SUPPLIER DIVERSITY CONNECTION Presented in partnership with Walter Kaitz Foundation Thursday, Oct. 21 Morial Convention Center 2-6 pm

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This unique program was created to open up new opportunities for women- and minority-owned business enterprises (WMBEs) interested in serving the engineering community in the cable telecommunications industry.

2-2:45 pm		Educational Session/Workshop Welcome Remarks Michelle A. Ray, Senior Director, Programs & Strategic Initiatives, The Walter Kaitz Foundation Growing Your Small Business into a Powerhouse: A Case Study The Comcast/SHI success story is one in growing number of cases that have paired thriving and small suppliers with big cable juggernauts like Comcast. Hear how one small company was able to grow their business with Comcast from software, to hardware, to a major value added joint venture with Microsoft, and is now pursuing opportunities in the professional services space. Attendees will hear how structure, diversity management teams and business owners alike are all responsible for creating the culture and visibility that is essential for such a story to be possible. Moderator: Helen Dimsdale, Senior Director, Communications & Public Affairs, National Cable & Telecommunications Association Panelists: John F. Kist, Executive Director, Procurement, Comcast Communications Maggie O’Kane, Account Executive, SHI
3-4:15 pm		Diverse Supplier Exhibit Hall Tour Join procurement officers, MSOs, & members of the SCTE Board of Directors for a guided tour of exhibiting certified WMBEs who are building successful relationships through partnerships in the cable industry. At the conclusion of the tour, participants are welcome to walk the exhibit floor prior to the start of the Networking Reception at 5 pm.
5-6 pm		Networking Reception This reception provides an opportunity for WMBEs, procurement officers, and engineers to engage in interactive conversations and skill-building exercises in a social setting.