Beaulieu to Keynote CSIA Conference

The Control System Integrators Association (CSIA, www.controlsys.org) has announced the guest speakers for its 2011 Executive Conference, April 27-30, in Orlando.

Economist Alan Beaulieu, president of the Institute for Trend Research, and an Automation World columnist, will forecast the next two years of opportunity for control system integrators at the opening plenary session, Thursday, April 28. Beaulieu’s extensive understanding of business cycles and his ability to explain the implications have made him one of CSIA’s highest rated speakers, the organization said.

Jeff Zaslow, columnist for “The Wall Street Journal” will speak about life’s transitions and the unforgettable moments that captivate the world’s attention. Zaslow collaborated with Carnegie Mellon University Professor Randy Pausch, author of “The Last Lecture,” and U.S. Airways Capt. Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, author of “Highest Duty,” on their best-selling books. Zaslow’s presentation will be Saturday, April 30.

The conference, “Inspiring Performance,” features additional speakers on a wide range of topics related to business practices and market opportunities. In all, 17 CSIA members will share their knowledge, including:
•    Steve Birket, Birket Engineering, who will share insights from 25 years of experience with industrial automation for theme park rides, pyrotechnics and Broadway shows.  
•    Attorney Mark Voigtmann, Baker & Daniels, who will address the legal impact of various automation standards and how they interact or contradict one another.