Events
Here’s what attendees should expect at this year’s National Multifamily Housing Council OPTECH Conference and Expo in National Harbor, Maryland.
By: Julianne Goodfellow and Sarah Yaussi, NMHC, and Valerie M. Sargent, Broadband Communities
This year’s NMHC OPTECH Conference and Expo promises to be the most groundbreaking yet, bringing together rental housing professionals from across the country to explore the intersection of technology, innovation, and policy. Plan to join NMHC October 21-23, 2024, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland.
This year’s conference focuses on the technological transformation reshaping rental housing, from artificial intelligence (AI) to data management, broadband connectivity, and cybersecurity. NMHC is also unveiling a new initiative at OPTECH as they double down on technology and transformation. You won’t want to miss this important launch! If you haven’t registered yet, there’s still time. Details on how are below.
Spotlight on advocacy: Real estate tech is a force for good
There is a proliferation of legislative and regulatory attention at the intersection of technology and real estate.
This year’s conference marks the first time we’re bringing OPTECH to Capitol Hill and Capitol Hill to OPTECH. We’re welcoming key policymakers including U.S. Senator Mark Warner, and Federal Communications Commissioner Brendan Carr, to discuss our advocacy priorities. The inaugural OPTECH Advocacy Day will bring rental housing leaders to Capitol Hill to show policymakers how real estate tech can support positive outcomes for all real estate stakeholders — from residents, to operators, to developers, to investors, and beyond. Our message will focus on AI, broadband connectivity, cybersecurity and data privacy.
FUTURESlab: Showcasing innovation
For those interested in cutting-edge tech, OPTECH 2024 will introduce FUTURESlab, a brand-new space that transcends the traditional exhibit hall, which will be housed separately. Designed to be an interactive experience, the FUTURESlab will feature a hands-on showcase, including a unique “tech petting zoo.” In this space, attendees can interact with some of the latest technological innovations, such as negative carbon concrete and construction materials made from recycled solar panels. This pavilion-like setup will feature solutions that go beyond software, highlighting advances that have the potential to reshape the infrastructure of apartment communities.
FUTURESlab will also be home to Startup Alley, where attendees can engage with early-stage companies driving innovation in multifamily tech. These startups offer a glimpse into what’s next for the industry, whether it’s AI-powered management platforms, sustainability initiatives, or enhanced resident experience tools. In addition, the lab will be recording live podcasts, giving attendees the chance to hear directly from some of the industry’s most influential voices.
Another exciting feature of the FUTURESlab is the chance to interact with Ameca, a commanding AI figure who represents the future of AI-driven resident interaction. Ameca will first be part of a real-time conversation as part of one of OPTECH’s kickoff keynotes. Erica Dhawan, founder and CEO of Cotential, will also keynote, advising attendees on the future of teamwork and leadership in the digital era, including how AI can be a powerful tool for enhancing collaboration and driving peak performance. And don’t miss Brendan Wallace, CEO and chief investment officer of Fifth Wall. Brendan co-founded both Identified and Cabify, and has led more than 60 angel investments including Bonobos, Dollar Shave Club, Lyft, SpaceX, Clutter, and Philz Coffee.
AI grabs the spotlight OPTECH 2024
Artificial intelligence is set to be the defining theme of NMHC OPTECH 2024, as rental housing providers accelerate adoption of AI-driven solutions. From resident experiences to operational efficiencies, to addressing some of our nation’s long-term housing challenges, AI is revolutionizing how apartment communities function. This year’s OPTECH will dive deep into the transformational role AI is playing, exploring everything from predictive analytics to smart building systems. With AI rapidly changing the landscape, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with thought leaders and technology experts who are at the forefront of this revolution.
As technology reshapes everything from resident management to leasing processes, the stakes have never been higher. In addition to AI, key sessions will address cybersecurity and data privacy, two critical areas that continue to play a significant role as the industry embraces digital transformation. As more multifamily companies adopt AI and other technologies, securing sensitive data and ensuring compliance with evolving privacy regulations remains essential. OPTECH 2024 will offer expert guidance on how property owners and operators can protect their digital infrastructures while navigating the complexities of this new era.
Broadband connectivity will also be a key conversation as rental housing providers and broadband providers work together to ensure residents have reliable, quality internet connections. This dialogue is important particularly as the FCC engages in the space.
Workshops on the future of technological transformation
Monday’s agenda will include a series of important workshops followed by the opening general session with Ameca and some quality time with industry partners in the expo. It will be hard to decide upon the workshops centered around data-driven renter insights and resident experiences, robust AI governance policies with generative AI, adopting resident service fee standardization, smart living digital ecosystems, and establishing effective data cleaning processes. Companies with multiple attendees should divide and conquer!
A broader scope for 2024
What makes this year’s NMHC OPTECH conference unique is the sheer breadth of its content. In addition to AI, cybersecurity, and broadband connectivity, the conference will dive into other areas critical to the future of the industry, including sustainability, resident experience, and smart buildings. These themes are woven into the event’s agenda, reflecting the multifaceted challenges and opportunities that today’s multifamily professionals face.
Seasoned OPTECH attendees know that the opening pitches are some of the most exciting sessions, highlighting the up-and-coming companies actively pioneering innovative new industry solutions. Whether it’s understanding the impact of AI on leasing processes, exploring the latest in smart home technologies, or diving deep into data-driven decision-making, there will be no shortage of content to inspire and inform attendees.
Networking and collaboration opportunities
Of course, OPTECH wouldn’t be complete without the chance to network and collaborate with peers. Whether in the hallways between sessions, at the FUTURESlab, or during the numerous networking events, attendees will have ample opportunities to make valuable connections. As the multifamily industry continues to evolve, building strong relationships is always key to navigating the changes ahead.
Register today
As technological transformation continues to accelerate, NMHC OPTECH 2024 provides the perfect platform for rental housing leaders to come together, share insights, and shape the future of multifamily.
Mark your calendars for October 21-23, 2024, and join NMHC at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. Don’t miss out on your chance to be part of the conversation that will define the next chapter of technology in the multifamily industry.
Sarah Yaussi is vice president of Business Strategy for the National Multifamily Housing Council and can be reached at syaussi@nmhc.org. Julianne Goodfellow is vice president of Government Affairs for the National Multifamily Housing Council and can be reached at jgoodfellow@nmhc.org. Valerie M. Sargent is a multifamily speaker, trainer and executive consultant, and is the multifamily news correspondent for Broadband Communities. Contact her at http://www.valeriemsargent.com. For more information, visit http://www.nmhc.org or http://www.bbcmag.com.
How is the US connectivity landscape shifting in 2024? Join the operators and their communities in discussion at Broadband Communities Summit West live in San Diego.
