Next year, 2024, will mark 30 years of the HYDROVISION International event, delivering education and networking opportunities to the global hydropower and dams market.
The inaugural HYDROVISION conference and exhibition, in 1994, took place in August … in Phoenix, Ariz., where average summer temperatures exceeded 100 degrees Fahrenheit. And informal happy hours were held at the nearby hotel pool.
How far back do your memories go for this event? How many years have you attended?
I don’t go back the full 30 years, but I do distinctly remember the first event I was involved in, HYDROVISION International 2004 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. I recall walking the streets of Montreal, from the convention center to a nearby networking event or to dinner. I remember being fascinated by the beautiful architecture and the underground network of shops, restaurants, etc.
And of course I’ve been at every annual hydro event since then – 20 years and counting.
Those who have been around since the early years will remember the period when HYDROVISION alternated with the Waterpower conference on odd years, which was more of a technical program and each exhibitor got a 10 x 10 booth – a level playing field. In 2005, I attended my first Waterpower in Austin, Texas, U.S.
Then, in 2011, HYDROVISION became the annual global event brand.
Over the years I’ve been involved, HYDROVISION and Waterpower have gone to Austin; Charlotte, N.C.; Chattanooga, Tenn.; Denver, Colo.; Louisville, Ky.; Minneapolis, Minn.; Montreal; Nashville, Tenn.; Portland, Ore.; Sacramento, Calif.; and Spokane, Wash.
To commemorate 30 years, we’ll be gathering and sharing memories from industry members who’ve attended. This is a great way to share your insights, spark memories in others and remind us all why this event is vital to the success of the industry.
This year, HYDROVISION International returns to Denver, July 15 to 18, 2024. Join us to celebrate the long history of this event and propel HYDROVISION forward for the future.
