DCD Connect: Virginia (November 6-7) is North America’s leading event that connects the cloud & colocation ecosystem to plan, build, design & operate next-gen digital infrastructure. 

Over 1,800 senior decision-makers are set to attend the event, which will be hosted at a luxury resort in the heart of Data Center Alley in Northern Virginia. 

JSA interviewed DCD conference organizers to gain tips on making the most of the conference:

JSA: Tell us what makes the DCD>Connect | Virginia conference a must-do event.

DCD: Attendees can look forward to participating in an increased number of debates, workshops, panels, and briefings, alongside numerous opportunities for both formal and informal networking — ensuring your time away from the office is both enjoyable and valuable, far beyond what a typical trade show offers.

This year’s highlights include a new closed-door Leadership Summit for colocation executives, a pickleball tournament, and a dedicated Under 30s Happy Hour. There’s truly something for everyone!

JSA: How do you suggest attendees approach their personal agendas for DCD>Connect | Virginia?

DCD: DCD isn’t your typical trade show. While you’ll enjoy familiar features such as an action-packed show floor and engaging content sessions, we encourage you to fully embrace the unique DCD Connect experience. Here’s how:

• Review your personal agenda: Our expert team at DCD has taken the guesswork out of planning your time onsite. Before the event, you’ll receive a personal agenda tailored to your interests and procurement needs, featuring invite-only sessions like lunch briefings, workshops, technology exchanges, and private dinners. These sessions are designed to help you connect with like-minded individuals, share ideas, and discover new technologies and best practices relevant to you.
• Utilize the event app: The event app, launching two weeks prior to the event, will allow you to view all scheduled sessions, set up meetings with over 90 event partners, and message other attendees. It’s an excellent tool for staying informed and connected. Your personal agenda will also be accessible via the app, making it easy to keep track of your schedule.
• Make time for informal networking: DCD Connect places a strong emphasis on informal, enjoyable, and natural networking. The agenda is packed with open sessions that foster connections in a relaxed setting, such as a morning 5k run, a pickleball tournament, and Under 30s cocktail hour. Be sure to take advantage of these opportunities to have a great time and expand your professional network.
• Consult the DCD Concierge team: Our dedicated Concierge team is available to help you make the most of your time at the event. Feel free to reach out to them for assistance at [email protected].

JSA: How can attendees optimize networking opportunities at DCD>Connect | Virginia?

DCD: The DCD Connect agenda is filled with small-group networking opportunities. Be sure to participate in the invite-only sessions you’ve been selected for, such as lunch briefings and technology exchanges. These sessions are curated based on your interests and are a fantastic way to meet like-minded professionals in a relaxed environment.

Don’t miss the Icebreaker Party on November 7, either, with live music & open bars! 

JSA: What are some of the key locations within the DCD>Connect | Virginia conference venue?

DCD: This year’s event will return to the Lansdowne Resort & Spa, which features a world-class golf course and spa facilities.

• Day One: Activities such as lunch briefings, debates, and technology exchanges will primarily take place in the breakout rooms.
• Day Two: The focus shifts to the action-packed Show Floor, where three content stages will feature back-to-back sessions, and over 90 event partners will showcase their latest solutions. The co-located Leadership Summit will take place on Day Two in a breakout room.

A map will be available in the event app, and if you have any questions, the DCD Concierge team will be happy to assist you.

JSA: What are your top 3 tips for making the most of DCD>Connect | Virginia 2024?

DCD: 

1. Attend the sessions in your personal agenda—they’ve been specifically designed for you!
2. Explore the full event agenda in the app ahead of time to ensure you don’t miss anything.
3. Engage in informal networking opportunities, like the happy hour and 5k run, to enjoy your time out of the office and meet new people!

To learn more about DCD>Connect | Virginia and view the agenda, visit the conference website.