Registration is now open for the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) 82nd Annual Conference, to be held Feb. 25-28, 2019, in Indian Wells (Palm Springs), California, at the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells. The early bird rate is guaranteed through Jan. 28, and attendees are encouraged to book before this date. The AAMA Western Region 2019 Winter Summit immediately will follow the conference in the same location. Separate registration is required.

Keynote Speaker Kevin McCarthy, author of "BlindSpots – Why Good People Make Bad Choices," will teach how to identify blind spots and mitigate their impact at work and at home. As a result, those at his presentation will walk away more able to "make better, more ethical decisions and enjoy better communications and deeper relationships," according to McCarthy. He will present the conference's keynote address as well as lead a related roundtable discussion.

Another expert speaker will cover a wide breadth of topics, including the current skilled labor shortage and international trade. John Manzella, who will host a one-hour discussion open to all conference participants called "Labor, Skills and Workforce." Manzella also will lead an executive leadership roundtable about international business and trade policy in a session open to AAMA members only. Manzella previously presented on the economy at the AAMA 2018 Summer Conference.

Optional events at the conference will include the Rich and Diane Walker Cup golf tournament on the Indian Wells Golf Course, an ATV desert experience, a "Legends and Icons" tour, and a cooking demo with the hotel's culinary chef. In honor of Kim Flanary, AAMA also is hosting a 5K run/walk to honor his lifetime of leadership. Trophies will be awarded for runners and walkers in first, second and third places.

Conference participants are invited to the annual awards banquet the night of Feb. 26, which has the classic Hollywood theme "Lights, Camera, AAMA!"

More information about AAMA and its activities can be found via the AAMA website, https://aamanet.org.