In Case You Missed It: Regional Conference Recap

This month, procurement staff from states in the Eastern and Midwestern regions gathered for education, networking and sharing of resources at their respective Regional Conferences. Baltimore’s Inner Harbor and the State of Maryland played host to the Eastern Region April 30-May 2, while the Midwestern Region convened in downtown Indianapolis May 7-9.

The conference agendas reflected the issues of most importance to state procurement professionals, customized to the educational priorities of each region. Issues like eProcurement, performance metrics and agency relations took center stage at both events with participants engaging in dynamic discussions to share solutions, best practices and lessons learned. The topic of staff development, retention and motivation was a big area of emphasis in discussion for the Eastern Region, where much of the time spent in the “What’s Your Solution” session focused on practical strategies to improve employee engagement and morale. The Midwestern Region spent a lot of time discussing change management and the unique challenge of working to support new strategies when so many different stakeholders are involved.

Participants said that “the level of participation and information sharing was outstanding,” emphasizing the amazing resources that NASPO Members are for one another.

Look forward to more opportunities for this type of learning and engagement at the pilot, joint Regional Conference in 2018!