Health and Safety Plan

TechNet Augusta 2022 will be held in-person at the Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center. Photo ID and proof of full vaccination required.

8/12/2022 - recent updated guidelines from the CDC do not change the event policies listed below.

AFCEA International is committed to holding a rewarding 2022 TechNet Augusta at the Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center in Augusta, GA, on August 16-19, 2022. Our COVID-19 Safety Plan is a living document that will continue to evolve as we follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and work closely with the Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center, vendors, overflow hotels, and other properties to create a safer experience for participants.

All participants must abide by our Well-being Code of Conduct while attending the conference.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  Should Participants wear masks?

Yes, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends masks be worn by all individuals in large indoor public gatherings, regardless of vaccination status. Large gatherings, including conferences, where the frequency and duration of close contact between attendees is increased, pose higher risk. Continuation of indoor masking when risks may be higher may offer some mitigation.

We ask attendees to please bring your own facial covering. A limited supply will be available at main registration upon request.

  Will proof of vaccination be required?

Yes. Proof of full vaccination is currently required to attend the in-person event. Therefore, each attendee must pick up their own badge. Badges will not be distributed without proof of vaccination.

  How will proof of vaccination be verified?

Participants will show proof of vaccination onsite during the normal badge pick-up process. Please have your government issued photo ID and physical copy of your vaccine card ready. A picture on your mobile device or proof of vaccination app is also acceptable.

  What qualifies as full vaccination?

Individuals must have received the second dose of a two-dose vaccine series (Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca-SK Bio, Novavax) or a single-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson/Janssen at least two weeks prior to the event. Only the vaccines noted above, which have been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), shall be acceptable to meet the vaccination requirement.

  Are there any exceptions?

Yes, current state and local regulations allow participants who are not able to be fully vaccinated to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test in lieu of proof of full vaccination. Photo ID must also be presented. Masks may be required for unvaccinated participants based on federal, state, or local regulations in place on the conference dates.

Test results must be presented prior to entry into the conference. Testing must be conducted no earlier than:

  • 24 hours before event start time for an antigen test
  • 48 hours before event start time for a PCR test

A printed document from the test provider or laboratory, or an electronic test result displayed on a phone are required.

The document must include:

  • Full name
  • Type of test performed (PCR or antigen)
  • Date of test
  • Negative test result

Please Note: Self-administered or “home” tests without independent third-party verification are NOT acceptable. We will not accept home kit test cards.

  Will the conference content be available virtually?

No, we do not have sufficient demand to host a dedicated virtual platform. We will post approved conference slides and handouts (subject to speaker permission) to the conference agenda page. Materials will be posted within a week of the conference dates.

  What can I expect at the venue?

As part of Marriott International's family of brands, the Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center has implemented new protocols and elevated practices in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The protocols are in keeping with Marriott’s high standards of cleanliness, safety, and commitment to providing excellent service.

The convention center will increase sanitization of high contact surfaces and traffic areas. Additional venue information available here: https://whattoexpect.marriott.com/agsmc and https://clean.marriott.com/.

  Are there restrictions on the number of people in the exhibit hall, in session rooms, or a networking events?

The Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center does not have any capacity limits in place currently. Social distancing is highly encouraged. We will space out the seating at all activities, where possible.

Personal Accountability Commitment

Providing a safe environment for our event participants is a top priority. Achieving this goal is a shared responsibility. By attending AFCEA’s 2022 TechNet Augusta Conference, you agree to abide by and engage in conduct that is beneficial to health and safety. This includes, but is not limited to, complying with local, state and venue regulations, wearing a facial covering in conference facilities, engaging in appropriate physical distancing, and not attending if you are not fully vaccinated or are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms.

COVID-19 Warning

We have taken enhanced health and safety measures and require all persons to follow posted instructions while attending TechNet Augusta 2022. You must agree to abide by all AFCEA and Convention Center safety protocols, follow applicable safety precautions.

An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, senior citizens and guests with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable.

By attending TechNet Augusta 2022 you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19. Help keep each other healthy.