A record-high 2,600 people are expected to attend the 2014 NBAA Schedulers & Dispatchers Conference, which opened this morning at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans and runs through Friday. “We are thrilled by the momentum this show has gained through the years,” said Mike Nichols, NBAA vice president for operational excellence and professional development. “This conference is always high-energy, and this year’s exhibitors and attendees are clearly excited to be in New Orleans to get down to business, share ideas and learn from one another."

This year’s theme is “Take the Lead,” and keynote speaker Betty Shotton, the CEO of LiftOff Leadership, delved into the possibilities and obstacles faced in business aviation careers during this morning’s opening general session. Dozens of other interactive education sessions are planned throughout the conference.

“NBAA’s Schedulers & Dispatchers Conference provides a unique opportunity for business aviation professionals from all areas of flight departments and charter operations to stay up to date on timely operations issues, as well as visit with 495 exhibitors,” said Jo Damato, NBAA’s director, educational development and strategy, and staff liaison to the Schedulers & Dispatchers Committee.

The S&D Conference, now in its 25th year, also offers attendees a chance to participate in the Conference Training Initiative (CTI). Fourteen sessions qualify for the CTI, with topics ranging from scheduling essentials, risk-assessment subjects and tax topics that a scheduler or dispatcher needs for continued professional development. Participants who meet the program requirements receive a training-acknowledgement letter from NBAA.

Next year’s Schedulers & Dispatchers Conference will be held from February 3 to 6 in San Jose, Calif.