Each year during this time, the eyes of the world's simulation and training industry turn to Metro Orlando for the annual Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference (I/ITSEC), the world's largest modeling, simulation and training conference. Nearly 20,000 attendees from over 57 countries come to Orlando to see and learn about the most recent advances in this important industry sector.
Orlando is widely known as the "national center for simulation" for several reasons:
- home to the nation's military procurement simulation commands;
- over 150 simulation companies;
- employing more than 12,500 Central Floridians; and
- a Gross Regional Product of $3 billion.
The significance of this industry to our local economy cannot be overstated, and the EDC works closely with community partners to ensure a strong presence at the annual I/ITSEC trade show, which is held at the Orange County Convention Center.
Once again, the EDC partnered with the Orlando-headquartered National Center for Simulation, The University of Central Florida's Institute for Simulation & Training (IST), Florida High Tech Corridor Council and others to feature Metro Orlando's assets through a booth on the trade show floor. Demonstrations included hands-on experiences from Florida Hospital's DaVinci Robot and the latest research from IST featuring distracted driving simulators and new uses for mobile apps.
In addition, the EDC's business development team conducted several meetings each day with companies considering expansion opportunities.
