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A Day of Ideas, Innovation, and Impact at the HIA-LI 2025 Trade Show

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At the Executive Luncheon podium is Jim Coughlan, Co-Founder and Principal, TRITEC Real Estate. Seated to his left is Tracey Edwards, Senior Vice President, Sands New York.

I had the privilege of welcoming nearly 4,000 business professionals to the Suffolk Credit Union Arena on May 29 for our 37th Annual HIA-LI Business Trade Show & Conference—and what a day it was.

From the moment doors opened, the energy was palpable. More than 375 exhibitors transformed the arena into a bustling marketplace of ideas and opportunities. Our industry pavilions—Technology, Finance, Innovation & Economic Development, Energy & Environmental, Healthcare, and Manufacturing—showcased Long Island’s strengths and the forward momentum of our regional economy.

The day began with an unforgettable Executive Breakfast headlined by Harris Beber, Global Head of Marketing for Google Workspace. Harris offered a dynamic and accessible presentation, “Demystifying AI: What It Is, What It Isn’t, and Why It Matters for Your Business.” He made it clear that AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s a practical tool, already reshaping productivity, marketing, and decision-making. One moment that stuck with me: Harris pointed out that “AI won’t take your job, but someone using AI might.” That one sentence sparked countless hallway conversations afterward—and that’s exactly the kind of thought leadership we aim to deliver through HIA-LI.

Later in the day, we hosted our Executive Luncheon titled “Economic Development – Reshaping Long Island’s Landscape.” We were honored to welcome Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado, who offered thoughtful and passionate opening remarks on the need for sustained, inclusive growth. He emphasized that “when we invest in people, we expand opportunity,” and spoke about the importance of aligning infrastructure investments with workforce development to ensure that all Long Islanders can thrive. Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine followed with a passionate call to action, reminding us that Long Island can and should be the economic engine for all of New York State. “Show me how you invest your money and I’ll show you where your state or county is going,” he said, as he advocated for infrastructure funding, better public transportation, and policies that allow our region to retain and attract young families.

The luncheon panel was skillfully moderated by Marc Herbst, Executive Director of the Long Island Contractors’ Association, who reminded the audience that “Economic development isn’t just about buildings—it’s about planning for the people who will live and work in them. That’s what today’s conversation is all about.”

The panelists included:

Together, they painted an exciting picture of Long Island’s future—one filled with innovation, revitalization, and resilience.

Of course, our Trade Show is more than marquee speakers. This year, we introduced Trade Show Talks—fast-paced, 20-minute floor presentations covering everything from HR law to financial strategy. Alongside these were our traditional breakout sessions, diving deeper into leadership, marketing, and emerging technologies. And for those seeking quick networking wins, our speed networking sessions helped connect dozens of professionals in record time.

But perhaps the most rewarding part of the day was hearing what attendees and exhibitors had to say. As one first-time attendee, Chris Mundy of MILCON Construction, shared, “This was a great opportunity to meet other business owners and generate new leads.” Another, Siobhan Ainsworth of Long Island Igloos, wrote, “I was very impressed with the event as a whole. It was well organized and gave me the opportunity to make a lot of great connections.” And Richard Cassiano of North American Resource Capital, Inc. added, “There was a great variety of exhibitors to meet.”

These kinds of comments reflect the very heart of why we produce this event.

And the numbers tell the story too:
✅ 100 percent of sponsors rated the show 8 or better out of a scale of 10.
✅ Nearly 80 percent of attendees gave us top marks.
This feedback, gathered directly from our post-event surveys, confirms that our trade show continues to meet or exceed the needs of Long Island’s business community.

I’m grateful to our sponsors, exhibitors, speakers, and the entire HIA-LI team who made the day possible. If you missed this year’s event, we hope to see you next year. And if you were there—we hope you left as inspired as we did.

Here’s to continued growth, stronger relationships, and a thriving Long Island.

Connecting, Learning, Growing: The Power of One Day at the HIA-LI Trade Show

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Harris Beber, Global Head of Marketing for Google Workspace, will keynote the Executive Breakfast.

Every year, I get excited when May rolls around, because it means the return of the HIA-LI Annual Trade Show & Conference — and 2025 is shaping up to be one of our most dynamic and forward-looking events ever.

On Thursday, May 29, we will welcome some 4,000 business professionals and showcase more than 375 exhibitors at the Suffolk Credit Union Arena at Suffolk County Community College in Brentwood. This is the 37th year of the show, and our momentum just keeps growing. As always, our goal is simple: to create a space where ideas are exchanged, partnerships are formed, and Long Island business moves forward.

