From May 15-19, nearly 300 pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape professionals—including scientists, professors, CEOs, VPs and sales professionals—gathered at the Mandalay Bay Las Vegas Convention Center for the Pressure Sensitive Tape Council’s (PSTC) Tape Summit 2017. This annual industry-focused event provides segmented and flexible learning opportunities for attendees to formulate the most effective knowledge-building experience possible.

Information from the PSTC’s recently commissioned research report, which identifies biases, behaviors and decision drivers influencing tape usage in the building and construction industry, was a focal point during the event. A poster presentation and other takeaway materials focused on tape usage in building and construction were available.

According to PSTC President Michel Merkx, it was important to provide attendees with information related to the building and construction industry, as the research conveyed that this as a high growth area for PSA tape. “As we analyze how tape is perceived in a wide range of industries, the Tape Summit is growing into an ideal venue to share information and knowledge about tape use in these industries,” he said.

Education

The Tape Summit offered two individual educational courses: “Adhesives/Advanced Technology of PSA Tape” and “The Fundamentals of PSA Tape.” A dedicated volunteer faculty, all of whom bring years of practical industry experience and knowledge to their teaching, presented courses covering all aspects of PSA tape manufacturing and design.

In addition, a Regulatory Summit provided relevant information focused on policies, regulations and laws that affect businesses and the PSA tape industry as a whole. During this half-day session, speakers addressed Prop 65, exposure testing, lifecycle assessment and environmental regulations.

Networking

Along with providing educational sessions, the Tape Summit also included a networking forum for PSTC members to meet with customers and suppliers. The Exhibitor Showcase allowed 54 exhibitors the opportunity to feature their latest innovations and products. Eight of those exhibiting companies chose to participate in the Innovation Poster Session, which provided additional educational information about their company projects.

Technical Sessions

The Tape Summit also included Tech 40, signifying the 40th year of presenting technical information about PSA tape in a public forum. The session provided attendees multiple opportunities to learn about economic trends, specific applications and interactions among components of tape products, as well as next-generation products.

Keynotes

One of the highlights during Tech 40 was a keynote presentation, “Culture That Rocks!,” from Business Culture Catalyst and former Hard Rock International Executive Jim Knight. Knight’s energetic and thought-provoking presentation was fitting for a celebratory year.

A Welcome Reception took place on May 16, with Tech 40 Chair Ron Horwitz speaking about the impact that former PSTC Executive Director Glen Anderson, who died in April of this year after a long battle with cancer, made not only within the association, but in the industry as a whole. All in attendance raised a glass to toast the memory of this industry powerhouse. ASI

Tape Summit 2018 is scheduled for May 7-11 at the Hilton Minneapolis in Minnesota. For more information, visit www.pstc.org.