WEST 2018

What is WEST?

The premier naval conference and exposition on the West Coast, WEST is now in its 28th year of bringing military and industry leaders together. Co-sponsored by AFCEA International and the U.S. Naval Institute, WEST is the only event in which the makers of platforms and the designers of technologies can network, discuss and demonstrate their solutions in a single locale.

One recurring highlight of WEST is a town hall discussion among the Chief of Naval Operations, the Marine Corps Commandant and Coast Guard Commandant. In addition to the main program, WEST offers two Engagement Theaters; smaller, more intimate venues in which military, government and industry professionals will drill deeper into specific topics and issues. More information about WEST speakers and panel presentations is available online. 

Who attends WEST?

WEST connects the industry professionals who design and build the platforms, equipment and weapons with the designers of communications and technical systems. To complete their missions successfully, more than 150,000 professionals in the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard who live in the San Diego area depend on the open discussions and valuable networking WEST provides. Senior military and government officials talk directly to the operators to gain valuable feedback directly from them. Industry leaders attend because they can connect with decision makers and operators over the three-day event.

When and where does WEST take place?

The event takes place February 6-8, 2018, at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego, California.

How much does it cost to attend WEST and how do I register?

Click on the registration fees page.
Register for WEST through the online registration form or on site.

Where do I pick up my badge?

All badges must be picked up on site at the registration desk. All registrants will receive a confirmation notice via email. If you do not receive a confirmation, please contact the WEST Registration Center at (703) 449-6418 or westregistration@spargoinc.com.

Is parking available?

A limited amount of parking is available on site at the San Diego Convention Center. Additional information about area parking is available online.

What is the recommended attire for the WEST conference?

Attendees: For all WEST events, professional business attire is suggested. Military personnel are encouraged to wear the appropriate uniform of the day.
Speakers: Active duty military speakers are encouraged to wear khaki uniforms with ribbons (USN), Service B “Bravo” (USMC), or Tropical Blue (USCG). Civilian presenters are encouraged to wear equivalent professional business attire.

Where can I find conference approval memos?

Approval memos will be posted on the WEST 2018 website when available.
Links here for the 3 below (bottom of page): http://www.doncio.navy.mil/ContentView.aspx?id=9369

• DON IT West Coast Conference
• DON Data and Analytics Consortium
• Navy-Marine Corps Spectrum Summit

Who should I contact if I need assistance at the conference?

AFCEA and the U.S. Naval Institute support the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Attendees with special needs should call (703) 631-6126 or email events@afcea.org.

Are their dates scheduled for future WEST conferences?

Yes, WEST 2019 is scheduled for February 13-15, 2019, and WEST 2020 will take place March 2-4, 2020. Both events will be held at the San Diego Convention Center.

What additional professional development opportunities are available?

WEST’s commitment to professional development includes keynotes, panels and special presentations on the issues affecting today’s Sea Service community.

Can I earn reserve credits for attending WEST?

Members of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard Reserve have been authorized to earn one point retirement credit for attendance. Reserve and National Guard (Army and Air Force) personnel may participate on a non-pay credit basis with approval of their unit commanders. Bring unit forms to the conference operations office located in the Knowledge Center on the exhibit floor for validation.

How can I exhibit at WEST?

Exhibit information is available online, or contact:

WEST 2018 Exposition Management
c/o SPARGO Inc.
11212 Waples Mill Road, Suite 104
Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: 703-631-6200
Fax: 703-818-9177
westexhibits@spargoinc.com