May 30, 2016

Manufacturer technical training, ABYC / NMEA training, demonstration boats, networking

For anyone in the marine electronics industry looking for the best selection of training and educational opportunities this year, the 2016 NMEA International Marine Electronics Conference & Expo offers more than any other event in North America.

Beginning its three-day run on September 20, 2016, at the Naples Grande Beach Resort, Naples, Florida, the event will also offer on-the-water demonstrations of the latest electronics products and valuable face-to-face time for dealers and manufacturers at the equipment and services expo, which will be spread over two afternoons and evenings.

The complete (preliminary) schedule is now posted, with specific times and hours, at www.expo.nmea.org. Here are just a few of the highlights of the event: 

50% off NMEA installer training

The following NMEA training classes are offered at a 50% discount with the purchase of a full conference registration ($395 for NMEA members).

• Tuesday 9/20—Advanced Marine Electronics Installer (AMEI) 

• Wednesday 9/21—Basic Marine Electronics Installer (MEI) 

• Thursday 9/22—NMEA 2000® Network Installer

New ABYC / NMEA combined training

Students can earn 3 certifications in 4 days.

• Monday 9/19—ABYC Marine Electrical Certification training

• Tuesday 9/20—ABYC Marine Electrical Review & Exam

• Wednesday 9/21—NMEA Basic Marine Electronics Installer (MEI) training and testing 

• Thursday 9/22—NMEA 2000 Network Installer training and testing

New advanced NMEA 2000 training

On Friday, September 23, NMEA will offer the new Advanced NMEA 2000 Network Installer course. This new hands-on advanced course focuses on installations, setup, and troubleshooting of complex NMEA 2000 networks set up inside the classroom.

Six new technical seminars

New training sessions this year include the NMEA OneNet Ethernet Standard, Wireless Networking on Vessels and at Marinas, Tackling Complex Audio Installations, Keys to a Solid Autopilot Installation, Digital Switching, and Vessel Installation Diagrams and Drawing Using Visio.

New business seminars

New for 2016 are business seminars covering QuickBooks and your best options for marine business insurance. Also new is an open forum on how to better manage your business.

New product expo

50+ leading manufacturers will showcase the latest in new technology and new marine electronics products at the 2016 NMEA Conference & Expo.

New NMEA Product Award categories

Recently revitalized, the NMEA Product Awards have been expanded this year to include three additional product categories—safety and security products, multimedia entertainment systems, and commercial marine electronics.

Manufacturer Demo Boats

Up to eight manufacturer demonstration boats will be giving live on-water demonstrations of new products. Hours have been extended into the evening to allow for better demonstrations of radar, night vision, and underwater lighting. Registrants must schedule demo rides with the specific manufacturers.

Manufacturer Training Sessions

Leading NMEA member manufacturers and exhibitors offer quality training through the NMEA Conference on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. This is a once-a-year opportunity to participate in multiple sessions!

See a preliminary schedule of events at www.expo.nmea.org. For more information, contact the NMEA main office at 410-975-9425 or email info@nmea.org.