majestic Limo & Coach, and Sarah Mercer of the NLA for an open conversation about how the Show Education Committee puts together content for events. Learn about the process for creating sessions, planning ideas, picking speakers, and more. Join this session to share your ideas, ask questions, and help advise for future events.
We follow that up with a pair of sessions at 2:30 p.m. that will close out our first day of education. First is Managing Generational Differences in the Workforce, courtesy of outside expert Lisa Johnson of Operations, Inc., a leading firm in HR consulting. In a multigenerational workplace, adapting to varying communication styles and expectations is essential. This session will explore practical strategies for bridging generational gaps by focusing on shared objectives. Learn how to build stronger professional relationships, foster collaboration, and enhance team performance by understanding and respecting different perspectives.
Simultaneously, we’re pleased to present Luxury on Wheels: Building a Premium Brand and Cultivating Loyal Customers. In today’s competitive market, building a strong brand and fostering customer loyalty are crucial for success. Moderated by Andy Hernandez of CTA Worldwide, this session will equip operators with practical strategies to create a memorable customer experience that not only attracts new clients but also turns them into loyal, repeat customers. The expert panel includes Cody Belanger of Sky Coach & Limousine, Kelly Devlin of Premier Transportation, Robyn Goldenberg of Strategy Leaders, and Gus Ortis of Executive Transportation.
“In every part of the conference, I was able to take valuable information away for the growth of my company,” says Devin Waring of Galleria Limousine.
Our second day in town also features a packed schedule of learning opportunities for you. We have a bright-and-early session at 8:15 for the morning go-getters. Don’t worry if you’re not a morning person, since Buffalo Limousine’s coffee sponsorship will ensure you start the day with your cuppa joe.
Start off the morning by discovering the keys to building and managing successful affiliate partnerships with Mastering the Affiliate Game: Tips and Tools. Moderator Tiffany Hinton of MOTEV will cover essential strategies for both new and established operators, including financial considerations, leveraging technology, and best practices for developing a robust affiliate network. Join a panel of experts, including Jay Bowers of AJL International, Jason Dornhoffer Unite Private Car, Nour Elotmani of Destination MCO, and Faith Glasgow of Peak Limousine, as they share advice and best practices to optimize your affiliate relationships for business growth.
Then at 9:30 a.m. we have our Emerging Operators Roundtable, featuring Guenther and Hernandez. This interactive session will allow you to connect with your peers and explore the unique business challenges and successes that come with being a newer operator. Share experiences, exchange strategies, and gain valuable perspectives to help navigate the early stages of your business journey.
Concurrently, we’re pleased to offer a session for more experienced operators, Securing and Executing Large Group Bookings. Moderator Hinton will be joined by Jamisha Breland of AMAREN, Erin Digioia of Windy City Limousine & Bus, and Joey Mills of Olympus Car & Coach to discuss making the most out of bus and coach work.
“Kudos to the CD/NLA Show. From the educational programs, State of the Industry to the show floor, everything was well orchestrated, professional, and top notch!“ says Mike Rose of My Limousine Service.
On Tuesday, we begin at 8:15 a.m. with The Essential Recipe: Ingredients for Building a Safe and Secure Limo Operation, with a powerhouse duo of Daniel Tomlinson of Lancer Insurance and Jeffrey Petrunak of National Interstate Insurance lending their expertise to help your chauffeurs improve their road skills. Then at 9:45 a.m. join us for a Personality/Relationship Management session presented by Nicole Banks of I AM Resource, a consultation firm that offers a range of services to facilitate business growth and development. Banks was tremendously well-received at our last Vegas show, so we’re thrilled to have her in National Harbor Also at 9:45 is a roundtable designed to advance your sales techniques, customer engagement strategies, and industry-specific insights that will transform your approach and drive your success. Moderated by Schwartz, Bouayad, and Guenther, Become a Super Salesperson in Retail Ground Transportation will help you stand out as a top-tier salesperson, which requires more than just charisma and product knowledge.
On Wednesday morning, we conclude our educational component with a pair of 90-minute deep-dive sessions that will build on topics covered on Tuesday morning. At 8:45, we’re pleased to welcome back Banks for a more thorough look into Personality/Relationship Management, followed at 10:30 with an intense and informative look at safety. Stay tuned for more details as the event gets closer.
