For the short time I’ve been at LeaseTeam, all I’ve heard about is how fun and insightful NEFA conferences can be and the 2016 NEFA Equipment Finance Summit sure did deliver! Not only was it a great opportunity to dive headfirst into the Equipment Finance Industry, but it was also an amazing opportunity to network with peers and clients that I will get the pleasure of working with.
Here are some highlights from the Summit:
Tuesday was filled with the arrivals of conference attendees, and quick meet and greets at the AMAZING Hotel Monteleone (which is a favorite among distinguished authors such as Ernest Hemmingway, Truman Capote and John Grisham). The place was truly exquisite and within walking distance to amazing food and entertainment in the French Quarter district and on the ever famous Bourbon Street.
LeaseTeam was recommended to attend K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen for dinner and we had the most amazing time with fantastic service; highly recommend if you are ever in the New Orleans area. We had the pleasure of attending dinner with some industry folks and got to experience the flavor of New Orleans (what a great night!).
Wednesday started with an early morning to head out to Lakewood Golf Club to play a friendly scramble with fellow conference attendees, all to benefit the Chris Walker Education Fund. Chris was a long time CLFP and NEFA member that we remember at each conference to raise money to help those that wish to further their education or educational goals within the Equipment Finance industry. This speaks volumes to how close this industry’s professionals are and how much they truly care about each other. The night finished with a wonderful opening reception filled with great conversation and karaoke.
Thursday was a big day of break-out sessions and fun times in the exhibit halls at the booths. We gained insights on the marketplace today with the growth of alternative financing, as well as the increased use of technologies to help streamline business processes and gain insights utilizing enhanced reporting measures to better service clients and grow portfolios.
Friday was a short day, as we wrapped up some final conversations at Booth 40 and headed to the airport reminiscing on our fun, educational week.
After my first conference, I am more than thrilled to have chosen to work in the incredible industry of Equipment Finance. The people and the events are definitely second to none!
