You are invited to the NIRSC 2026 Hub Training Event
The upcoming training will take place on April 15-16, 2025, at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. This session will focus on NIRS analysis methods and resources for NIRSC calibrations used on instrument partner machines. The training will include lectures and hands-on laboratory exercises using real forage and feed samples from member laboratories. The goal is to build a solid understanding of NIRS technology, calibration management, and proper sample handling.
Key topics include:
- Sample preprocessing and scanning requirements for NIRSC calibration compatibility,
- Instrument partner participation and reference chemistry,
- Proper use and reporting of NIRSC predictions,
- Monitoring calibration performance,
- Best practices for sample preparation and scanning,
- External Validation by NIRS and Chemistry
WHEN: April 15-16, 2026
WHERE: Brehm Animal Science Building, 2506 River Dr, Knoxville, TN 37996.
Registration/Cost per Attendee:
NIRSC Member: $350.00 (MUST LOGIN AS A MEMBER TO SEE/GET THIS RATE)
Non-Member: $500.00
If you have trouble registering, please contact tina@nirsconsortium.com
Hotel:
Hampton Inn & Suites Knoxville Papermill
601 N Weisgarber Rd.
Knoxville, Tn 37919
Group Name: NIRS2026
P: 1.865.693.5400
Group Block Information:
Rooms are at a rate of $159.00 per night (plus taxes and applicable fees) per night. They can accommodate additional stay dates if needed. When making the reservation and encountering issues, please call the hotel directly so they can help if dates are outside the block. The room block will close on April 3, 2026, at 5 pm ET, reservations made after this date are not guaranteed for use with the agreed upon rate. If you do not use the link below, use the group name: “NIRS2026” to make your reservation. For reservations: https://group.hamptoninn.com/tfcfwm
Airport Information:
KNOXVILLE, TN McGhee Tyson Airport, 2055 Alcoa Hwy, Alcoa, TN 37701.
https://flyknoxville.com/
Transportation:
Transportation from and to the airport is your responsibility. Transportation to and from the hotel to the event, on the UT campus, will be provided by a UT Van- see schedule for times. If you wish to drive on your own to the event, please contact David McIntosh for parking pass arrangements.
Meals:
Breakfast provided at the hotel before we pick you up, lunch, and break snacks/drinks will be provided at the event. Dinner will be on your own or with others.
UT/NIRSC Hub Address:
Brehm Animal Science Building, 2506 River Dr, Knoxville, TN 37996. Parking will be in the CF-1 Commuter Lot located directly across from the front of this building. Please remember to ask David McIntosh for a parking pass email.
Contacts:
Event Registration:
Tina Bowling, NIRSC Executive Director, 855.339.4267, info@nirsconsortium.com
Hub Event Questions:
David McIntosh, NIRSC Hub Manager at the University of Tennessee, 865.206.1416, dmcintos@utk.edu