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2026 Annual Convention & Exhibitor Showcase
AGENDA
Detailed Schedule
Easily navigate the multi-day agenda by using the filters below to explore the specific content or sessions of interest. A downloadable PDF version is also available for your convenience.
Filter the Agenda Sessions by:
Saturday, May 2, 2026
1:00pm - 5:00pm
Registration
MHEDA Registration Desk
Stop by the MHEDA registration desk to pick up your badge and to get additional details on Convention. The registration desk is also a great place to ask questions, get assistance, and learn about last-minute updates or opportunities to enhance your convention experience. The MHEDA team will be there ready to assist you.
Sunday, May 3, 2026
7:00am - 2:00pm
Golf
MHEDA Foundation Scholarship Golf Tournament
Join us for an exciting day on the green at the Annual MHEDA Foundation Scholarship Golf Tournament, where camaraderie meets competition at the beautiful Hermitage Golf Course in Old Hickory, Tennessee. Played on the renowned General’s Retreat, an LPGA Sara Lee Classic host, this scenic championship course offers both challenge and enjoyment, with riverfront views, wildlife sanctuary surroundings, and striking water features. It’s the perfect setting to network, showcase your skills, support a great cause, and create lasting memories. All proceeds benefit the MHEDA Foundation.
9:00am - 11:30am
Bike Tour
Greenway Bike Tour
Kick off your day with a refreshing way to explore Nashville on the Greenway Bike Tour. Starting at the hotel, attendees will be fitted with bikes and gear before heading out for a relaxed ride through downtown to the Pedestrian Bridge for a skyline view. From there, the route continues into Shelby Bottoms Park, where guides will lead you along scenic, shaded pathways and share fun stops and Nashville history along the way.
9:00am - 6:00pm
Registration
MHEDA Registration Desk
Stop by the MHEDA registration desk to pick up your badge and to get additional details on Convention. The registration desk is also a great place to ask questions, get assistance, and learn about last-minute updates or opportunities to enhance your convention experience. The MHEDA team will be there ready to assist you.
9:00am - 6:00pm
Re-Charge
Re-Charge Lounge
Recharge your electronics and yourself throughout convention in our lounge complete with multiple charging stations and comfortable seating.
12:00pm - 4:00pm
Exhibitor Set-Up
Exhibitor Showcase Set-Up
This is the dedicated time to set up your exhibit to create an impactful impression that attracts attendees and sparks meaningful conversations. Need assistance or have questions during set-up? The MHEDA staff will be available to assist you.
2:00pm - 3:00pm
NextGen
NextGen Networking Reception
Join the next generation of material handling professionals at this networking event. This is the perfect chance to connect with like-minded professionals at similar career stages, share insights, and expand your network!
3:30pm - 4:30pm
Women in Industry
Women in Industry Networking Reception
Join industry peers at this networking event for women in the Material Handling Industry, make connections, grow your network and share insights along the way.
5:00pm - 6:00pm
Reception
Newcomer’s Welcome Reception
New members, first time convention attendees are invited to join the MHEDA Board and Manufacturer's Board of Advisors to network while they share insight into what to expect from your first convention. This is a great way to meet new people and learn more about the MHEDA convention experience.
6:30pm - 9:30pm
Opening Party
Honky-Tonk Hangout - Opening Party
Kick off the MHEDA Convention in true Nash-Vegas style at MHEDA’s Opening Party, hosted at Category 10, Luke Combs’ brand-new music venue and bar. Experience the honky-tonk energy and Vegas flair across multiple levels — from the hurricane concert hall and country speakeasy to a rooftop “Eye” with stunning views. Great music, good vibes, and incredible networking await!
Monday, May 4, 2026
7:00am - 5:00pm
Registration
MHEDA Registration Desk
Stop by the MHEDA registration desk to pick up your badge and to get additional details on Convention. The registration desk is also a great place to ask questions, get assistance, and learn about last-minute updates or opportunities to enhance your convention experience. The MHEDA team will be there ready to assist you.
