Discover the Natural Beauty Beyond the Strip, Support Local Veterans & Kick Off METALCON 2025 with Purpose

METALCON attendees are invited to start their Las Vegas experience a day early by connecting with nature and giving back. On Monday, Oct. 20, join a memorable half-day adventure exploring the awe-inspiring Valley of Fire, led by Corporal Adam Bautz, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.), founder and lead guide of Outdoor Travel Tours.

Just 50 miles from Las Vegas in the heart of the Mojave Desert, the Valley of Fire spans more than 40,000 acres of vibrant Aztec red sandstone, offering stunning landscape, unique vegetation and wildlife, and a rich cultural history. This adventure will be customized for METALCON guests of all abilities, following custom routes created by Corporal Bautz himself—an experience designed to inspire, educate and leave lasting memories. Transportation will be provided, ensuring a seamless experience.

A graduate of the Semper Fi & America’s Fund (The Fund) Apprenticeship Program, Corporal Bautz knows firsthand the power of transformation. After serving four years as an infantry machine gunner in the USMC, he faced significant challenges transitioning to civilian life. He found healing and reflection in nature and the great outdoors—a place that helped him rediscover purpose and overcome obstacles. Today, he shares the therapeutic power of nature with visitors from around the world.

Corporal Bautz and his wife, Nicole, joined METALCON in 2023 for a special charitable check presentation ceremony for The Fund. This year, we are proud to directly support his mission—with $50 from each tour registration donated to Semper Fi & America’s Fund, continuing their important work supporting U.S. service members, veterans and military families.

The Fund’s Apprenticeship Program empowers veterans to find new passion, direction, and purpose by connecting them with mentors and offering vocational education and apprenticeship opportunities. This program helps service members discover meaningful career paths, including trades and small business ventures.

“We are truly honored to support Corporal Bautz and The Fund,” said Judy Geller, Vice President of Tradeshows at METALCON. “Through his passion and dedication, he helps others discover the better side of Las Vegas—a side steeped in the rich history, stunning natural beauty and the true spirit of Las Vegas. We’re grateful he’ll be sharing that experience with our METALCON community this year, and we look forward to our continued partnership with The Fund.”

Explore a side of Las Vegas few ever see. Hike with purpose. Give back while making unforgettable memories. Learn more and register here: metalcon.com/valley-of-fire-tour

Share:

More Posts from the METALCON blog:

METALCON Announces Show Highlights & Programming for Las Vegas

METALCON announces show highlights for this year’s anticipated annual conference and tradeshow, taking place Tuesday, Oct. 21 through Thursday, Oct. 23 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Registration is now open! From intensive pre-show workshops and certification programs beginning on Monday, Oct. 20 to 35+ free educational sessions conveniently located inside the exhibit hall to inspiring keynotes, top industry experts will share their knowledge with attendees who are eligible to earn a year’s worth of continuing education credits (CEUs), including

Read More »

Top Advantages of Metal Buildings in Real Estate

As the real estate industry experiences shifts driven by economic factors, developers and investors see metal buildings as a smart, cost-effective solution. Dive into the top advantages of buildings in today’s real estate market and discover more evolving trends and advantages of metal construction with METALCON.

Read More »

METALCON Newsletter April 2025

METALCON HEADS TO VEGAS – LOCK IN YOUR SAVINGS NOW! In just six months, the global metal construction and design community will gather in Las Vegas for three days of innovation, education, and high-impact networking at METALCON 2025. With Super Saver Pricing in effect through May 8, now’s the best time to register and save $75 on a Total Experience or Design District Pass. Plus, add in-depth workshops to your registration and enjoy a special discount with our Value Pass option. New

Read More »

Air Barrier vs Vapor Barrier: How Do They Differ?

Air barriers and vapor barriers are not the same—and understanding how they work together is essential for building energy-efficient, fire-resistant structures. As rebuilding ramps up across CA and other fire-prone regions, it’s never been more important to get it right. Read more.

Read More »

Economic Advisor & Market Trends Expert to Deliver Keynote at METALCON 2025

Alex Chausovsky, a leading economic advisor, market researcher and future trends analyst, will deliver a highly anticipated keynote address at METALCON 2025, the premier global event for the metal construction and design industry. His presentation, entitled “Economic and Labor Market Update – What to Expect in 2025 & Beyond” will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 9.00 a.m., in Las Vegas. With more than 20 years of experience in economics, industrial manufacturing, automation, talent and workforce dynamics and emerging

Read More »