NETWORK2026

Schedule (Click on each day to see schedule)

MONDAY & TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 9-10 (INNOVATION SUMMIT)

*Optional add-on event; additional registration fee required.

DAY 1: MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9

12 p.m.
REGISTRATION OPEN

1:30 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.
WELCOME & OPEN REMARKS

1:45 p.m. – 2 p.m.
BREAK

1:45 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.
GENERAL SESSION 1
Opening Keynote
Speaker: Chad Foster

Distribution is entering a defining modernization cycle. Technology decisions made over the next several years will shape competitiveness, workforce stability, and long-term margin resilience.

This keynote frames the broader landscape facing PHCP and PVF leaders — separating signal from noise and translating innovation into leadership-level clarity. The focus is not futurism, but direction: what matters now, what can wait, and how to think about modernization without destabilizing operations.

What You Will Gain:

Perspective on the forces reshaping distribution
Clarity on strategic modernization priorities
A leadership lens for sequencing investment
Direction for informed 2026 planning decisions

2:45 p.m. – 3 p.m.
BREAK

2:45 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.
GENERAL SESSION 2
Digitization & Customer Intelligence
Speaker: Spencer Smith

Customer intelligence is not a software feature — it is an organizational capability. This session explores how distributors build disciplined data environments that translate into commercial advantage, sales effectiveness, and margin visibility.

Rather than focusing on tools alone, the discussion addresses integration realities, adoption barriers, and how CRM, ERP, and structured data practices combine to create operational clarity.

What You Will Gain:

A practical view of customer intelligence in distribution
Insight into CRM and ERP integration realities
Awareness of cultural and operational adoption barriers
Clear next steps for strengthening data-driven execution

3:45 p.m. – 4 p.m.
BREAK

4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
GENERAL SESSION 3
Applied AI for Distributors: From Experimentation to Execution
Speaker: Steve Lerch

Artificial intelligence is rapidly moving from curiosity to operational tool. Yet real value depends on disciplined implementation and strong data foundations.

This session examines where AI is meaningfully improving productivity, forecasting, and decision support — and where experimentation lacks operational grounding. The emphasis is on practical application within mid-market distribution environments.

What You Will Gain:

Clarity on realistic AI use cases
Understanding of prerequisites for successful deployment
Awareness of overreach and hype risks
A framework for disciplined pilot evaluation

5:15 p.m. - 6:15 p.m.
RECEPTION

DAY 2: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10

7 a.m. - 7:30 a.m.
NETWORKING BREAKFAST

7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.
GENERAL SESSION 4
Robotics and Automation in Distribution: Real Use Cases and Lessons Learned
Panel Discussion

This moderated panel brings together operators who have implemented robotics and automation in live distribution environments. The conversation focuses on what triggered adoption, what broke during deployment, and what leaders underestimated.

This is not a showcase. It is a candid discussion about capital discipline, integration friction, organizational readiness, and when automation does not make sense.

What You Will Gain:

Real-world deployment insight
Clarity on readiness signals in your organization
Understanding of ROI and integration tradeoffs
A disciplined path for evaluating automation opportunities

8:30 a.m. - 8:45 a.m.
BREAK

8:45 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.
ROUNDTABLE SESSIONS
Innovation in Practice: Best Practices and Shared Challenges
Facilitated, Peer-driven Discussions by Topic

The Summit concludes with facilitated, peer-driven discussions focused on translating insight into action. Participants engage directly with fellow leaders around technology sequencing, AI readiness, workforce impact, operational innovation, and customer experience.

These sessions are structured to move from reflection to practical next steps within the constraints of real distribution environments.

What You Will Gain:

Peer perspective grounded in similar operating realities
Clearer next-step thinking
Insight into industry adoption pacing
Practical modernization considerations for 2026

9:45 a.m. - 10 a.m.
CLOSING REMARKS
Key Takeaways, Next Steps, Adjournment

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10

9 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
NETWORK2026 REGISTRATION OPEN

10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
ADVISORY GROUP MEETINGS
By invitation only

11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
STRATEGIC COUNCIL MEETINGS
By invitation only

12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
ASA BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING & LUNCHEON
ASA Board Members & Invited Guests

2 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
CONFERENCE KICK-OFF / GENERAL SESSION

The Hero Effect® for Leaders - Creating a Culture of Heros at Every Level
Speaker: Kevin Brown

Kevin Brown is a dynamic keynote speaker with more than 30 years of business experience helping organizations build stronger cultures, deliver exceptional customer experiences, and unlock higher levels of performance. Before becoming a full-time speaker, he spent two decades helping transform SERVPRO® from a small family business into the #1 franchise in its industry, generating more than $2 billion in annual revenue.

He will share the message behind The HERO Effect®, showing how individuals and teams can raise their standards, take greater ownership of their roles, and create extraordinary results for their customers and organizations. His engaging presentations challenge audiences to show up every day ready to make a meaningful difference.

