What benefits can I expect from attending HIGH-TECC 2008?
Our theme this year is Bridging the Gap... and Seizing the Opportunity. There are many gaps in our industry and, as a whole, we need to work on closing these gaps in order to make a profound difference in the profitability and viability of independent insurance agents. This year's HIGH-TECC conference is specifically designed to help you explore these gaps and maximize the opportunities that are available to agents, insurance companies, and vendors that are willing to look forward. This year will be all out “hands on.” We’ll have lots of “tech toys” to play with and you will actually learn how to use them in your agency. You will leave HIGH-TECC with practical ideas on how to integrate the tools as effectively as possible into your agency to help you "bridge the gap" between you and your clients. [Top]
Why does HIGH-TECC limit the number of attendees?
HIGH-TECC is kept small by design. You should not expect just another industry convention. We don’t allow vendors to have any booths. With a smaller number of attendees everyone has more of an opportunity to sit down and talk with fellow agents, industry leaders, and various vendors. The program is designed to encourage attendees to get the most out of your time spent in Vail. Because of the small number of attendees you will have a rare opportunity to talk with and learn from people who are making a difference in our industry. [Top]
What should I wear?
HIGH-TECC fosters a relaxed atmosphere. In general, you won’t find any suits and ties at HIGH-TECC. Casual attire is generally worn during the meetings and business casual to the receptions. However, the conference rooms (and evenings in Vail) can be a bit cool so you might need a light jacket or sweater. Most restaurants in Vail are casual to business casual as well. [Top]
How do I get from Denver to Vail?
From Denver International Airport, Vail is a scenic two-hour drive.
Follow I-70 Westbound to Vail, Exit 176.
Enter roundabout, exit onto Vail Rd.
Enter next roundabout, exit onto S. Frontage Road W.
Follow S. Frontage Road W. to W. Lionshead Circle, and turn left.
Or you may wish to take a shuttle from DIA to Vail. For rates and reservations please contact Colorado Mountain Express at 1-800-525-6363 or via their website. Reservations are suggested, and can be made online or by phone. [Top]
Do I need to rent a car?
Shops and restaurants are generally within walking distance from the hotel. There is also a free Vail transit system that picks up at the Vail Marriott and runs approximately every 10 minutes. The shuttle service is generally available from 8 a.m. through 1:00 a.m. If you plan to venture or sightsee outside of Vail, you will need a car. Should you choose to rent a car, there is a parking garage available at the Vail Marriott. Prices are based on a 24-hour cycle with in and out privileges. Please contact the hotel directly for further information on parking and rates. [Top]
Do I need to make a reservation early for the Marriott?
Yes! While HIGH-TECC does have a room block at the hotel, Vail in July is a popular destination for tourists and the hotel tends to fill up quickly, so the earlier you can make your reservations, the better. You can contact the hotel directly by calling their nationwide toll-free number 1-800-648-0720. Mention that you are attending HIGH-TECC. The daily room rate is $175 plus taxes. Reservations must be booked no later than June 18, 2008, to guarantee group rate. Please consult with the hotel directly for their cancellation policy. [Top]
Is Vail “kid friendly”? What is there to do in Vail?
HIGH-TECC is a great opportunity to incorporate a family vacation. Vail offers many activities for individuals and families — horseback riding, golf, white water rafting, and biking just to name a few! More information can be found by contacting the Concierge’s desk at the Vail Marriott via phone 970-477-5660 or via email at vailconcierge@marriott.com. [Top]
I am bringing my family to Vail this year and am wondering if any childcare services are available?
While childcare during HIGH-TECC is not available this year you may contact the Concierge’s desk at the Vail Marriott via phone 970-477-5660 or via email at vailconcierge@marriott.com for childcare options. [Top]
Do you have exhibitor and/or vendor booths?
At this time we do not allow vendors to have booths at HIGH-TECC. However, on Monday afternoon from 4-5:30pm our new Technology Showcase will allow an opportunity for vendors, companies, and agencies to showcase their products/services.
What airport should I fly into? Can I fly directly into Vail?
The closest major airport to Vail is Denver International Airport (DEN). This is where most attendees arrive. You may also fly into the smaller Vail/Eagle County airport (EGE). Vail/Eagle County Airport is located 30 minutes west of Vail. Car rentals, taxi and shuttles are all available at the airport. Be aware that because Vail airport is small you will probably connect in Denver with a small commuter plane. Please check with your airline for service to this regional airport. [Top]
I am making my flight reservations, what time do events start and end?
You may pick up your registration materials starting Sunday, July 20 at 11:00 a.m. Our Opening Reception is from 6:00-8:00 p.m. HIGH-TECC concludes Wednesday, July 23 at 11:30 a.m. Because check-out at the Marriott is 11:00 a.m., please feel free to bring your luggage to this general session if you would like. Keep in mind it is approximately a two-hour drive from the Vail Marriott to Denver International Airport. [Top]
What is the cost for guests to attend receptions or meals with me?
As an attendee, all of your meals, events and camp materials are included in your registration fee. If you would like to have any guest(s) attend the Opening Reception, Closing Party or any other meals with you, you may complete and fax back our meal cost form. [Top]
I would like to sponsor an event or provide door prize items for HIGH-TECC 2008; where can I find that information?
HIGH-TECC 2008 provides many company recognition opportunities from sponsorships to door prizes. Contact Jenny Masek via email at Jenny@TAAReport.com or via phone at 303-404-0457. [Top]
What time is check-in and check-out at the Vail Marriott?
Check-in is 4:00 p.m. Check-out time is 11:00 a.m. The last session on Wednesday doesn’t end until 11:30 a.m. so attendees are welcome to bring their luggage with them and store them in the conference room during the meeting. [Top]
I would like to send promotional items to be given out to attendees at HIGH-TECC, where do I send them?
Tables for promotional items (pens, brochures etc.) are located in the main conference room at HIGH-TECC 2008. Approximately 150 attendees can be expected. Please contact Jenny Masek via email at Jenny@TAAReport.com or via phone at 303-404-0457 and let her know that you will be sending materials. She will answer any questions you may have.
** Please plan for your package(s) for HIGH-TECC 2008 to be delivered to the hotel no earlier than Wednesday, July 16, 2008. Please ship to:
HIGH-TECC 2008
ATTN: Jenny Masek
C/O TC Bagley, Event Manager
Vail Marriott Mountain Resort
715 W Lionshead Circle
Vail, CO 81657 [Top]
What is the cost to attend HIGH-TECC? Is there a discount if other colleagues from my office attend?
Take advantage of the Early Bird discount by May 30 and your first registration will be $749, additional registrations are $695. After May 30, your first registration will be $949 and additional registrations are $895. Contact Jenny Masek via email at Jenny@TAAReport.com or via phone at 303-404-0457 for information on discounts for groups. [Top]
Will there be any evenings available during HIGH-TECC that I will be able to spend with my family or for networking opportunities?
Yes! Monday evening (July 21) has been set aside for an evening on your own. This is also an opportunity to go to dinner with other attendees you have met or meet in the bar after dinner to learn what makes successful agents successful. [Top]
