Hosts: Annik Sobing & Andy Shiles
Guests: Alyson Hachey, Elisabeth Sherrell, Bonnie Kersch, Lila Landis & George Reid
Published: October 5, 2025
Length: ~29 minutes
Presented by: Global Training Center
In this episode Annik Sobing and Andy Shiles are joined by a panel of conference organizers and long-time trade educators — Alyson Hachey, Elisabeth Sherrell, Bonnie Kersch, Lila Landis and George Reid — to preview two upcoming events: the MIC Customs / ICPA Mexico Conference in Mexico City and the ICPA Fall Trade Days in Grapevine, Texas. The conversation covers who should attend, the unique focus of each event, practical tips for getting the most out of the conferences (including networking and bringing cross-functional colleagues), and fun details like the opening reception, themed activities, and opportunities for virtual networking before and after the in-person gatherings.
The purpose and format of the MIC Customs / ICPA Mexico Conference (Mexico City, Nov 5–6).
The schedule and special programming for ICPA Fall Trade Days (Grapevine, TX): opening reception Oct 26, main conference Oct 27–28, plus ITAR-related sessions following the conference (Oct 29, 30 and 1 as discussed).
How the two events differ in content and audience (Mexico conference = Mexico-focused trade & cross-border issues; Grapevine = broader trade + ITAR programming).
Practical networking tips (how to approach meals/sessions, what to bring, and how to translate conference takeaways into a short briefing for leadership).
Why practitioners should bring colleagues from finance, purchasing, sourcing and logistics to get cross-functional value from the sessions.
The Mexico conference and the Grapevine Fall Trade Days serve different but complementary needs — both are valuable depending on your role and geographic focus.
Networking is one of the highest-return activities at these events; intentionally meet new people and use pre/post virtual networking opportunities.
Bring one or two colleagues from other functions (finance, purchasing, logistics) so you can turn conference insights into actionable company plans.
Prepare a short, snappy 2–3 slide summary to brief leadership when you return — the panel recommends focusing on risks, decisions needed, and quick wins.
The events mix serious compliance content with community-building (receptions, line dancing, games) — plan to learn and connect.
Resources & Mentions
Credits
Hosts:
Guests:
Producer: Lalo Solorzano
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