One of the people who took part in a 1996 attempt to climb Mount Everest that went horribly wrong will speak to International Roofing Expo attendees next February.

Dr. Beck Weathers, a survivor of the tragedy chronicled in the book Into Thin Air and the 2015 movie “Everest,” will give the keynote presentation Feb. 17, 2016, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla.

Weathers, a pathologist, will recount what happened when he and 30 other climbers were leaving the mountain’s summit when a severe snowstorm hit. Several climbers died.

“Dr. Beck Weathers’ incredible story of survival has all the elements of a great adventure: heroism, bravery, human struggle against the forces of nature, physical and psychological challenges and a triumph of the human spirit,” said Bill Good, CEO of the National Roofing Contractors Association, the show’s official sponsor. “Attendees and exhibitors will be so inspired by his harrowing tale of survival.”  

Show director Tracy Garcia said she expects attendees will find Weathers’ story incredible.

“Presumed dead and left behind on the mountain by other climbers, Dr. Weathers truly has an inspirational story to tell,” she said. “He is certain to enlighten the audience with the invaluable lessons he learned from facing his own death and living to tell about it.”

The roofing expo takes place Feb. 17-19. Details are at www.TheRoofingExpo.com.