A New England connection is not required to attend the Coalition of New England Companies for Trade (CONECT) Trade and Transportation Conference, scheduled for April 2-4 in the historic seaside town of Newport, R.I. The 17th annual "T&T" (as the locals call it) will offer excellent educational value for anyone involved in international trade and transportation, no matter where they do business.

Speakers include high-level officials from government and regulatory agencies, trade attorneys, carriers, importers, and exporters. The first day will focus on supply chain challenges, port and rail infrastructure, and sustainability measures for transporting cargo. The second day will be devoted to trade regulation and policy and will include a global economic outlook. The final morning will include a guest speaker from Washington, as well as CONECT Washington Counsel (and DC VELOCITY Thought Leader) Peter Friedmann's annual, fast-paced "DC Wrap-Up" session.

"T&T" also provides exceptional networking opportunities. Attendees typically include importers, exporters, freight forwarders, customs brokers, carriers from all modes, port authorities, government agencies, customs attorneys, and insurance companies.

For more information, go to www.conect.org.