The National Drilling Association (NDA) will hold its annual convention and DRILLEXPO trade show at the Renaissance Vinoy Resort on Tampa Bay located in St. Petersburg, Fla., Oct. 18-21, 2001. "Sunny St. Peters-burg really is the perfect location for NDA members to enjoy the ideal climate while they take advantage of an outstanding program for this year's convention," says association president Alan Garrard.

According to convention chairperson, Lisa Crimaldi, "This convention agenda is one of the most industrious ever and is focused on drilling contractors in the environmental and geotechnical field."

Charles Vander Kooi will serve as keynote speaker. "His topic, people management, will focus on how to get the most from your most important asset - people," Crimaldi adds. Vander Kooi will address principles used by successful contracting firms to hire and retain the best people, attitudes that are costing you money, and how to build a team that will work together.

NDA will introduce roundtable sessions at which drilling contractors will address subjects such as methods to accomplish necessary maintenance, maintenance scheduling, disposal of waste products, who performs in-house maintenance, record keeping and costs.

Another highlight of the 2001 Convention will be the DRILLEXPO trade show where manufacturer and affiliate members have an opportunity to meet and talk to drilling contractors about the latest product developments for the geotechnical and environmental drilling industry. Manufacturers will also have the opportunity to participate in the DCDMA (Diamond Core Drill Manufacturers Association) committee meeting.

The golf tournament will be at the Vinoy Golf Club, located on beautiful Snell Isle. This course has won many awards including Greens of Distinction, the Gold Tee and Europe's Relais du Golf.

Optional activities have been planned for spouses and guests. Participants will be able to visit the world-renowned Salvador Dali Art Museum. Those opting for this trip will also get to shop the boutiques of downtown St. Petersburg as well as the new BayWalk. Also offered is a half-day sail on the Gulf of Mexico from St. Pete Beach. Shelling on Shell Island and dolphin sighting will be the main attractions of this charter.

Also scheduled are social events to provide plenty of time for networking. The President's Reception will be held Friday evening at the Vinoy, while the Gala Reception and Dinner on Saturday evening will take place at the Vinoy Golf Club. For more information about the NDA's Annual Convention, call or write NDA at 6089 Frantz Road, Suite 101, Dublin, Ohio 43017; Tel: 614-798-8080; Fax: 614-798-2255; or Web site at www.nda4u.com.