This year’s event, once again presented in partnership with our friends at Sands New York, is packed with opportunities for education, inspiration, and high-impact networking.

We’ll kick off the day with our Executive Breakfast at 8:00 a.m., featuring Harris Beber, the Global Head of Marketing for Google Workspace. Harris, who was previously CMO of Vimeo and has been recognized by Forbes as one of the top marketing executives in the country, will speak on the topic: “Demystifying AI: What It Is, What It Isn’t, and Why It Matters for Your Business.” In a business environment that’s moving faster than ever, this session will offer real-world insight into how AI is reshaping collaboration and productivity across industries. I encourage everyone to register early—this is a ticketed session with limited seating.

At 11:30 a.m., we turn our attention to economic development at the Executive Luncheon titled “Reshaping Long Island’s Landscape.” We’re thrilled to welcome Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine who will provide opening remarks. Our panel will be moderated by Marc Herbst, Executive Director of the Long Island Contractors’ Association, and features an incredible lineup:

These leaders will discuss some of the most ambitious projects underway in our region, including Belmont Park Village, Station Yards, the hotel and resort casino proposal for the Nassau Hub, the Electron-Ion Collider at Brookhaven Lab, and the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge. This is also a ticketed event, and I strongly recommend registering in advance to ensure your seat.

In addition to the breakfast and luncheon, we’re introducing exciting new content this year. Our new “Trade Show Talks” are fast-paced, 20-minute sessions hosted right on the trade show floor, which is open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Topics include AI, leadership, business development, networking strategies, and workplace wellness. And of course, we’re continuing our ever-popular 60-minute breakout sessions, which cover everything from marketing to cybersecurity to relationship-building. Our Speed Networking sessions will also return this year, giving you the chance to make powerful new connections quickly and efficiently.

We’ll also feature six themed industry pavilions on the show floor:

  • Technology
  • Finance
  • Innovation & Economic Development
  • Energy & Environmental
  • Healthcare
  • Manufacturing (in memory of Ron Loveland)

Each pavilion is designed to help attendees focus their networking and learn what’s new in their specific area of interest.

Whether you’re looking to grow your network, explore new vendors, or learn from industry leaders, this show delivers. I genuinely believe there is no better one-day opportunity to engage with the Long Island business community.

Attendees are encouraged to pre-register to avoid the same-day $10 walk-in fee. For exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities, please reach out to Anthony Forgione, HIA-LI’s Director of Business Development, at aforgione@hia-li.org or call 631-543-5355. You can also find everything you need at www.hia-li.org/trade-show.

I look forward to seeing you on May 29. Let’s make it our best trade show yet!

Women as Economic Catalysts: The Imperative of Leadership and Inclusion

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Fifteen years ago, during a women’s business leaders forum led by U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, we began a dialogue about the unique challenges facing women in the workforce. Senator Gillibrand challenged us to keep that conversation alive, and this led to the birth of HIA-LI’s Women’s Leadership Conference. Today, this annual event is not just a tradition but a vital forum for exploring the critical role women play in driving economic growth.

Globally, the gender gap is closing, but progress remains slow. According to the World Economic Forum, the global gender gap stands at just 68.6% closed, meaning women still face significant disparities in economic participation, education, health, and political empowerment. At the current pace, it will take 131 years to achieve full parity. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the labor force participation rate for women aged 16 and over was just 57.4% in October 2024, reflecting ongoing challenges in workforce engagement. These numbers underscore why events like this year’s HIA-LI Women’s Leadership Conference are essential.

This year’s conference focused on authentic leadership and workplace equity, offering actionable strategies to empower women while addressing systemic barriers. One of the most striking statistics comes from Pew Research, which highlights that women still earn just 82% of what men earn for similar work—a gap that has only narrowed by 2% over the past two decades. For women of color, these disparities are even more pronounced. Addressing these issues isn’t just a moral imperative; it’s an economic one. Studies consistently show that companies with diverse leadership teams outperform their peers.

This year, our keynote speaker, Linda Armyn, CEO of Bethpage Federal Credit Union, shared insights from Bethpage’s “Money Like a Woman” campaign, which celebrates women’s strengths in collaborative decision-making and long-term financial planning. Her message was clear: empowering women financially uplifts entire communities. Armyn’s keynote set the tone for a day that was both inspiring and pragmatic.