3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
CONCURRENT EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS

Voice of the Customer Panel Discussion: Farmington Consulting Group
Speaker: TJ O'Connor

TJ O’Connor will share key findings from the 2026 ASA Voice of the Customer survey, including comparisons to the original 2023 results and a look at emerging industry trends. He will also facilitate a panel discussion with leading contractors, offering real-world perspectives and insights from across the industry.

TJ has been with Farmington Consulting Group since 2008 and has served as President since 2018. The firm is a leading market research and growth strategy consultancy serving the plumbing, HVAC, and electrical distribution industries. TJ is nationally recognized as a growth strategist in the distribution channel, with deep experience conducting industry surveys, leading advisory councils, facilitating strategic planning sessions, and driving cross-functional process improvement initiatives.

The Future of Work: Strategies to Connect, Work, and Lead Effectively Across Remote (and Hybrid) Teams
Speaker: Ryan Jenkins

The future of work is being reshaped by remote environments, rapid technology, and an always-on culture that is weakening human connection. As new generations enter the workforce, especially Gen Z, traditional ways of working and leading are becoming less effective and even counterproductive. Today’s workplace demands a new approach that prioritizes meaningful connection to drive engagement and performance.

Drawing on years of leadership consulting and research, Ryan Jenkins explores the root causes of workplace disconnection and offers practical strategies to build stronger relationships across remote and hybrid teams. Attendees will gain insights into emerging workplace trends, learn how to stay relevant as leaders, and discover real-world examples of organizations adapting successfully. The session also equips participants with tools and confidence to foster connection and lead effectively in the evolving world of work.

5 p.m. – 6 p.m.
RECEPTIONS
By invitation only
Emerging Leaders, Women in Industry, AIM/R, PAC Reception

6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
NETWORK2026 OPENING RECEPTION
Sponsored by Platinum Supplier Partners

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11

7 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.
ALL INDUSTRY BREAKFAST
Sponsored by Platinum Supplier Partners

From Sidelines to Spotlight: A Candid Q&A with Erin Andrews
Speaker: Erin Andrews, Member of the NFL on FOX A-Team, founder of WEAR by Erin Andrews, and co-host of iHeart’s Calm Down podcast and Fox’s 99 to Beat

Join us for an engaging moderated Q&A with Erin Andrews—one of the most recognizable voices in sports media. In this candid conversation, Erin will reflect on her journey from sideline reporter to industry leader, sharing insights on breaking into competitive fields, navigating high-pressure moments, and building resilience in the public eye.

Attendees will also hear behind-the-scenes stories from some of the biggest moments in sports, along with Erin’s perspective on balancing career ambition with personal growth.

Erin Andrews is a legendary sports broadcaster as part of FOX Sports’ A Team. Andrews can be seen weekly on FOX NFL Sunday, a show that records a staggering 56.4 million unique viewers, doing sideline coverage and features.

9 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.
GENERAL SESSION

Exponential Commitment: Build Breakthrough Momentum in the Storm of Chaos
Speaker: Manley Feinberg

Manley Feinberg's dynamic keynote inspires participants to step up in a new way to overcome resistance and reach higher than ever by cultivating Exponential Commitment in themselves and those around them. Participants will learn essential Vertical Lessons for deepening their commitment, building momentum, and achieving breakthroughs in even the most challenging circumstances.

10:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
2027 INDUSTRY ECONOMIC FORECAST
Dr. Chris Kuehl, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Armada

12 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
ASA ANNUAL MEETING & MEMBER LUNCHEON
Sponsored by Platinum Supplier Partners

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
AIM/R EDUCATIONAL FORUM FOR MANUFACTURERS’ REPRESENTATIVES

3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
WHOLESALER-DISTRIBUTOR & VENDOR CONFERENCE APPOINTMENTS
The Wholesaler-Distributor and Vendor Conference Appointments is a key event at NETWORK designed to enhance your opportunities for building strong partnerships and boosting your bottom line, extending beyond the scope of traditional buying group meetings. Vendors and wholesaler-distributors engage in face-to-face meetings through pre-scheduled appointments. Over the course of two hours, you'll have the chance to participate in ten 12-minute sessions, maximizing your time and business connections. The conference appointments are open to all registered wholesaler-distributors and participating vendors. Information on appointment scheduling will be sent in October.

5 p.m. – 6 p.m.
NETWORKING RECEPTION
Sponsored by Platinum Supplier Partners

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12

7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
NETWORK CLOSING BREAKFAST
Sponsored by Platinum Supplier Partners

LESSONS FROM A SHARK
Speaker: Kevin O'Leary

Kevin O’Leary will take you on a behind-the-scenes look at his hit show Shark Tank. He’ll share entertaining and insightful outtakes from his TV shows – videos you can’t see anywhere else, along with a current economic overview and how it relates to your industry, and finally, he’ll be a ‘secret agent’ for your industry with insights into how your industry is performing, where the innovation is coming from and more.

9:30 a.m.
CONFERENCE CLOSE