Those wanting to gain insights regarding rural business development and cooperatives may want to attend the Tortilla Industry Association (TIA)’s 23rd Annual Convention and Trade Exposition. Acting Deputy Under Secretary Judith Canales, US Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s Office of Rural Development, will present the keynote address at the event, which takes place Sept. 10-11 at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, NV.

"The fact we are able to attract a speaker of the caliber of Judith Canales is an indication of the growth and importance of our industry within the US economy,” said TIA’s CEO Jim Kabbani, noting that US tortilla sales exceeded $11 billion last year.

Ms. Canales most recently served as administrator for rural business-cooperative services with the USDA agency before Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced her promotion to acting deputy under sectary April 30. Previously, she worked as the executive director of the International Hispanic Network, a national organization of Hispanic city manager.

The annual TIA event is designed for tortilla, flatbread, wrap and chip processors as well as suppliers for the industry. During the trade show, which runs from noon to 5 p.m. Monday and from noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday, attendees can learn about advances in tortilla production technology, ingredients, packaging and more from a variety of suppliers. 

For additional information, visit www.tortilla-info.com.