The Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), which takes place 4–7 May in Houston, and United Against Human Trafficking (UAHT) announced today a partnership to increase awareness of human trafficking.

UAHT’s mission is to increase awareness and train law enforcement, business owners and the general public about how to identify and combat human trafficking in the greater Houston community. They have trained OTC staff on human trafficking issues and identification as part of the partnership. The organization will also work with OTC to include information and messages in OTC communications before and during the conference. UAHT will also have an on-site presence in the exhibition.

“Since 1969, OTC has made a significant impact on the Houston economy,” said OTC 2015 Chairman Ed Stokes. “However, we realize that our influence needs to extend beyond boosting business for the local restaurants and hotels that our attendees and exhibitors visit. As such, we are partnering with United Against Human Trafficking and look forward to supporting their efforts to increase awareness about the important issue of human trafficking.”

The ongoing partnership will begin this year and is part of OTC’s commitment to serving the greater Houston community, which also includes activities such as the Energy Education Institute, a daylong workshop for teachers grades 4–12 and a STEM Event for high school students ages 15 or older, and the Annual OTC Dinner which has donated a total of $925,000 to charitable organizations over the past four years.

“We are so excited to share the news of this partnership. The Offshore Technology Conference is one of the largest conferences in the world and attracts attendees from 130 countries. This partnership will allow us to greatly expand the message on human trafficking,” said Misa Nguyen, UAHT program director.

“This important partnership opens the door for us to face a complex issue and work together to improve our communities,” added Stokes.