The event also featured a panel of accomplished leaders who shared their journeys and insights. Panelist Gwen O’Shea, CEO of Community Development Long Island, reminded us of the critical need to address pay disparities and ensure systemic change. Tracey Edwards, Senior VP at Sands New York, discussed the importance of personal branding and ethical leadership, while Lauren Nichols, President of 3G Warehouse, highlighted how setbacks can serve as powerful learning opportunities. Christine Flaherty, Senior Vice President for Real Estate Development and Facilities at Catholic Health, emphasized listening and adapting as keys to effective leadership, while Carolyn Mazzenga, Office Managing Partner, Marcum LLP, stressed the importance of trusting your intuition and seeking mentors who can guide you through critical moments in your career.

One of the day’s most poignant moments was the fireside chat featuring Kristen Reynolds, CEO of Discover Long Island, and News 12 anchor Erin Colton. Their discussion explored mental health challenges, resilience, and the importance of seeking balance in a demanding world. Colton’s candid reflections on her own experiences with anxiety and depression resonated deeply, reminding us all of the power of vulnerability in leadership.

Our breakout sessions provided practical tools for attendees, covering topics from work-life integration to reclaiming authenticity. And in a particularly inspiring addition this year, we welcomed young women from local high schools. Carol Allen, HIA-LI Board Chair and President and CEO of People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union, offered advice to these future leaders: “Embrace the journey, stay curious, and take something valuable with you from every opportunity.” Their presence underscored the importance of fostering leadership at every stage.

As I reflect on this year’s conference, I am reminded of why this work matters. Women are not just participants in the economy; they are drivers of innovation, growth, and community. Yet challenges like pay inequity and underrepresentation in leadership persist. Through initiatives like the HIA-LI Women’s Leadership Conference, we are not just discussing these issues—we are taking steps to solve them. Together, we can create an economy that works for everyone.

Fostering Economic Growth and Efficiency: Why Long Island’s Largest B2B Trade Show on May 23 is More Than Just an Event

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I am extremely proud of the role HIA-LI plays in bolstering Long Island’s $200 billion economy through our annual Business-to-Business Trade Show and Conference. This event isn’t just a gathering; it’s a dynamic forum for vital economic discussions and a catalyst for business collaboration. Each year, we witness how this trade show has evolved into an influential platform where businesses come together not only to showcase their offerings but to engage in meaningful dialogues about innovation, efficiency, and profitability.

It’s about more than just networking — it’s about empowering businesses to reimagine their branding, streamline their operations, and enhance their market presence. This year, as we host our 36th annual trade show on Thursday, May 23, at the Suffolk Credit Union Arena at Suffolk County Community College in Brentwood, we continue our commitment to advancing these critical conversations.

With over 250 exhibitors from diverse sectors such as technology, manufacturing, and healthcare, we are setting the stage for over 4,000 business professionals, including decision-makers, upper management, and industry leaders, to discover new products and services, forge strategic partnerships, and uncover new avenues for growth. Our collaboration with Sands New York, returning as the Title Sponsor, underscores our dedication to integrating local businesses into the broader economic framework, facilitating a shared journey towards sustainable regional development.

Connecting Businesses and Creating Opportunities

As we move forward with preparations for this major event, our focus remains on creating a vibrant gathering that provides all participants with unparalleled opportunities to engage, learn, and succeed. It’s a platform for businesses to forge valuable connections, share insights, and work together to advance the region’s economy.

Our break-out sessions include two Sands New York procurement workshops that aim to connect local businesses with Sands staff, integrating local suppliers into their procurement process. It’s an incredible opportunity for regional businesses to access new opportunities and build lasting relationships.

Celebrating Innovation at the Executive Luncheon

I’m particularly excited about our Executive Luncheon, “Economic Development Projects Changing Long Island’s Landscape,” from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. Moderated by Marc Herbst, Executive Director of the Long Island Contractors’ Association, this session will feature opening remarks by Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Sands New York Senior Vice President Tracey Edwards.

Our distinguished panelists include:

We’ll discuss transformative projects like Shoregate in Bay Shore, Station Yards in Ronkonkoma, and Midway Crossing, also in Ronkonkoma. These initiatives, collectively, promise to reshape our region’s economic future by creating jobs, fostering growth, and enhancing Long Island’s appeal for young professionals.

Engaging Sessions and Networking

In addition to the luncheon, attendees can look forward to a full schedule of complimentary break-out sessions, including:

  • “From Retail to Revitalization: A Seminar on the Transformation of Smith Haven Mall”
  • “Expanding Your Network”
  • “From Clicks to Conversations, Strategies for Direct Response Marketing Success”

Plus, our morning and afternoon “Speed Networking” sessions will help participants make rapid-fire connections with other business professionals.

