Join us for the 2025 AEC Winter Meeting, where the power of collaboration takes center stage. As association leaders, you understand the importance of working together to address the challenges and opportunities facing our industry. This year’s theme, “The Art of Collaboration: Shaping the Future Together,” builds on NAW’s larger marquee event, “Executive Summit 2025: The Art of the Possible,” and focuses on how collaboration can unlock new possibilities for the future.

Designed specifically for senior leaders of industry trade associations and their chosen key staff, this program is a perfect blend of professional development, strategic collaboration, and networking in a relaxed and engaging environment.

What to Expect:

Professional Development Sessions
We are crafting exclusive professional development sessions tailored for trade association leaders. These sessions will offer you the tools, insights, and strategies you need to sharpen your leadership skills and drive your organization’s success. Hear from industry experts and your peers on topics that matter most to your role.

Advocacy & Government Relations Collaboration
In these collaborative sessions, you’ll dive deep into the key advocacy and government relations issues facing the distribution industry. Through coalition-building exercises, strategic discussions, and real-time problem-solving, we’ll work together to tackle legislative and regulatory challenges with a united front.

Networking & Relationship Building
AEC meetings are known for their unmatched networking opportunities, and this year will be no different. From shared meals to relaxed conversations over drinks, you’ll connect with fellow association leaders, forge new relationships, and strengthen existing ones. This is your chance to engage with peers in meaningful ways and exchange best practices.

Fun & Entertainment
While collaboration and learning are at the heart of the event, we’ve made sure to include plenty of time for relaxation and enjoyment. Whether it’s an offsite dinner in a stunning venue or fun group activities, you’ll have ample opportunity to unwind and enjoy yourself while making connections that last.

Why Attend?

• Tailored Leadership Development: Focused on the unique challenges faced by trade association executives, you’ll gain actionable insights you can immediately implement in your organization.
• Drive Advocacy Forward: Collaborate with fellow association leaders to shape advocacy strategies and government relations that will impact the future of the distribution industry.
• Expand Your Network: Strengthen your professional network with peers and industry leaders during dedicated networking and social events.
• Engage in a Collaborative Environment: This is not just another conference; it’s an interactive experience where every attendee plays a part in shaping the conversations and outcomes.

Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in your professional growth, strengthen your advocacy efforts, and build lasting connections with your peers—all while enjoying a memorable experience.

Accommodations and Event location

NAW has reserved a block of rooms at a discounted rate at the Grand Hyatt, Washington on 1000 H Street NW. Use the link below to reserve your room with the NAW group discount code. The hotel will sell out so book early.

Care to bring a spouse? Please email Patti Rausch [email protected] for the special discount rate to add your spouse or significant other to join you at receptions and dinners.

Cancellation Policy

Any cancelation received 120 days prior to the start date of this event will be refunded 100%. Cancellations received between 120 and 30 days before the start date of this event will be held as a credit that your organization can apply to any event registration fee for employees of the same company for 18 months from the cancelation date. Any cancellations closer to an event than 30 days will not be eligible to receive a credit. All cancellations must be sent to [email protected] for processing. Any credits unused after 18 months from the cancelation date will be written off