January 30 - The 2012 Annual Conference of the Specialized Carriers & Rigging Association (SC&RA), April 17-21, at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines, Austin, Texas, USA, features a program that includes educational sessions, networking events and committee mee

The Annual Conference is expected to bring together more than 600 industry professionals to network, learn and engage.

Among the featured highlights are the products fair with 70 exhibitors; the Rigging and Hauling Jobs of the Year Competitions; the Annual Awards and Recognition Dinner; the SC&RA Foundation's Boogie, Boots'n Bling Gala; golf, tennis and fun run events; the President's Reception; the Acoustic Alchemy Guitar Reception and special receptions for international members, first-time attendees and spouses.

An impressive roster of speakers will educate and entertain attendees during special sessions throughout the Conference.

A panel of insurance industry experts will provide an explanation about how to assess the risks associated with any given contract and ultimately determine whether to accept the terms. The second part of the session will provide a "contract checklist" of items for both transportation and crane and rigging companies, including various additional insured endorsements and indemnity agreements. Speakers include Jeff Haynes, national practice leader, USI Insurance Services LLCRobert Moore, chief legal officer, NBISBill Smith, vice president, Claims and Risk Management, NBIS; and Dave Wittwer, Vice President, The Buckner Company, Inc.

Dr. Martin Regalia, vice president & chief economist of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, returns to the Annual Conference after a two-year hiatus to report of the current economic climate and his projections for 2012 and beyond. He will address stimulus spending, global construction and the general posture of the credit.

Until March 9, early-bird registration fees are available. Visit www.scranet.org/2012-annual-conference to review the programme, learn more about the hotel, and register as an attendee or exhibitor.

www.scranet.org