7:00am - 8:00am
Breakfast
Breakfast
Join us for a delicious breakfast buffet, where you can start your day with a variety of hearty and flavorful options. It’s the perfect way to fuel up while enjoying great conversation and company!
7:00am - 5:00pm
Re-Charge
Re-Charge Lounge
Recharge your electronics and yourself throughout convention in our lounge complete with multiple charging stations and comfortable seating.
8:00am - 8:30am
Business Meeting
MHEDA Annual Business Meeting
Join us for the Annual Meeting, where members come together to reflect on the year’s achievements and celebrate our shared successes. It’s a valuable opportunity to connect with peers, gain insights, and contribute to shaping the association’s future.
8:30am - 9:30am
Keynote Presentation
Five Strategies to Songwriting: Building Valuable Relationships, Presented by Jimmy Yeary, Award Winning Songwriter
Through storytelling, humor, and practical insights, Jimmy shows how leading with emotion and authenticity creates instant attraction and lasting impact. Learn to “sell to yourself first,” use shared feelings to build meaningful bridges, and turn your life experiences into deeper connections. Drawing on the emotional power behind songs like “I Drive Your Truck,” Jimmy reveals how the same principles that craft hit music can strengthen teams, boost productivity, and inspire more genuine leadership—because when you’re happy and authentic, everything you touch thrives.
9:30am - 12:30pm
Showcase
Exhibitor Showcase
Explore the products and services at our Showcase, featuring over 90 exhibitors from across the industry. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with leaders in the industry, discover innovative solutions, and build valuable relationships.
10:30am - 12:30pm
Cowboy Hat Bar
Custom Cowboy Hat Bar
Create your own custom Wrangler-style hat with help from a professional designer in this interactive pop-up experience! Choose your favorite style and color then personalize it with charms, fabric wraps, stitching, or fire-burnt accents for a truly one-of-a-kind look.
12:30pm - 1:30pm
Lunch
Lunch
Join us for a delicious lunch buffet, offering a variety of flavorful dishes to satisfy your appetite. It’s the perfect opportunity to recharge and connect with others in a relaxed setting!
1:30pm - 2:00pm
Break
After-Lunch Break
Take a moment to relax and recharge after lunch. Network with fellow attendees and prepare for the exciting events ahead.
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Roundtable
Material Handling Business Trends - Roundtable Discussions
Discuss the 2026 Trends with fellow attendees during the Roundtable Discussions. Share best practices, gain insight from other industry leaders and build your network along the way.
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Workshop
Go From A to THE®: Leading and Motivating in Our Shifting Market Presented by Ryan Avery, Organizational Psychologist
Join world record–holding keynote speaker and organizational psychologist Ryan Avery for a high-impact session designed for MHEDA leaders who want to stand out, stay motivated, and strengthen communication. Through stories, science, and actionable strategies, Ryan will show you how to lead with clarity, communicate with influence, and motivate your teams even when the market slows.
3:00pm - 3:15pm
Break
Afternoon Break
Take a moment to relax and recharge during the afternoon break. Network with fellow attendees and prepare for the exciting events ahead.
3:15pm - 4:15pm
Workshop
Navigating the Geopolitics and Economics of Cold War Two, Presented by Jason Schenker, President of Prestige Economics
Economist and Futurist Jason Schenker breaks down how Cold War Two has shifted over the past year and what rising U.S. trade policies, export controls, and security-driven industrial strategies mean for the economy. He'll explore actionable insights to help material handling and logistics professionals navigate risks, seize opportunities, and position their organizations for long-term resilience and growth.
3:15pm - 4:15pm
Workshop
The Competitive Edge: Spot Trends and Thrive in the Future of Work, Presented by Crystal Washington, Futurist, Author and Hall of Fame Speaker
In a world where change moves faster than ever, successful organizations don’t just react, they anticipate what’s next. As technology and workplace norms rapidly evolve, the future of work is already unfolding. Crystal will show you how to separate trends from fads, identify the biggest shifts shaping work and leadership, and use simple tools to track what’s coming.
4:15pm - 5:15pm
Happy Hour
Exhibitor Showcase Happy Hour
Join us for the Exhibitor Happy Hour, a perfect opportunity to relax, network, and connect with industry peers in a lively and informal setting.
