#ACCE24 Annual Convention: Dallas Highlights
Dallas was the place to be last week, hosting the Major League Baseball (MLB) All-Star Game Southeastern Conference (SEC) Media Days, and of course the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executive (ACCE) 2024 Annual Convention! Fans and festivities were in full swing as thousands flocked to the DFW metroplex to see their heroes, tell their stories, and find ways to better serve their communities!
Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) represented all week with Ryan Evans, Executive DIrector, and Kyle Sheldon, Southern Regional Director, both being on site. Many chamber attendees participated in MLB All-Star activities and some even took selfies with legends like Nick Saban. However, the main focus of the ACCE Convention was clear: Evolve!
The chamber, economic development, and association space is one of the few industries where collaboration is celebrated. In this industry, research and development is welcomed and encouraged, but with a twist. While R&D in the business world is crucial to the evolution of relevancy, here R&D means “rip off and duplication” and is acceptable—and a best practice! If something works well for one community, sharing and replicating it can strengthen others. It may sound silly, but this community of professionals truly shares ideas and supports each other for the betterment of the businesses they represent.
With this attitude, CICE set out to share our work with ACCE attendees as our sounding board. We participated in sessions ranging from workforce development and retention to the incorporation of artificial intelligence to the inclusivity of DEI, engaging in forward-thinking conversations about the need for evolution.
Texas has traditionally leaned towards oil and gas in energy discussions, but it was encouraging to have open-minded conversations about energy priorities—especially given that Texas is the number one state in the nation for both solar and wind energy production. Recognizing that security and sustainability require a shift in the energy landscape, We discussed the need for all industry sectors to work together for energy independence. As technology in wind, solar, energy storage, and electric vehicles continues to evolve, we must remain open to multifaceted solutions to enhance global grid reliability. It was refreshing to unite with industry professionals from across North and Central America. Texas acknowledges that grid reliability issues are not unique to this region; our energy needs are outpacing supply, and innovation is necessary. At CICE, we are committed to staying on the forefront of energy inclusion.
As we nurture these new relationships and continue the conversations started in Dallas, our mission remains steadfast. At CICE, we will continue working to accelerate the transition to a more reliable clean energy economy, amplifying the voice of economic leaders and building the business case for clean energy investment and innovation globally.
Check out a quick video recap.
