Atlantic City: It’s a Great Day Here

The 2024 United Convention and Expo heads to America’s playground for a little work and a lot of fun. 

photos courtesy of Visit Atlantic City

This year, more than 2,000 vertical-transportation (VT) professionals will be joining the more than 27 million people who visit Atlantic City, New Jersey, each year for the 2024 United Convention & Expo on September 23-36 at the Atlantic City Convention Center. 

With ocean views on one side and shopping on the other, Atlantic City’s world-famous Boardwalk opened in 1870 and has since become an American icon. Known as the seaside gaming and resort capital of the East Coast, Atlantic City has just about everything: world-renowned casino resorts and hotels, big name restaurants featuring famous chefs, unique attractions, headline entertainment, luxurious spas, championship golf, elite shopping and more. And with more than US$1.7 billion in investments in recent years, Atlantic City is more appealing than ever.^[1]

United Convention & Expo

United is hosted every four years by the National Association of Elevator Contractors (NAEC), in collaboration with the Canadian Elevator Contractors Association (CECA), Elevator U and the International Association of Elevator Consultants (IAEC). This year is extra special for NAEC, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary at the event. 

As usual, education will take center stage at the 2024 United Convention with an educational program featuring enlightening sessions conducted by industry experts. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights, explore emerging trends, deepen their knowledge and secure continuing-education credits. But don’t worry, there are plenty of social events planned, as networking opportunities are always a priority of the event. 

With a dynamic lineup of more than 210 exhibits, the United Expo serves as an unparalleled platform for showcasing cutting-edge technology, innovative solutions and industry advancements. Exhibitors from around the globe will display their latest products, services and initiatives, offering attendees a comprehensive view of the evolving landscape. Exhibiting company products range from commercial, residential and freight elevators, accessibility products, dumbwaiters, escalators, business services and more. 

United Convention Highlights

Monday, September 23

Official Golf Tournament — 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Seaview Golf Bay Course, opened in 1914, offers a Scottish-links feel along with ample views of the picturesque coastline. The location offers an unforgettable world-class golfing experience combining history and beauty. 

United In Deed — 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. In honor of NAEC’s 75th anniversary, the association will launch United In Deed, a partnership with the nonprofit organization Feed My Starving Children, giving members a chance to give back with a meal-packing event that will help feed children all over the world. Lunch will be provided by NAEC.

Welcome Reception, hosted by IAEC — 6:30-8:30 p.m. IAEC will kick off United 2024 with an opportunity to connect with old friends, colleagues and future partners. The welcome event will commemorate a key moment in our industry’s history: the safety of the elevator from the 1854 World’s Fair. The event provides an opportunity to “toast to the inventors who elevated our way of life” and those who continue to shape it.

Tuesday, September 24 

Opening Breakfast — 7:30-9 a.m. A casual breakfast sponsored by The Peelle Co. and ACCESS Elevator & Escalator Supply before a full day of education, networking and more.

Keynote Luncheon, hosted by Elevator U — 11:45 a.m.-1:15 p.m. The keynote luncheon is sure to enhance your elevator knowledge, as Dr. Lee Gray, VT expert and historian, provides a journey through the history of elevators.

Wednesday, September 25

Reception, hosted by CECA — 5-6:30 p.m. CECA will give guests an opportunity to trade the bright lights of Atlantic City for the glowing hues of the northern lights for an event that celebrates the heart and soul of Canada. Attendees can taste the diverse flavors of Canadian cuisine and experience the rich tapestry of Canadian traditions, the country’s vibrant culture and its warm hospitality. 

Thursday, September 26

Dregs Party, hosted by NAEC — 7-9:30 p.m. The famous — and infamous — event will, this year, transport attendees to the Wild West with themed décor, games, live music and performances. See you there, partner. 

More specific information and details can be found at United Convention.

EXHIBITORS’ LIST

Reference

[1] acnj.gov/page/about-atlantic-city