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

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

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!

Fueling Long Island’s Future: A Blueprint for Smart, Sustainable Growth

At HIA-LI’s recent Economic Development Symposium, we welcomed a room full of business leaders, public officials, and visionaries who share a common belief: that Long Island’s economic future can—and must—be shaped intentionally, inclusively, and strategically.

The forum underscored what we already know to be true: sustainable economic growth doesn’t happen by chance. It’s built on a foundation of smart investments, bold leadership, and the willingness to rethink the systems we’ve inherited.

Building Livable Communities Through Collaboration

One consistent theme that emerged was the critical importance of collaboration between government and the private sector. Angie Carpenter, Supervisor of the Town of Islip, made it clear that responsible economic development must go hand-in-hand with quality-of-life investments. Her town is not only reimagining downtown Central Islip through a $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative but also leveraging the economic power of MacArthur Airport to create jobs and attract investment. With five airlines and 18 non-stop destinations—including new service from JetBlue and Avelo—Islip is proving that modern infrastructure is essential to regional vitality.

Economic Development with a Human Face

At the Suffolk County IDA, Kelly Murphy is driving investment that is both data-informed and community-centered. Her team helped generate over $214 million in payroll last year, through projects that didn’t just create jobs—they created careers. The IDA’s focus on “Long Island First” encourages companies to hire locally and reinvest in the region, from expanding manufacturers at the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge to family-owned businesses like Casanova Meats. These aren’t abstract numbers; they’re direct investments in families, futures, and neighborhoods.

That focus on workforce development is aligned with the region’s recent progress. According to data recently announced by Governor Kathy Hochul, Long Island added 91,000 non-farm jobs between 2020 and 2024—an impressive 7.1% increase. Healthcare led the way with more than 24,000 new positions, while construction rose 10%, creating over 8,000 jobs. Even more encouraging: unemployment dropped from 4.5% to 3.8%, a signal that targeted investments are paying off across the board.

Solving the Housing Crisis: A Prerequisite for Economic Growth

No conversation about Long Island’s future can avoid the issue of housing. Jimmy Coughlan, Executive Vice President at TRITEC Real Estate, laid out the stark reality: of counties in the U.S. with a population of at least 1.5 million, Suffolk County is the second largest by area and by population, but dead last nationwide in new housing starts. Nassau County, right next door, doesn’t fare much better. Both counties lag behind high-growth regions like Charlotte, Nashville, and Raleigh—places that have embraced new development to attract and retain talent.

The consequences here are clear: young professionals are being priced out, businesses can’t attract the workforce they need, and our region’s growth potential is being constrained. The housing market, like any market, is a function of supply and demand—and on Long Island, we’re simply not producing enough supply.

But Coughlan didn’t come with just problems—he brought solutions. Smart growth. Transit-oriented development. Streamlined approvals. Flexible affordability mandates that make projects financially viable. TRITEC’s work in Bay Shore and Ronkonkoma proves that when developers and local governments work together, vibrant communities follow.

A Model for Regional Growth: The Long Island Innovation Park

In the Town of Smithtown, Supervisor Ed Wehrheim has made the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge a centerpiece of his economic development agenda. The park now supports over 55,000 jobs, contributes $13 billion in economic output, and houses leading companies in sectors like aerospace, biopharma, IT, and advanced manufacturing.

Wehrheim’s vision for a “live, work, play” district—with mixed-use zoning, modern infrastructure, and expanded sewer capacity—is already attracting the younger workforce Long Island needs to stay competitive. His town’s track record—AAA bond rating, zero fiscal stress, thriving downtowns—is a model for how proactive leadership fuels prosperity.

A Call to Action

At HIA-LI, we believe in the power of partnerships. What we heard at this year’s Economic Development Symposium wasn’t just a list of projects or statistics—it was a blueprint for how to move forward as a region. It starts with embracing innovation, investing in infrastructure, building housing for every generation, and supporting the businesses that power our economy.

Long Island’s future isn’t written yet. But with bold thinking and shared purpose, we’re well on our way to building it—together.

Charting the Future of Long Island’s Construction and A&E Industries

Over 200 leaders from Long Island’s construction, architecture, and engineering sectors gathered on Thursday, December 12, 2025 for a breakfast event that was as insightful as it was impactful. Hosted by HIA-LI in collaboration with the Long Island Builders Institute and the Long Island Contractors Association, the event spotlighted the findings of the Grassi 2024 Construction and Architecture & Engineering (A&E) Industry Survey Report. It was a morning of thoughtful discussion, led by highly respected voices in our community.