Industry Pavilions and More

Our special industry sector pavilions offer an added focus into key industry sectors:

We also encourage attendees to bring non-perishable food items for Long Island Cares, helping us combat food insecurity in Nassau and Suffolk counties.

Pre-Registration and Sponsorships

Pre-register for the event at www.HIA-LI.org to avoid the $10 same-day walk-in fee. For exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities, contact Anthony Forgione at aforgione@hia-li.org or 631-543-5355.

Let’s celebrate Long Island’s vibrant business community, make valuable connections, and explore new opportunities. I look forward to seeing you there!

Harnessing Innovation and Collaboration: The Key to Growth of the Long Island Economy

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The Executive Luncheon at HIA-LI’s 35th Annual Business Trade Show and Conference features projects of regional significance

Clockwise from upper left: Jimmy Coughlan, Jr., Vice President of Development at TRITEC Real Estate Company; Marc Herbst, Executive Director of the Long Island Contractors’ Association; Derek Trulson, Vice Chairman of JLL New York; and, Joe Campolo, Managing Partner at Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP, and also an HIA-LI Board Member.

One of the necessities to the growth of the Long Island economy is the growth of innovative, transformative projects that not only create jobs but create places for our young professionals to live, work, and play.

That’s why the Executive Luncheon program at HIA-LI’s 35th Annual Business Trade Show and Conference featuring projects of regional significance should be on your calendar.

Our highly anticipated annual trade show – taking place on Thursday, May 25, from 9:00am to 3:00pm at the Suffolk Federal Credit Union Arena at Suffolk County Community College in Brentwood – is brought to you in partnership with our Title Sponsor, Sands New York. It’s a unique opportunity to network, learn, and collaborate with some of the most influential figures in our vibrant business community.

The Executive Luncheon, scheduled from 11:30am to 1:30pm, is designed to provide an insightful exploration of regionally significant Long Island projects that have the potential to substantially invigorate our local economy. The session will be moderated by Marc Herbst, Executive Director of the Long Island Contractors’ Association, a highly respected figure in the business community.

Our panelists include Derek Trulson, Vice Chairman of JLL New York; Jimmy Coughlan, Jr., Vice President of Development at TRITEC Real Estate Company; and Joe Campolo, Managing Partner at Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP, who also serves as an HIA-LI Board Member. A representative from Sands New York will also be joining the panel, adding to the diversity and depth of the discussion.

One of the key projects to be discussed will be Midway Crossing. This transformative initiative has been declared a “Project of Regional Significance” by the Long Island Regional Planning Council, promising an estimated annual economic benefit of $3.3 billion. This includes increased wages, tourism, tax revenue, and more, all of which will significantly bolster the surrounding communities and have far-reaching impacts across Long Island and beyond.

We’ll also be discussing two TRITEC projects: Shoregate and Station Yards. With Bay Shore undergoing a revitalization that is rapidly gaining momentum, Shoregate is poised to bolster these efforts by fostering more “feet on the street” with 418 much-needed multifamily rental units within walking distance of Main Street and the LIRR. Station Yards, in Ronkonkoma, right across from the LIRR, will bring 1,450 new homes and 388 new apartments to the center of the island, plus 70,000 square feet of retail space and a village green of about 10,000 square feet. These are two of several live-work-play TRITEC communities that are attractive to our region’s young talent, helping us to keep them here on Long Island and build our future together.

Our Title Sponsor, Sands New York, has recently embarked on a journey to develop a $4 billion resort and possible casino at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum site. This ambitious project includes outdoor community spaces, world-class live performance venues, and a broad range of entertainment programming. Their involvement in our event brings an exciting dimension to the conversation.

And of course, we will be discussing new developments and future plans for the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge, the largest business park in the northeast.

The main event, Long Island’s largest business-to-business trade show, will showcase over 250 exhibitors representing a diverse array of Long Island business sectors. Anticipated attendance exceeds 4,500 business professionals from Nassau and Suffolk counties and beyond, with three-quarters of these attendees being upper-management decision-makers. It has consistently demonstrated its incredible impact on regional businesses over the years. The power of in-person interaction facilitates valuable relationships, generating fresh business ideas and leads, sparking innovation. I am confident that this year will be no exception.

Pricing for the Executive Luncheon is $55 for members and $70 for non-members. Pre-registration is required – please call 631-543-5355 or visit www.hia-li.org. Pre-register for the trade show to avoid the $10 same-day walk-in fee. The day also features a morning motivational seminar by internationally renowned author and speaker Kevin L. McCrudden, available at $25 for members and $40 for non-members.