EFI announces Connect conference keynote speakers

EFI has announced the keynote speakers for its 11th annual Connect users' conference taking place April 18-21 at the Wynn Las Vegas – Robert Tapella and Joan B. Davidson. The complete schedule of over 120 break-out sessions is also now available online at www.efi.com/connect, including discussions and training opportunities for EFI Monarch, Pace, PrintSmith, Logic and PSI. Additionally, product demonstrations and educational sessions will cover EFI Fiery, Vutek and Jetrion products.

Robert Tapella is the nation's 25th Public Printer and serves as the chief executive officer of the US Government Printing Office. Responsible for more than USD $1 billion in print-related revenue, Tapella will share his print industry insight based on his experience overseeing production and distribution of information products and services for all three branches of the Federal Government. He will address the conference on opening night, Sunday April 18.

On the morning of April 20, attendees will hear from Joan B. Davidson, group president of Sheridan Publications Services at The Sheridan Group, and recent recipient of the prestigious NAPL Soderstrom Award. Davidson will share a wealth of in-depth knowledge of operational efficiency improvements gleaned from industry experience that includes her recent tenure as chairman of the NAPL board of directors.  

‘We're excited for Connect attendees to hear from these two great industry insiders, and to take away valuable insights and lessons they can apply in their own roles,’ said Frank Mallozzi, senior vice president of worldwide sales and marketing, EFI. ‘Keynote presentations are just one part of the Connect experience – leaders from around the globe can attend in-depth educational sessions, test drive the latest EFI products and industry vendor offerings, voice their opinions at user group meetings, discuss industry trends, and network with peers, all while enjoying the luxurious Wynn Las Vegas at a special rate of $169 a night. Connect is an excellent opportunity for print providers to position their business for the months and quarters to come.’

This year's conference will also host the first Connect Auction. The live auction will be held during the sponsors' reception on April 19, and will feature over 50 items including everything from add-on software and consulting services to a new management system. Most items will be offered with a very low reserve or with no reserve at all. Auction items will be provided by EFI and participating partners and a portion of all proceeds will go to the Print & Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF).