The NAW Association Executives Council (AEC) Summer Meeting catalyzes transformation. This July, we’re taking leadership to new heights, bringing together top trade association executives for an immersive experience designed to elevate our impact and innovate for the future.
The Power of AEC: Stronger Together
Our work as association leaders doesn’t just shape our own organizations—it strengthens entire industries. The AEC community has never been stronger, and this summer, we’ll build on that momentum to uncover new opportunities, tackle emerging challenges, and drive the future of distribution forward for the businesses we serve.
An Experience Designed for Growth
Set against the stunning backdrop of Park City, the AEC Summer Meeting isn’t confined to a conference room. Through dynamic discussions, thought-provoking sessions, and unique networking opportunities, we’ll engage in conversations that push boundaries, challenge assumptions, and inspire action.
This is where strategy meets vision. Where collaboration fuels progress. And where association leaders forge the future together.
Why Attend?
- Elevate Your Perspective – Gain fresh insights from experts and fellow leaders, sharing strategies that position your association for long-term success.
- Innovate for Impact – Explore new ideas and approaches that will empower your members and strengthen the industries you represent.
- Connect with Peers – Strengthen relationships with fellow executives who understand the challenges and opportunities unique to our space.
Secure Your Spot
Pricing: $1000 per person
Join us for an unparalleled opportunity to elevate and innovate—for your association, your members, and the future of distribution.
Tuesday, July 15th (Day 1)
6:00 PM Welcome Reception & Dinner – Downtown Park City
Wednesday, July 16th (Day 2)
6:15 AM Optional Sunrise Hike – Start Your Day on the Right Foot!
8:00 AM Breakfast
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Morning Session
The Power of Storytelling: Crafting Authentic Narratives for Strategic Influence
Nancy Bocskor, President, The Nancy Bocskor Company
- Great leaders don’t just inform—they inspire. In this hands-on workshop, leadership coach Nancy Bocskor shows association executives how to craft compelling narratives that connect emotionally, clarify purpose, and drive meaningful action.
Change is Hard: How a Heritage Brand Innovates
Carly Swanberg, Vice President, Head of Global Customer Care, Yahoo
Scott Wagner, Director of Industry Transformation, NAED
- Explore firsthand insights on successfully transforming legacy brands in today’s digital landscape. Discover actionable strategies for managing innovation and embracing change while preserving your organization’s heritage.
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM Networking Lunch
1:30 PM – 3:30 PM Afternoon Session
Insight to Impact: Asking Better Questions of Your Data
- Move beyond dashboards and dive into strategic thinking to help chart your metrics of success and implement actionable solutions. This session provides association executives with an informed strategy to ask sharper questions of their teams and technology.
Concurrent Sessions The Leadership Conversation: What’s Keeping You Up at Night? (Invitation Only)
- This candid, closed-door conversation (open only to the top AEC executives) between peers creates a space to share the real challenges behind the scenes—whether it’s board engagement, staff culture, disruptive technology, or personal burnout. The session encourages honest reflection, peer problem-solving, and connection at the highest level.
The Tactical Conversation: Making It Happen Behind the Scenes
- While CEOs gather to discuss high-level leadership challenges, this candid, closed-door conversation is for the strategists and tacticians who bring vision to life. From managing up and across teams to juggling competing priorities with limited resources, this session invites honest reflection, peer-driven problem-solving, and connection among those who keep their associations running smoothly.
3:30 – 6:00 PM Free Afternoon
6:00 PM – Late Night Group Activity & Dinner – the Stein Eriksen Experience
Thursday, July 17th (Day 3)
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM Breakfast
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM Morning Session
Organizational Entrepreneurship: Innovating from Within
Alison Hawkins, Head of External Affairs, Wells Fargo
- Learn to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset to empower internal change agents. Develop strategies to foster innovation, embrace risk-taking, and drive sustainable growth from within your association.
Advocacy During Uncertain Times
Alex Hendrie, Vice President of Government Relations, NAW
Lauren Williams, Vice President of Government Relations, NAW
- NAW’s GR team will lead a timely discussion on how evolving policies are creating new challenges for the distribution industry. Discover how advocacy efforts are evolving to support members in an increasingly unpredictable regulatory and economic landscape.
10:30 AM Conclusion
