NEW ORLEANS—NATE UNITE 2016 was one for the record books, according to the National Association of Tower Erectors, as the organization’s annual conference set new records for both registered attendees and total exhibitors.

According to NATE, 1,614 individuals registered for NATE UNITE 2016 in New Orleans, surpassing the previous high-mark of 1,564 at NATE UNITE 2015 in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

In addition, NATE UNITE 2016 featured more exhibitors than previously in the conference’s 21-year history, with a total of 137 exhibitors taking part.

“The record-setting accomplishments of NATE UNITE 2016 are a testament to NATE’s ability to evolve along with the wireless industry,” said Todd Schlekeway, NATE executive director.

The organization reports they are already working toward NATE UNITE 2017, which will take place in Fort Worth, Texas, with a date to be announced later.

NEW ORLEANS—Kevin Hayden, president of Hayden Tower Services, and Diane Mueller, sales representative for Primus Electronics, were the guest of honors during the NATE UNITE 2016 Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, Feb. 23. Hayden was the recipient of the Bill Carson Lifetime Service Award, while Mueller was presented with the Distinguished Service Award.

Kevin Hayden

The Bill Carson Lifetime Service Award recognizes individuals who have made significant and long-term contributions to the National Association of Tower Erector’s mission and has served the association for a minimum of 15 years. Hayden was a founding member of NATE in 1995 and has served as chairman and director for the Board of Directors, as well as a variety committee leadership roles.

Dianne Mueller

Mueller was this year’s recipient of the Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes past or present committee members who “has demonstrated direct and individual contributions to the NATE mission.” Mueller has been a NATE Member Service Committee volunteer for 18 years. She has also helped form the first NATE Regional Meeting in Sept. 2015 and assisted the NATE administrative staff with the NATE UNITE conference.

The NATE UNITE 2016 conference is currently underway in New Orleans.