Networking and Events

Build relationships that help you and your career.
Get connected at these networking and conference events.

You'll gain fresh perspectives and sharper skills by networking with peers and industry leaders who share your interests and concerns at this year's Annual Conference.

Watch this video of member Paul Bruning sharing his thoughts on membership and his conference experience.

If you're a new AAOE member or this is your first AAOE conference, we've got you covered. Learn more about conference events for newbies.

Saturday, April 14, 2018

Hive Welcome Event (New Members and First-Time Attendees)
4:30 pm – 5:00 pm

What’s the buzz about the Hive? There may be 20,000 species of bees in the world, but the ones that matter are the “newbies” at the AAOE Annual Conference.

First-time attendees and new members are invited to stop by the Hive regularly throughout the conference. Newbies can get answers to questions, ask for buzzworthy advice, take the sting out of making new friends, or simply rest your wings in the Hive. Attending a large conference can be overwhelming. Just know that you are not alone!

The Hive kick-off will be Saturday afternoon before the Opening Reception. Newbies can learn simple tips and tricks for making the most of the conference, then take a guided tour of the meeting space. You’ll know your way around the conference and will be buddied up with a volunteer Ambassador to help ease introductions during the Opening Reception.

Start your day right each morning at the Hive Meet-Up. Then stop by the Hive anytime to meet other newbies or to chat with AAOE member volunteers. Mark “first-time attendee” and/or “new AAOE member” on your registration, then watch your email for additional details about the Hive.

The Hive Sponsored By:

Opening Reception in Exhibit Hall
5:00 pm – 6:30 pm

Kick off your first night of the conference at the Opening Reception in the Exhibit Hall. Mingle with other attendees and meet representatives from exhibiting companies while enjoying appetizers and beverages. Check in your attendee bag for your Exhibit Hall game card and start visiting participating companies during the reception. Last year’s prizes included a diamond necklace, designer purse, and men’s and women’s watches!

Sunday, April 15, 2018

Give Kids the World Day
All Day

Attendees and booth staff who donate $25 or more to Give Kids the World get a shirt to wear Sunday, April 15, compliments of sponsor Signature Care Management! If you haven't already, visit the registration area to provide your donation and get your shirt (while supplies last). Visit Signature Care Management at Booth #119 to thank them for their generous support, which ensures that your entire donation goes to GKTW!

Sponsored By:

The Hive--Sponsored by McKesson
All Day

New members and first-time attendees are encouraged to start their day at the morning meet-up from 7:00 am - 8:00 am to meet other newbies and AAOE member volunteers.

Networking and Lunch in Exhibit Hall – Give Kids the World Day!
11:00 am – 1:00 pm

Enjoy an international-themed cuisine featuring foods from “around the world” while meeting representatives from exhibiting companies. Bring your Exhibit Hall game card and visit participating companies for the chance to win prizes!

Networking by Region
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Discuss hot industry topics with attendees from your part of the country, who are facing issues similar to your own. When the final schedule is released, look for your state to see the room where you will meet. You will go directly to that room number at 4:00 pm to start networking!

State Society Receptions (By Invitation)
5:15 pm – 6:00 pm

Several state and regional groups will host receptions for their members to get to know peers in the same geographic area. Groups hosting receptions include (to date):

Georgia Association of Orthopaedi Executives and Alabama Orthopaedic Executives (members located in Tennessee also welcome)
The BONES Society of Florida and South Carolina Orthopaedic Association
Midwest AAOE (Arkansas, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania)
NYS Bones (members located in New Jersey also welcome)

President’s Reception (By Invitation)
6:00 pm – 6:30 pm

Volunteers, sponsors, and guests of the President are invited. During the reception, volunteers will be recognized and the President’s Award will be given.

Poolside Party in Paradise
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

All attendees are invited to gather poolside at the Hyatt Regency Orlando for an evening of coastal comfort consisting of food, drinks, and live music.

Stop at the food station for fresh seafood and grilled menu items. Local fisherman will display their catch of the day from an overturned boat serving as a buffet! Then grab a drink from the beer or wine tap wall. Lounge by the pool or sink your toes in the sand as you mingle with old and new friends you've made at the conference. String lights will softly illuminate the evening, and a live band playing all genres of music--from classics to contemporary--will set the perfect tone for a fun and relaxing evening.

No swimsuits necessary for this poolside party – just bring yourself and an appetite for food and fun!

Monday, April 16, 2018

Sports Day
All Day

Wear your favorite jersey or represent your favorite team by dressing in their colors!

The Hive--Sponsored by McKesson
All Day

New members and first-time attendees are encouraged to visit the Hive throughout the day to chat with fellow newbies and AAOE member volunteers. Come to the morning meet-up from 7:30 am - 8:00 am before going to the Ambassador Breakfast.

Ambassador Breakfast (New Members and First-Time Attendees)
8:00 am – 9:00 am

“New-bees” to AAOE and the Annual Conference are invited to attend the Ambassador Breakfast to meet each other and learn more about AAOE during a delicious breakfast. The breakfast is hosted by AAOE leadership, who will discuss AAOE membership and how to get involved.

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