The 2016 Regulatory Convergence will kick off this Sunday evening in San Jose, CA. Following the opening keynote presentation from R “Ray” Wang, attendees will be treated to a grand opening reception in the Convergence’s exhibit hall. The Taste of Northern California Reception will give the 2,000 expected participants a chance to sample local fare and famous Napa Valley wine as they socialize and get a first look at the more 100 exhibitors at this year’s event.

In addition to being the location for the opening reception, the exhibit hall also provides a place for you to take a break in between education sessions, network with fellow attendees and connect with representatives from companies that may be helpful to you in your daily work or regulatory career. And if you visit all of the exhibitors listed on the Exhibitor Passport and get your passport stamped, you could enter to win up to to$500.

Many of the companies represented have been exhibiting at the Convergence for years, and they make up a key element of the global regulatory community. “RAPS is one of our favorite shows to participate in as an exhibitor,” said Cari Newton, director of strategic partnerships for 3D Communications, an exhibitor since 2010. “It’s become like a family reunion for us. Not only is it great to see so many of our clients and contacts from all of the local RAPS Chapters, but we also have become great friends with and won referral business from some of the other exhibitors.”

As the largest annual gathering of regulatory professionals anywhere in the world, the Convergence is a unique event for attendees and exhibitors alike. “It is the only conference or venue in the US that allows companies to meet regulatory affairs professionals and educate them on who we are, what we do, and opportunities we offer,” said Derrick Brown, talent acquisition team lead at Medtronic, a six-time exhibitor.

“The face-to-face interactions and personal connections that we make with all of the delegates who attend RAPS Convergence has proven to be very important to the annual growth of our business,” said Newton. “It is important for people to meet us in person and have the opportunity to ask questions.”

The exhibit hall also happens to be the location of RAPS Member Central, where attendees can get free headshot photos taken, make their marks to the interactive walls celebrating RAPS’ 40th anniversary, and get membership information or have their questions answered by friendly RAPS staffers.

And if you just need to relax and get a massage, the exhibit hall is the place. The popular massage station in the Abbott Lounge is back again this year. See you in San Jose!

For more information about the Regulatory Convergence or to register, visit RAPS.org/Convergence.