Event Review By Brian Ethridge

With a jam-packed exhibit center featuring 88 booths, attendees had ample opportunities to connect, learn and exchange ideas.

Representing Catalyst Communications Network( publisher of Crane Hot Line) at the 2024 workshop was CEO Shae McBride, Vice President of Business Development Olga Dubinok, and Head of Content Brian Ethridge.

“ When you attend SC & RA events, it’ s not just another event on the calendar. It’ s a few days of new experiences, reconnecting with old friends, making new connections, engaging in heated discussions, sharing hugs, debating, learning and more. Heartland Communications was a longtime member with whom I shared these experiences, and I’ m proud to carry on that legacy under a new name— Catalyst Communications Network,” Dubinok said.

Day One Highlights

The workshop began with a captivating session led by JR Moran, MBA, from Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC. His presentation focused on the tower crane committee, emphasizing best practices and lessons learned. Attendees explored key aspects such as timelines,

dismantling procedures and updated standard operating protocols, all aimed at enhancing safety and operational efficiency.

“ One of the highlights for me was the incident reviews, such as during the tower crane committee meeting, which fostered resilience, innovation and learning opportunities,” Caleb Rosenberger, global account manager for Vita Inclinata Technologies, said.

The evening finished off with a first timers’ meeting, which welcomed over 100 newcomers to the event. The gathering is designed to help newcomers integrate into the community and maximize their experience at the workshop.

As one of the first timers who attended this gathering and not knowing what to expect, it was a bit intimidating as they passed the microphone around and asked everyone to introduce themselves. Some decided to sneak out to avoid being put on the spot; others really relished the limelight and promoted their services.

“ The ability for professionals to gather like this is impressive,” Rosenberger added.“ I

encourage everyone from field ops to executive management teams to get involved in industry events like these throughout the year.”

Day Two Highlights

During the safety education and training committee meeting, SC & RA introduced a new member resource: A Guide to Outrigger Pad Materials, Selection and Usage. This guide is said to offer members essential information on selecting supporting materials to minimize outrigger bearing loads, promoting safety and compliance on jobsites.

Randy Sever, chair of the crane & rigging group, used the platform to underscore the importance of the program’ s safety, technical and risk management sessions.

Two of the breakout sessions that stood out were the Success Stories & Strategies for a Winning Workforce and the Solid Foundation: Outrigger Pads, Materials & Selection. The former shared stories and advice from companies giving back to their communities and employees, while the latter educated attendees on outrigger pads and the need to

“ I appreciated being a part of the event and all the discussions with industry leaders who took the time to listen with an open mind and collaborate to improve our industry,” Catalyst Communications Network CEO Shae McBride said.

20 CRANE HOT LINE ® November 2024 • www. cranehotline. com