5:15pm - 6:15pm
Reception
Sponsored Receptions
Join us for a special event where you’ll enjoy great food, drinks, and networking in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Don’t miss this chance to relax and engage with industry peers while showing appreciation for our valued sponsor!
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
7:00am - 5:00pm
Registration
MHEDA Registration Desk
Stop by the MHEDA registration desk to pick up your badge and to get additional details on Convention. The registration desk is also a great place to ask questions, get assistance, and learn about last-minute updates or opportunities to enhance your convention experience. The MHEDA team will be there ready to assist you.
7:00am - 5:00pm
Re-Charge
Re-Charge Lounge
Recharge your electronics and yourself throughout convention in our lounge complete with multiple charging stations and comfortable seating.
7:30am - 8:30am
Breakfast
Breakfast
Join us for a delicious breakfast buffet, where you can start your day with a variety of hearty and flavorful options. It’s the perfect way to fuel up while enjoying great conversation and company before heading home.
8:30am - 9:30am
General Session
Employalty: How to Ignite Commitment and Keep Top Talent in the New Age of Work, Presented by Joe Mull, CSP, CPAE and Hall of Fame Speaker
The employee revolution is here, and understanding what truly motivates workers is more important than ever. In this compelling session, Joe debunks common myths like money being the main driver or that “no one wants to work” and reveals the three key factors that determine whether employees join, stay, and excel.
9:30am - 9:45am
Break
Morning Break
Take a refreshing pause during the morning break at the convention! Enjoy light snacks, coffee, and beverages while recharging for the sessions ahead.
9:45am - 11:00am
Workshop
AI & the Future of Everything, Presented by Dan Chuparkoff, AI & Innovation Expert
Adapting to an AI-powered future is one of today’s biggest challenges, and teams are divided—some are eager but overlooking pitfalls, while others are unsure where to start. Dan explains what AI can—and can’t—do, how it’s evolving, and how to combine it with human expertise. Attendees leave with practical strategies to harness AI and emerging technologies, boosting performance, creativity, and competitive advantage.
9:45am - 11:00am
Workshop
The Language of Leadership: How Words Shape Performance, Presented by Ryan Avery, Organizational Psychologist
What if the biggest barrier to your team’s performance isn’t resources, but the words you use every day? In this high-energy session, Ryan shows how language can build trust and motivation—or create confusion and disengagement. Through real-world examples and research on psycholinguistics, you’ll learn to communicate in ways that drive alignment, accountability, and action, leaving your team inspired, valued, and performing at their best. When leaders master their language, they master their culture.
9:45am - 11:00am
Workshop
From Commodity to Category of One: How to Immediately Boost Your Reputation, Referrals, and Revenue, Presented by Brittany Hodak, Customer Experience Expert
Brittany challenges sales professionals to answer the defining question of every deal: Why should prospects choose you? Drawing on her experience with Walmart, Disney, Dolly Parton, and more, she shows how to communicate unique value, turn customers into loyal superfans, and make price and timing less important. Attendees leave with actionable insights to elevate their sales and earn not just clients—but superfans.
10:00am - 2:30pm
Tour
Grand Ole Opry Tour + Lunch at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen
Experience the heart of Music City at the iconic Opry, home of “the show that made country music famous.” Guests enjoy a VIP backstage tour, glimpse the green rooms, and step onto the legendary stage walked by Dolly Parton, Carrie Underwood, and more. Afterward, savor a fun and delicious lunch at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen.
11:00am - 11:15am
Break
Morning Break
Take a refreshing pause during the morning break at the convention! Enjoy light snacks, coffee, and beverages while recharging for the sessions ahead.
11:15am - 12:15pm
General Session
Thriving in a Changing Economy, Presented by Connor Lokar, Senior Forecaster at ITR Economics
Known for his energetic style and ability to simplify complex data, Connor will cover the latest U.S. and global forecasts, explain where you are in the business cycle, and highlight key indicators to watch. He’ll also address inflation, interest rates, taxes, and other factors shaping today’s economy, providing practical insights to help you make smarter strategic decisions.
