Data is changing the way the world makes decisions about heavy equipment. The companies that are able to turn data into insights are winning.

EquipmentWatch, the world leader in data, software and insights for the heavy equipment industry, launched Traction: The Data-Driven Equipment Conference (exploretraction.com), an inaugural two-day customer event designed to educate, inform and inspire leaders in the heavy equipment industry.

"We created Traction because we believe it's time for a new industry gathering. A gathering of the brightest, hungriest and most innovative minds in the industry," said Garrett Schemmel, vice president of EquipmentWatch. "We look forward to bringing the industry together to discuss, learn and debate in an environment of pure insights and product training."

Traction is targeted to data-driven leaders from across the heavy equipment landscape, including: construction companies, financial institutions, equipment dealers, and manufacturers.

By attending Traction, event attendees will:

• Gain actionable insights into the trends shaping the equipment market
• Receive product training on the EquipmentWatch platform 
• See how peers are creating a competitive advantage using the EquipmentWatch data and software   
• Get a first-look at new, cutting-edge technology and software solutions for the heavy equipment industry 
• Receive unprecedented access to network with industry thought leaders

Sessions will include topics on market trends, innovation - including drones, augmented reality, and session titles like: The Future of Marketing for Heavy Equipment Manufacturers, Next Generation: Tech in the Finance Industry, The Urgent Need for Machine Verification Standards, Deep Dive Q&A - Large Fleet Managers, Understanding the True Cost of Machine (Un)Utilization, and more.

In addition to conference programs and a showcase of trusted partner products and services, Traction will host a number of pre-conference activities including the Traction 2017 Hackathon on Tuesday, November 7 from 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. The 12-hour competition has been designed for coders, developers, innovators, and makers interested in leveraging data and technology that will disrupt, enhance, or solve a major problem in the heavy equipment industry.  Attendees will join forces with other participants and flush out their ideas into solid plans that will then be presented on the main stage to a panel of expert judges and an audience of industry leaders. A variety of prizes, including $2,500 will be awarded.

Another pre-conference activity is the invite-only Traction Executive Summit taking place Tuesday, November 7 from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. The Summit will pull together the most inspiring and ambitious minds in the heavy equipment industry to connect for uniquely meaningful conversations, provide a space for tailor-made programming, thought-provoking panels, and executive networking. 

Traction: The Data-Driven Equipment Conference will take place November 7-8 at the Loews Atlanta Hotel. To register to attend, visit exploretraction.com. The event is expected to sell out.