The program began with opening remarks from Marc Herbst, Executive Director of the Long Island Contractors Association, who set the tone by emphasizing the critical role these sectors play in the bi-county region’s economic vitality. Carl Oliveri, Partner and Construction Practice Leader at Grassi, skillfully moderated the panel, which included Robert Brewer, Partner and A&E Practice Leader at Grassi; Jimmy Coughlan, Executive Vice President and Partner at TRITEC; Rich Humann, President & CEO of H2M architects + engineers; and Devin Kulka, CEO of The Kulka Group. Each speaker brought unique perspectives on the survey’s findings, and together, they painted a comprehensive picture of where we stand — and where we’re headed.

Insights and Challenges from the Survey

The survey provided an honest assessment of the current landscape for construction and A&E firms, capturing feedback from 248 industry leaders. While optimism about revenue growth in 2024 is strong — 56% anticipate an increase — there’s no denying the headwinds our region faces.

The Challenges:

  1. Labor Shortages
    Labor shortages remain a top concern, with over half of respondents citing this as the most significant challenge. The scarcity of skilled workers isn’t just a business problem; it’s a community issue. It impacts the pace of development and the ability to meet growing housing and infrastructure needs.
  2. Inflation and Rising Costs
    Inflation, coupled with escalating material and overhead costs, continues to squeeze margins. Eighty-three percent of firms reported increased overhead costs, with many facing double-digit hikes. This reality forces companies to make tough choices and adapt to maintain profitability.
  3. Supply Chain Disruptions
    While supply chain issues have eased somewhat, they remain a persistent challenge. Many firms are turning to innovative solutions such as diversifying suppliers and locking in prices through agreements to mitigate volatility.

The Opportunities:

  1. Technological Investments
    Companies across the sector are embracing advancements like project management software, artificial intelligence, and building information modeling. These tools are enhancing efficiency and helping firms stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
  2. Cybersecurity Leadership
    Long Island’s A&E firms are leading the way in cybersecurity, with 96% implementing robust protocols, including dual-factor authentication. This commitment to protecting sensitive data is a model for other industries.
  3. Optimism in Residential Construction
    Despite challenges, there is cautious optimism about residential construction, particularly here in Nassau and Suffolk counties. This is a positive indicator of the region’s resilience and its ability to adapt to market demands.

What This Means for Long Island

The findings of this survey are a mirror reflecting both the promise and the pressures of doing business in our region. As we look to 2025, it’s clear that collaboration will be key to addressing these challenges. Workforce development must take center stage. HIA-LI is committed to working with local schools, trade groups, organized labor, and government agencies to cultivate a pipeline of skilled workers who can sustain this vital industry.

At the same time, our businesses must continue to innovate. Investments in technology and strategic partnerships will not only help firms weather economic uncertainties but also position Long Island as a hub for cutting-edge construction and engineering practices.

Finally, we must celebrate our strengths. The construction and A&E industries are pillars of our economy, contributing to the development of homes, offices, schools, and infrastructure that enhance our quality of life. By supporting these sectors, we are investing in the future of our entire community.

A Call to Action

To the leaders in attendance last week: Thank you for your insights, your dedication, and your vision. Let’s continue to work together to strengthen Long Island’s position as a leader in innovation and growth. And to those who couldn’t attend, I encourage you to engage with the findings of this report. The challenges are real, but so are the opportunities.

Together, we can rise to meet them.

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

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.

Trade Show Proves We’re Back to Business!

No matter the industry or the business sector – and no matter whether you’re a for-profit or not-for-profit enterprise – there’s nothing like real-world, face-to-face networking to help reinforce existing relationships and develop new relationships.

More than 2,000 participants walked the floor at the HIA-LI 34th Annual Business Trade Show and Conference on May 26.

And that leads to new business!

We were all reminded of these basic truths on May 26 at our 34th Annual Business Trade Show and Conference at Suffolk Community College in Brentwood. More than 2,000 business executives joined us to interact with more than 150 exhibitors representing just about every industry sector on Long Island: technology, energy and environment, manufacturing, finance, hospitality, healthcare, media and advertising, education, government, workforce development, and more.

The event began with a sold-out, all-star breakfast panel moderated by Marc Herbst of the Long Island Contractors’ Association. Panelists included Scott Burman of Engel Burman, Joe Campolo of Campolo Middleton & McCormick, Jim Coughlan of TRITEC, and Richard Zapolski of Cameron Engineering.

