Where can you learn about the latest developments in materials handling equipment, radio frequency identification (RFID) and distribution operations all in one place? At the upcoming North America 2004 (NA 2004) tradeshow sponsored by Material Handling Industry of America (www.na2004.org), that's where.

NA 2004, held in Cleveland, Ohio at the end of this month (March 29 – April 1), will provide extensive educational programs along with hundreds of exhibits.

Kicking off Monday morning is a forum called "Frontiers of Operational Excellence Across the Extended Enterprise." It reviews the ARC Advisory Group's business model designed to improve all aspects of a supply chain.

Also added to this year's show are two forums on RFID and logistics security. "RFID Update 2004: Nine Months & Counting" examines the latest applications, current standards and experiences of early adopters. And "Securing the Logistics of Global Trade" explores the current practices and developing plans for ensuring international supply chain security.

Weekend workshops on materials handling fundamentals as well as a range of seminars throughout the week will also be offered.

NA 2004 attendees can expect to "interact with peers, ask questions and then go out on the show floor to see solutions in action and reinforce what [they have] learned in the educational sessions," promises Dick Ward, MHIA's executive vice president of professional development.