The National Ethanol Conference (NEC) is the most widely attended executive-level conference for the ethanol industry. With numerous networking opportunities, more business meetings are conducted and contacts made at this conference than at any other ethanol event in the world. Past events have welcomed industry leaders from across the United States and 20 other countries. Since 1996, the Renewable Fuels Association’s NEC has been recognized as the ethanol conference for the latest trends, most timely information, as well as all the legislative and regulatory issues facing the industry.

This year’s meeting was held at the beautiful Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel. Day one had me covering a pump promotion with Pearson Fuesls, staff headshots, a women’s leadership reception, the PAC Auction, and a welcome reception. Day two found me photographing more headshots, the general session, keynote presentation by Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, a state of the industry report by President and CEO Geoff Cooper, and a networking reception. Day three included final staff headshots, various panel discussions, and a keynote address from Chief Agricultural Negotiator Ambassador Doug McKalip.

It has been my pleasure to work with the RFA over the last few years, capturing all the important highlights, marketing promotions, keynote speakers, staff headshots, team photos and every detail of this important annual event!