The panel zeroed in on one of the most exciting and ambitious projects taking shape on Long Island today: Midway Crossing in Ronkonkoma.

The $2.8-billion, public/private project would create a transportation-oriented hub comprised of 1.4 million square feet of office space geared toward bio-tech, research, healthcare and STEM education. It would also include a convention center with a 108,000-square-foot exhibit hall, a 30,000-square-foot ballroom, and 20,000 square feet of meeting rooms.

Plans for Midway Crossing also encompass a 300-room hotel, 250,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space, and a new, 300,000-square-foot terminal at Islip MacArthur Airport that would connect to the Ronkonkoma LIRR station.

Panelists agreed that Midway Crossing stands to be a transformational project for the Long Island economy, generating thousands of jobs and helping to better integrate Long Island’s transportation infrastructure on a big-picture basis – and for the long term.

Making Midway Crossing a reality is going to require energetic advocacy on the part of the Long Island business community, and HIA-LI – a long-time supporter of Islip’s Long Island MacArthur Airport – plans to play an active part.

Other projects discussed include growth at the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge, the Ronkonkoma Hub, downtown Bay Shore, and downtown Long Beach – all vital projects that give young professionals options to live, work, and play on Long Island.

Why is this important? Because studies show that 67 percent of young adults ages 18 to 35 and looking to leave Long Island within the next five years. And by 2025 – just three short years from now – 75 percent of our workforce will need to be young professionals.  These projects are critical to stop the brain drain that’s on the horizon.

Also, for the first time, our Trade Show featured a dedicated Manufacturing Pavilion focused on specific issues and challenges facing manufacturers.

And how do we know it was a success? We asked exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees to complete surveys that would allow us to quantify their level of satisfaction with the event. And, on a scale of one to ten, respondents gave the Trade Show a robust ranking of 8.5.

Thank you to everyone who helped contribute to the success of our 34th Annual Business Trade Show and Conference. Let’s keep the momentum going!

It Ain’t Just Exhibit Booths!

Top photo: The trade show floor. Bottom photo: The executive luncheon panel.

Every May, HIA-LI’s Annual Trade Show and Conference infuses our year-round programming  with a healthy jolt of momentum.

This year’s event, our 31st, was the most successful ever. The May 30 exposition – held at Suffolk County Community College in Brentwood – attracted 375 exhibitors and more than 3,000 attendees. It was a joy to see attendees reinforce valuable business relationships on the trade show floor.

One high point was Executive Breakfast keynoter Carl Banks, the former NFL linebacker who earned two Super Bowl championship rings as a New York Giant.

Carl is president of GIII Sports, an apparel company ranking among the top three sportswear licensees in professional sports. He shared lessons for success he had carried from the football field into the business world.

Later, a stellar Executive Luncheon panel was moderated by Mitch Pally, CEO of the Long Island Builders Institute and a huge HIA-LI booster.

Panelist Bob Coughlan, principal with TRITEC Real Estate, updated attendees on the 50-acre Ronkonkoma Hub. His company is master developer of a project Bob calls “one of the East Coast’s best transit-oriented sites.”

In a presentation by David Wolkoff, a principal at Heartland Business Center, guests were briefed on Heartland Town Square, a walkable, 450-acre “smart growth” community unfolding on Brentwood’s former Pilgrim State grounds.

David Pennetta, executive director of Cushman & Wakefield, discussed such novel development strategies as a recent proposal to permit multi-family development within an aging Melville business park.

Village of Patchogue Mayor Paul Pontieri drew praise from fellow panelists for his community’s precedent-setting, redevelopment makeover, including TRITEC’s $112 million, multi-use “New Village” community.

Panelist Joe Campolo — the Managing Partner at Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP and our HIA-LI board chair — reinforced the upbeat spirit by focusing on the action plan spelled out in the recent “Opportunity Analysis” completed for the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge, the new name of the Hauppauge Industrial Park.

The analysis was sponsored by Suffolk County IDA and the Regional Plan Association – and a Task Force is poised to turn the plan into a reality.

While every panelist acknowledged the urgent need for Long Island to retain the youngest stratum of our workforce, Joe said that the strategic re-creation of our business park would play an instrumental role in keeping young people here.

The energy of a successful trade show – combined with the anticipation we’re all feeling as the Park launches its expansion plans – made for an exciting day!