Charleston region to host homeland security technology conference

CHARLESTON, SC (October 29, 2004) – On December 2, 2004, ThinkTEC will bring focus to one of the fastest growing segments of technology development by presenting the Homeland Security Innovation Conference. The event, scheduled for 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. aboard the U.S.S. Yorktown in Mount Pleasant, will showcase the companies, agencies and economic potential of this unique technology market.

Conference attendees will learn from corporate leaders, military and government officials, science and security experts. Throughout the full day conference, leading experts in the area of homeland security will present topics including available business opportunities, Department of Homeland Security priorities and funding, the focus of marine and port security efforts and new technology developments and training resources. The day will close with a networking reception including a first-hand look at technology demonstrations and exhibits.

“One of ThinkTEC’s primary goals is to facilitate the growth of high-tech and knowledge-based business clusters in the Charleston region,” explains Charles Van Rysselberge, President and CEO of the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce. “The opportunity to bring focus to such a timely topic that affects businesses on a local and regional level is paramount to positioning Charleston as a model for such activity.”

Representatives from companies and agencies dedicated to homeland security efforts in the Charleston regional market will participate in a variety of educational sessions. The topics covered will demonstrate the impact these companies have on the national agenda, the economic potential of the market and the partnerships between government and private industry. Sessions will feature
local, regional and national experts from organizations such as SPAWAR, CIVATAS Group, Booz Allen Hamilton Inc. and the United States Coast Guard among others.

“We have an untapped potential in businesses and entrepreneurs on both a local and regional level when it comes to anti-terrorism technology development,” details Danny Kassis, ThinkTEC Chairman and District Manager Metro Charleston, SCANA Corporation. “The opportunity to highlight potential alliances and innovative products will strengthen the impact these businesses can have on the homeland security market.”

Attendees must pre-register for the event and can beginning signing-in at 7:15 a.m. Cost for the event is $225 for Chamber members and $265 for non-members if registering before October 29. After this date, registration is $250 for members and $295 for non-members. The rate for government or military personnel is $195. Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are also still available. For additional information, please contact Pennie Bingham, ThinkTEC Director at 843.805.3073 or e-mail: [email protected] or visit http://hsc.thinktec.org.

ThinkTEC, an initiative of The Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, is an ongoing effort to accelerate technological growth to create and sustain a perpetual innovation economy for the Charleston tri-county region and state. With more than 2,500 members, the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce serves as the catalyst to maximize the power of business for the quality growth, economic development of the Charleston region and make our members successful.