12:15pm - 1:15pm
Lunch
Lunch
Join us for a delicious lunch buffet, offering a variety of flavorful dishes to satisfy your appetite. It’s the perfect opportunity to recharge and connect with others in a relaxed setting!
1:15pm - 1:30pm
Break
After-lunch Break
Take a moment to relax and recharge after lunch. Network with fellow attendees and prepare for the exciting sessions ahead.
1:30pm - 2:45pm
Community Conversations
Industrial Truck Community Conversation - From Silos to Collaboration: Driving Dealership Success, Presented by Steve McClatchy, Award Winning Author + Member Panel
As dealership teams become more dispersed, collaboration and culture can suffer. From Silos to Collaboration gives leaders practical strategies to break down barriers, reduce isolation, and align teams around shared goals and customer experience. Learn what highly functional dealership teams need and gain actionable steps to build a more connected, high-performing organization.
Member Panel Members: Brian Harris from Papé, Dan Niewoehner from Lift Power, Josh Smith from Toyota Forklifts of Atlanta/TMHS and Zack Morrison from Morrison Industrial
1:30pm - 2:45pm
Community Conversations
Storage & Handling Community Conversation - The Business of Permits: A Customer Centric Approach, Presented by Rebecca Butao, Founder of About the Rack
Permits protect your project, your customer, and their investment, ensuring code compliance, safety, and reduced liability. With many cities now requiring building, fire, and high-pile permits before construction begins, early planning is key. A Permit First approach helps uncover potential delays, while guidance on required permits and necessary details. You’ll leave with practical tools to stay confident, compliant, and inspection-ready.
1:30pm - 2:45pm
Community Conversations
Systems Integrators Community Conversation - Topic Details Coming Soon!
Join fellow integrators to share insights, address common challenges, and explore emerging trends. Guided by industry leaders and speakers, this session fosters open dialogue, practical learning, and peer-to-peer collaboration, helping you stay informed and build critical connections.
1:30pm - 2:45pm
Workshop
AI & the Future of Everything, Presented by Dan Chuparkoff, AI & Innovation Expert
Adapting to an AI-powered future is one of today’s biggest challenges, and teams are divided—some are eager but overlooking pitfalls, while others are unsure where to start. Dan explains what AI can—and can’t—do, how it’s evolving, and how to combine it with human expertise. Attendees leave with practical strategies to harness AI and emerging technologies, boosting performance, creativity, and competitive advantage.
2:45pm - 3:00pm
Break
Afternoon Break
Take a moment to relax and recharge during the afternoon break. Enjoy light refreshments, network with fellow attendees, and prepare for the exciting session ahead.
3:00pm - 4:00pm
General Session
The Power of One, Presented by John O’Leary, Accomplished Speaker, Author and Podcaster
Journey with John O’Leary as he powerfully celebrates the possibility of how you can serve, love and impact more profoundly in your own life. Personal accountability involves every aspect of our lives – our thoughts, actions, behaviors, and values. John reveals how pride in one’s own life wildly impacts others personally and professionally. Of critical importance here is discovering that personal accountability and significant results in life don’t come from a better spouse, different job, or new manager – they are only realized from within.
4:00pm - 5:00pm
Give Back
MHEDA Gives Back
MHEDA's Give Back event exemplifies our commitment to community engagement and social responsibility. These initiatives unite members to support local causes. By participating, members not only strengthen their networks but also make a meaningful impact on the communities we serve.
7:00pm - 10:00pm
Closing Party
Nashville Nights Finale - Closing Party
Close out the convention in true country style at our Nashville Nights Finale! Enjoy live music from The Mantz Brothers, great food, and drinks as we celebrate an unforgettable week together. Kick back, hit the dance floor, and toast to good times and great company, it’s the perfect ending to an amazing event!
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
8:00am - 9:00am
Breakfast
Farewell Breakfast
Join us for a delicious breakfast buffet, where you can start your day with a variety of hearty and flavorful options. It’s the perfect way to fuel up while enjoying great conversation and company before heading home.
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