AIM Global exercises its voice

As a follow-up to the Senate RFID Caucus held in July, AIM Global, the industry association recognized as the worldwide authority on automatic identification and mobility, hosted its third annual RFID Executive Summit and Legislative Fly-In last week.

At this landmark event sixty industry leaders from around the world, including vendor executives, end users, and leading university professionals gathered to discuss and debate strategic issues facing the AIM industry. Taking advantage of the location and the industry expertise in attendance, the educational program was followed by coordinated industry visits to Capitol Hill.

‘The Executive Summit and Legislative Fly-In has been the best event I've attended this year. AIM really out-did themselves by organizing over 40 small group meetings with Senate and House staffers,’ commented attendee Dr Richard Billo, Associate Dean of Engineering Research, University of Texas at Arlington.

The program focused on radio frequency identification technology and highlighted strategic policy and technical issues facing the overall AIM market. Specifically, the group discussed privacy and security issues influencing acceptance of RFID technology, latest market analysis, current state of RFID standards, and the latest feedback from key users of the technology. Interactive discussions of the issues and peer networking opportunities were unique to this event.

Capping off the event was the opportunity for attendees to visit Congressional and Senate offices of nearly 40 legislators from 14 key states on Capitol Hill. ‘Early feedback on the visits has been extremely positive,’ said AIM Global president Dan Mullen. ‘We are greatly encouraged that this effort is filling a vital need for our industry to speak out in an organized fashion. The AIM Global Education and Public Policy committee is a major driver behind this effort and we continue to see this member activity grow. Look for more of this type of effort from AIM Global.’

The invitation-only meeting was held in Washington, DC from 1:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, 7 September 2006 and 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. on Friday, 8 September 2006.