About MindSurf 2009

Benchmark Learning has long been recognized as a leader in the training industry for IT and Developer technologies but has lacked exposure in their recently expanded course offerings. In order to reach out to new audiences and showcase their innovative opportunities in Business Analysis, Project Management, Professional Business Skills, Leadership and Management, Microsoft Office and SharePoint for Business Users, Benchmark Learning developed MindSurf, a one-day educational conference for business professionals in the Minneapolis area.

Flexible and Fun

On September 24, MindSurf attendees were greeted and energized by Benchmark Learning event staff dressed in Hawaiian shirts. Benchmark Learning received positive feedback from attendees for planning a flexible conference schedule that allowed them to explore a variety of session topics—both technical and non-technical. Attendees were not expected to register for sessions in advance nor were they constrained to attend sessions from the same track all day.

"I am excited to try a few of the tips and tricks I learned at the conference. You can work with a program for years and only scratch the surface of its capabilities." said MindSurf attendee Casey Boe.

Great Sessions

Offering a total of six tracks and 24 sessions, MindSurf 2009 spread knowledge of innovative technologies and welcomed more than 250 business professionals. This years event even included three bonus sessions, providing additional learning opportunities for individuals choosing to do so. Cali Resslers' and Jody Thompsons' keynote address, “Results-Only Work Environment (ROWE)”, was also highly appreciated and offered individuals an insight into opposing management strategies. As creators of ROWE, Cali and Jody have experienced the advantages of this business strategy and even helped implement it at Best Buy.

MindSurf 2009 Waves:

Business Analysis
Project Management
Professional Business Skills
Leadership and Management
Microsoft Office
SharePoint for Business Users

Less time, low cost, and lots to walk away with!

We know it is hard to get away from the office. We also know that now, more than ever, businesses are trying to stretch their budgets further. That is why we created this conference as a one-day affordable place to learn about so many topics.

Networking Opportunities
You never know where the next career opportunity will appear. The Business professional sitting next to you may just be the ticket to advancing your career. MindSurf offered a number of networking opportunities with speakers, vendors and other attendees, including a Happy Hour filled with good food, good drinks and good conversation.

Great Food
A day away from the office is great, but a day filled with great food is even better. From the breakfast to the snacks between sessions and especially the lunch, MindSurf did not send attendees away hungry!

Prize Drawing

Benchmark Learning and all of the MindSurf sponsors gave away a number of great prizes including:

22" Coby LCD TV with Built-in DVD
60-minute Flip Video Camera
Complimentary Overnight Weekend Getaway
Arc Mouse
Wireless Keyboard
Microsoft Project Professional 2007
Windows Vista Ultimate
$50 Best Buy Gift Card (2)
$50 Premiere Choice Gift Card
$50 Gift Card (2)
$100 Gift Card