The Convention Industry Council (CIC) unanimously approved the National Business Travel Association (NBTA) as its newest member organization at its board of directors meeting on March 10, 2005. With the addition of NBTA, CIC’s 31 member organizations represent more than 100,000 individuals as well as 15,000 firms and properties involved in the meetings, conventions and exhibitions industry.

“We are confident that NBTA will bring a fresh perspective to the table,” commented Mary E. Power, CAE, president and CEO of CIC. “In addition, as travel managers increasingly become involved in corporate meetings, NBTA members will benefit from having this direct link with CIC and its member organizations.”

As NBTA members become more involved in designing and implementing corporate strategic meetings management programs, NBTA will continue to provide resources and forge alliances with experts in the meetings and conventions arena.

Joining CIC is a logical step for NBTA as we continue to offer our members the best resources and representation in the areas of strategic meetings and travel management, said Bill Connors, CTC, NBTA executive director and COO. NBTA is proud to be a CIC member association. Membership in this alliance of the world`s leading meetings and convention industry organizations will help NBTA to expand upon the synergies between our member travel managers and their meeting planner colleagues.

A meeting of the CIC board of directors is held twice each year (typically in March and October). Those interested in applying for membership with CIC can view the membership application by visiting www.conventionindustry.org. Interested candidates should be sure to review all qualifications for membership prior to submitting the application. Completed applications, including all required back-up documentation must be submitted to CIC at least thirty days prior to the board of directors meeting. For more information or questions concerning membership visit www.conventionindustry.org.