Report from the Southwest Supply Management Conference

I have just returned from three days of excellent programs offered at the 62^nd Annual Southwest Supply Management Conference. We had several pre-conference seminars on Wednesday. I was a monitor to a CPSM review class presented by Pat Woods. This is the new credentialing from The Institute for Supply Management.

In the afternoon, I went to Michael McGinnis’ C.P.M./CPSM Study and Test Taking Skills Seminar. This seminar was designed to help you focus your study and test taking skills. Your success is related to: well-organized study strategy and developing time management skills. I enjoyed this class, however I wonder if some people are just born to be good test takers. I have always had a problem of walking in to the test center and my mind going blank, that is after a sleepless night and jittery nerves.

The Marriott Dallas/Plano at Legacy Town Center handled the conference well. We had excellent food and service. I am the old meat and potato person that does not like to experiment with food, however managed to enjoy the special dishes.

Our closing speaker on Friday was author Lewis R. Timberlake. Lewis’ credentials match his reputation as a “Specialist in Success.” He paused in his speech and said “I lost my train of thought.” I was sitting at the head table next to the podium and luckily I did not try to help as it was a built in pause. It was an effort to see if you felt for a speaker that actually lost his place in his speech.

Mark your calendars for the 63rd annual conference October 7-9 at the Marriott, Dallas/Plano at Legacy Town Center. Look forward to seeing some of you there.