Oil Patch Insider

Bill Webb designs new, ‘fun’ Pac Com Expo, set Feb. 5-6

For people who are “conferenced-out” there is a get-together in early 2008 that looks like fun. Serious fun. (And better, no political speeches.)

The event is Pac Com Expo on Feb. 5 and 6 in Anchorage. Before you yawn and turn the page, remember Bill Webb’s company recently purchased the annual expo. And Webb, remembering the “good ole boys” of his oil patch days, has decided to make Pac Com worth attending.

First, he’s setting the stage for an enjoyable atmosphere with a Mardi Gras theme, complete with colorful decorations, “great Southern food” such as catfish and barbecue ribs, and entertainment in the form of Dallas-based Vince Vance & the Valiants.

Second, instead of focusing on political topics, Pac Com’s focus will be its exhibitors’ products and services, and providing an atmosphere for building relationships.

“We have regularly attended the Pac Com Expo over the years and noticed less and less interest, less and less participation. … Alaska’s heavy industries are for the most part booming and some, i.e. oil and mining, have huge projects waiting to go. Service and equipment providers need an annual forum to meet their old and potentially new customers, display their company’s abilities and introduce new products and technologies,” Webb said. “The exhibitors’ booths and displays are the major component of Pac Com Expo along with their demonstrations and technical sessions.”

“Way back in 1983 when I first joined the Alliance as a board member, we decided that we must focus on 1) meaningful actions, 2) providing information and 3) providing ‘fun’ networking for our organization to succeed. We did it. It worked.” Webb is following the same mandate with Pac Com.

Key hours will be 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., when Vince Vance is performing and the Mardi Gras buffet is open — “fried catfish, BBQ ribs, giant Denali Cream Puffs and many other goodies.”

Webb saw Vince Vance & the Valiants perform in Atlanta: “They were great. They are hilarious. … We booked them on the spot. They will play on stage (24 foot x 40 foot big). …Vince tends to take the show to the audience.”

No host bars, espresso, coffee and sodas will be available throughout the expo, which starts at 11 a.m. and ends at 7 p.m.

Webb would also like to put a large, heated tent outside the George M. Sullivan Arena, where Pac Com will be held, for a heavy equipment display. He’s looking for a tent and a heater company that wants to “show off their equipment.”

Pac Com will not be open to the public or advertised in general media, but rather publicized through industry associations and publications. Registration at the door requires an invitation or proof the person works in an Alaska heavy industry, Webb said, noting his staff is in the process of setting up online registration.

For more information call (907) 272-5634 or e-mail [email protected].

—Kay Cashman