WERC logo

WERC cancels Annual Conference in May due to the Coronavirus

The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) announced that the 2020 WERC Annual Conference to be held May 3 – 6, 2020 in Providence, RI has been canceled for the health, safety, and well-being of their attendees, speakers, Solution Partners, and the staff due to the Coronavirus outbreak.

Annette Danek-Akey headshot

Annette Danek-Akey

In a press release from Annette Danek-Akey, WERC Board president and Michael Mikitka, WERC CEO it said, “Our leadership and professional staff have been regularly communicating to discuss recommendations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO), as well as authorities in Providence. We have also been tracking the travel policy restrictions affecting our members and attendees as many organizations instituted travel bans or restrictions.

Michael Mikitka, CAE headshot

Michael Mikitka, CAE

It became clear that canceling is the right decision in order to protect the safety and well-being of meeting attendees. Furthermore, taking this action will ensure that our members, who represent a critical element of the supply chain, are available to ensure that people get their products and services, companies deliver on their commitments, and communities are served during this crisis.”

It also stated that in the weeks ahead, WERC will tap into the innovative and ingenious spirit of this specialty to explore virtual options that deliver world-class education to their members. While plans are nascent, WERC will keep their community apprised of plans to continue to deliver research, knowledge and expert insight in the weeks ahead.

Since its inception in 1977, WERC has held its annual conference. At this time, however, it is more important for WERC Members to be ready for action.

Regular updates and announcements will be posted on werc.org/2020 and our other member communication channels.