Program Description (Q & A):

Q: What is the WTCGP Program “International Design & Engineering Consortium”?

A: The purpose of the Consortium is to work together to seek opportunities to provide engineering services to the international community. The goal is to design, deliver and support infrastructure development projects from local technical services to international landmark projects. By combining expertise from the Philadelphia region, this organization can lead the field in project management and services. Working from the very start of the project, the Consortium will provide the initial concept, plan funding, review regulatory and environmental compliance, and provide project management through delivery as needed. With engineering expertise from an extensive network, whatever the territory or the technical challenges, the Consortium can provide global services.

Q: Who is eligible to participate in the program?

A: In order to be a member of the International Design & Engineering Consortium, participants must be CEOs or other senior company representatives. CEOs may have other representatives participate depending on travel schedule limitations and on topic. Companies must be Corporate members of the World Trade Center of Greater Philadelphia with a current paid WTCGP membership. Consortium participation is reserved for companies that are directly engaged in international engineering; it is not for service providers (banks, law, accounting, consulting, freight forwarding or other service firms, etc.) intending to sell their services to the organization’s participants. The WTCGP reserves the right of membership selection and/or refusal.

Q: How often is the program offered?

A: Members of the Consortium will meet approximately six times a year. Each discussion will focus on a different topic (alternative views and experiences on a specific topic are invited in order to engage discussion). The format includes presentations by specialists and group roundtable discussions.

Q: How do companies benefit from the program?

A: The World Trade Center of Greater Philadelphia will facilitate the program and seek business opportunities for the Consortium. Among the benefits of the membership in this group are:

• participation in a forum for select companies with common business issues;
• direct exchange of knowledge and actual experiences in setting up and running an international operation or business activity;
• gain introductions and connections to other senior engineering executives;
• participation in presentations by and introductions to international business specialists;
• inside perspectives and sharing of information on new policies and trends;
• shared experiences and pooled knowledge to maximize returns and avoid mistakes;
• exchange of information on available projects, resources and markets.

Q: How can I join the program?

A: If you would like to be considered for the International Design & Engineering Consortium, please contact Dino Ramos, Director – Trade Services at the WTCGP.