Baking Management:
What should attendees expect from BakingTech 2008?

Thomas Kuk:
BakingTech attendees should “expect the unexpected” once again. We plan to educate, entertain inform and inspire, and we will do that in many different ways. Monday morning's opening session will be be both inspirational and entertaining. The Baking Hall of Fame Induction reaches people in many different ways. Yossi Ghinsberg, our keynote speaker, will clearly reach the core of many conference attendees. The week will be filled with many surprises that will bring out the best baking has to offer. There will be humor in many unexpected ways, great knowledge sharing with more than 26 technical presentations and incredible insight from our Leadership Forum featuring George Deese of Flowers Foods Corp., Reynaldo Reyna of Bimbo Bakeries USA, and Gary Jensen of Roman Meal.

BM:
What trends in baking will the sessions address this year?

Kuk:
Monday afternoon will focus on leadership and lean manufacturing practices. Tuesday morning will be more generic with such topics as “A Global Perspective on Functional Foods,” “Improvements in Dough Mixing” and “Managing Human Capital.” Tuesday's Professional Development Luncheon will offer two choices: “Conflict Resolution” or “Excelling as a Highly Effective Leader.” Tuesday afternoon will feature four breakout sessions with a new addition focusing on “Going Green in the Bakery.”

BM:
How many exhibitors do you expect this year?

Kuk:
We are planning on another completely sold out year with 183 companies. Currently we have five exhibit spaces left.

BM:
ASB Chairman George Poulos announced the creation of the Baking Center for Innovation and Leadership. What purpose will this new foundation serve?

Kuk:
The Baking Foundation for Innovation and Leadership will be established as a strategic base for administering the Baking Hall of Fame, as well as consolidating our scholarship program. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, it will also allow the membership to contribute tax-deductible donations to specific community outreach and leadership development programs.

BM:
Why should bakers attend BakingTech 2008?

Kuk:
The industry, as well as the economy is changing rapidly. BakingTech not only addresses changes in baking science and technology, but provides a new vision for tomorrow. Our mission is to educate bakers. BakingTech is the only industry technical conference that offers such a broad perspective on wholesale baking. Why would someone concerned about the future of baking not participate in such a wide-ranging forum and exchange of ideas?