10 – 11:30 a.m.
EMERGING LEADERS DIVISION ADVISORY GROUP MEETING
By invitation only

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
REGISTRATION OPEN

1 – 2:15 p.m.
OPEN NETWORKING
First-time attendees are encouraged to attend.

2:30 – 3:45 p.m.
GENERAL SESSION
Technology & AI Panel Discussion

Explore how AI and emerging technologies are changing the distribution industry. Join industry leaders for a practical conversation on real-world applications, lessons learned and opportunities to help your team work smarter. Bring your questions and leave with fresh ideas for your business.

4 – 5 p.m.
WELCOME RECEPTION

Kick off EMERGE2027 in Nashville! Connect with fellow attendees, enjoy refreshments and light bites, and start building relationships that will carry through the conference and beyond.

6 – 7:30 p.m.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITY
Nashville Pedal Tavern
Pre-registration and additional fees required.

Experience the energy of Music City aboard the Nashville Pedal Tavern! Sip, pedal and connect with fellow attendees while cruising through downtown Nashville, including Broadway’s bustling Honky Tonk Highway. Enjoy iconic sights and curated playlists during a lively ride through the heart of the city. Pickup will be at the Grand Hyatt Nashville, with drop-off on Lower Broadway.

8 – 8:30 a.m.
NETWORKING BREAKFAST

8:30 – 9:45 a.m.
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Team Binding: How Emerging Leaders Build All-In Teams
Speaker: Ryan Jenkins

Join Ryan Jenkins for an engaging keynote introducing Team Binding, a practical approach to building trust, aligning goals and inspiring shared success. Discover how to strengthen relationships across branches, departments, generations and industry partners. Leave ready to build teams that perform as one.

10 – 11:30 a.m.
ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSIONS
Best Practice Roundtables

Connect with fellow attendees to share best practices, fresh ideas and practical solutions. Exchange experiences, learn how others approach common challenges and leave with insights you can apply in your personal and professional life.

11:45 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.
FEATURED CONFERENCE LUNCH

Hear a division update from 2027 Emerging Leaders Advisory Group Chair Matt Guidish of Preferred Sales, followed by an address from 2027 ASA President Chris Reynolds of Plumbers & Factory Supplies. The program will also include updates on Operation Rise & Conquer and ASA’s Master of Distribution Management program.

1:30 – 3 p.m.
ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSIONS
Skill Shops + World Café

Explore leadership and business topics through short Skill Shops led by experienced topic leaders, then exchange ideas with peers in interactive World Café discussions. Gain new perspectives and practical strategies you can put to work right away.

3:15 – 4:15 p.m.
KEYNOTE CONVERSATION
Overcoming Adversity in High-Stakes Environments
Speaker: Matt Cassel

Former NFL Pro Bowl quarterback Matt Cassel turned a seventh-round draft selection by the New England Patriots into a 14-year NFL career spanning seven teams. Join Matt and ASA’s Mike Miazga for a conversation about overcoming adversity, transitioning from college to the NFL, leadership and teamwork. Hear lessons from his career, including his experience working under coaches such as Bill Belichick, and bring your questions for an audience Q&A.

4:30 – 5 p.m.
NETWORKING RECEPTION
Founders Club Reception
By invitation only

Connect with peers who are currently in or preparing to move into ownership and C-suite leadership roles. Share experiences and build relationships with others navigating similar responsibilities and opportunities.

5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
OFF-SITE EXPERIENCE
EMERGE2027 Night Out at Friends in Low Places

Celebrate EMERGE2027 in true Nashville style! Join brothers and No. 1 hit songwriters Matt and Josh Jenkins for an exclusive acoustic songwriter round featuring live music and stories behind hits including “Fancy Like” and “Buy Dirt.” Enjoy an evening of music, dinner, drinks and connections with fellow attendees.

7:30 – 8 a.m.
NETWORKING BREAKFAST

8 – 9:30 a.m.
KEYNOTE CONVERSATION
Always Innovate
Speaker: Elisabeth Hasselbeck

Entrepreneur and television personality Elisabeth Hasselbeck has built a career spanning business ventures and television programs including “Survivor,” “The View” and “Fox & Friends.” Join Elisabeth and ASA’s Mike Miazga for a conversation about innovation, leadership, the entrepreneurial spirit and lessons from her television career. Close out EMERGE2027 with fresh perspectives on embracing new opportunities and moving ideas forward.