Globalization will be a key theme for Bearing Specialists Assn. members as they head to their annual meeting May 14–17 at the Fairmont Hotel in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Keynote speaker Scott Benfield, of Benfield Consulting, will report on his research into the world bearing marketplace and the impact of globalization. During the meeting, Benfield will also moderate a panel discussion on the bearing industry. Panelists will include Dieter Kuetemeier, president and CEO of FAG Bearings; Sten Malmstrom, president of SKF; and Constance Holmes of the National Mining Assn.

In another session, Malmstrom, who is also vice chairman of the American Bearing Manufacturers Assn., will give an update on the state of the bearings industry. Also on the agenda is Steven Gold, vice president of the National Assn. of Manufacturers and executive director of NAM's Coalition for the Future of Manufacturing. He will update BSA members on NAM's activities.

The Conference Table Session is scheduled for Tuesday, May 17 from 8 a.m. to noon. The meetings will permit manufacturing and distribution leaders to meet one-on-one for informal discussions regarding mutual concerns.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in several networking opportunities along with social activities such as golf and tennis.

For more information, visit www.bsahome.org.