So, what are you waiting for? Every session of our world-class education is included when you register for the CD/NLA Show. Our Early Bird pricing expires Friday, September 6, so you have limited time to save some serious cash off the registration price. We’ve also secured a room block at $259/night at the fabulous Gaylord National. Don’t miss out!
[09.03.24]
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- Category: Industry News
DH2 CEO Nancy Vargas
DH2 Chauffeured Transportation, based in Jamaica, N.Y., is excited to announce its national certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) by WBEC Metro NY Inc., a regional partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). This prestigious certification is widely recognized as the benchmark for validating women-owned businesses in the United States.
The WBENC certification process is rigorous, involving a comprehensive evaluation of the business and a thorough site inspection. This process ensures that the business is at least 51 percent owned, managed, and controlled by one or more women, and that it maintains the necessary business structure, strategic planning, and operational implementation.
As an MWBE-certified company, DH2 embodies a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion among its partners and employees. The company’s philosophy, “Good is not enough. Excellence in everything we do” is demonstrated through its dedication to employees, partners, and the community.
DH2 CEO Nancy Vargas expressed her excitement about this significant achievement.
"Receiving the WBENC certification is a remarkable milestone for DH2,” she said. “It not only validates our hard work and commitment but also opens up a wealth of new opportunities for us to grow and connect with major corporations. We are eager to leverage these new avenues to further expand our business and strengthen our presence in the industry."
DH2 Chauffeured Transportation is a Latina Woman Owned business. Vargas, a native New Yorker with a corporate background, was driven to build DH2’s infrastructure through her entrepreneurial spirit, making significant strides in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Under her leadership, DH2 has achieved MWBE Certification with New York City, New York State, the Port Authority of NY/NJ, and Nassau County. She has expanded the business into new market segments, including airline flight crew shuttle service, government contracting, construction mobility, and worldwide service. Nancy has also implemented cutting-edge technology to ensure the highest efficiency within the organization.
As an active community leader, Vargas is the immediate past president of the JFK Rotary Club and is a member of the JFK and Long Island Hispanic Chamber. In the industry, she co-chairs the National Limousine Association Women Leadership Council and is a member of The Long Island Transportation Association and The Limousine Association of New Jersey. Her accolades include CEO of the Year, Transportation Woman of the Year, and Business Woman of the Year.
Visit dh2limo.com for more information.
[09.03.24]
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- Category: Industry News
The Greater Miami Limousine and Bus Association (GMLBA), a newly formed organization representing the chauffeured transportation industry in Miami, has officially launched.
GMLBA President Oguzhan “Oz” Akgun
Led by industry veteran Oguzhan “Oz” Akgun, founder of Limo Miami, the GMLBA is dedicated to addressing the evolving challenges facing the industry, including regulatory changes, technological advancements, and changing customer expectations.
With a strong membership base of more than 75 operators, suppliers, manufacturers, and affiliates representing over 300 permitted vehicles, the GMLBA is poised to make a significant impact on the local market. The association's inaugural meeting was held on August 13 at The Miami Beach EDITION, and attracted a large turnout, demonstrating the growing demand for such an organization.
Akgun was elected president and brings a wealth of experience and a passion for driving positive change to the GMLBA. In his inaugural address, Akgun emphasized his commitment to advancing the industry and ensuring the highest standards of service. He outlined four key initiatives:
- Advocacy: GMLBA will work closely with local and state governments to advocate for policies that benefit the private car transportation industry, ensuring that members have a strong voice in legislative matters.
- Safety & Compliance: GMLBA will prioritize safety and regulatory compliance by providing members with the latest training techniques and resources, helping them stay ahead in an ever-evolving landscape.
- Sustainability: As environmental concerns grow, the association is committed to exploring and implementing sustainable practices within the industry, including the adoption of eco-friendly technologies.
- Professionalism & Education: GMLBA will elevate professionalism by offering continuous educational programs, certification opportunities, and best practices workshops, empowering members to excel in their roles.
The GMLBA is dedicated to informing, educating, and professionalizing its members, ensuring the continued growth and prosperity of the chauffeured transportation sector in Miami.
Visit gmlba.org for more information.
[09.03.24]