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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.
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Saturday, May 2, 2026
12:00pm - 4:00pm
Registration
MHEDA Registration Desk
Stop by the MHEDA registration desk to pick up your badge and get key convention details. The MHEDA team is ready to help you make the most of your experience.
Sunday, May 3, 2026
7:00am - 2:00pm
Golf (Optional)
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, this scenic championship course offers riverfront views, wildlife sanctuary surroundings, and striking water features. It’s the perfect setting to network, showcase your skills, and support a great cause. Proceeds benefit the scholarships provided by the MHEDA Foundation.
9:00am - 11:30am
Bike Tour (Optional)
Greenway Bike Tour
Kick off your day with a refreshing way to explore Nashville. 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 and into Shelby Bottoms Park. Guides will lead you along scenic, shaded pathways and share fun stops and history along the way.
9:00am - 5:00pm
Registration
MHEDA Registration Desk
Stop by the MHEDA registration desk to pick up your badge and get key convention details. The MHEDA team is ready to help you make the most of your experience.
9:00am - 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.
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.
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 to network while they share insight into what to expect from your first convention.
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 get key convention details. The MHEDA team is ready to help you make the most of your experience.
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 Business Meeting, where members come together to reflect on the year’s achievements and celebrate our shared successes.
8:30am - 9:30am
Keynote Presentation
5 Strategies to Songwriting: Building Valuable Relationships
Presented by Jimmy Yeary, Award-winning Songwriter & Speaker
This transformative session blends music, storytelling, and practical insights to show how authenticity creates lasting impact. Learn to “sell to yourself first,” connect through shared experiences, and use emotion to build stronger teams and deeper relationships. Drawing on the power behind hits like “I Drive Your Truck,” Jimmy reveals how the principles of great songwriting can boost productivity, inspire joy, and help you lead and communicate more authentically.
9:30am - 12:30pm
Showcase
Exhibitor Showcase
Explore the products and services at the Exhibitor 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
Spouse/Guest Activity
Custom Cowboy Hat Bar
Create your own custom Wrangler-style hat with help from a professional designer in this interactive pop-up experience that's located at the Convention hotel! 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
Power Break
Take a moment to relax and recharge after lunch.
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, Accomplished Speaker & Organizational Psychologist
In today’s soft market—where expectations are rising and teams are being asked to do more with less—the difference between being a leader and the leader has never mattered more. In this engaging, tactical session, Ryan will show leaders how to stand out, stay motivated, and strengthen communication at every level. Through stories, science, and actionable strategies, you'll learn to lead with clarity and connection, communicate with influence, and create motivation that lasts—even when the market slows. Discover how to shift your mindset, language, and leadership style to not only meet but exceed today’s growing demands from customers and teams alike.
3:00pm - 3:15pm
Break
Afternoon Break
Take a moment to relax and recharge with light refreshments during the afternoon break.
3:15pm - 4:15pm
Workshop
Navigating the Geopolitics and Economics of Cold War Two
Presented by Jason Schenker, Futurist, Economist & Bestselling Author
This timely session presents an in-depth look at how Cold War Two has evolved over the past year and where it’s headed next. Jason will examine how accelerating U.S. trade policies, export controls, and industrial strategies are linking national security with economic policy, reshaping key sectors like energy, defense, logistics, and manufacturing. Break down major trade shifts, emerging global conflict risks, and the economic impacts on inflation, interest rates, and supply chains—offering clear insight into the risks and opportunities that will shape resilience and long-term growth.
3:15pm - 4:15pm
Workshop
The Competitive Edge: Spot Trends and Thrive in the Future of Work
Presented by Crystal Washington, Futurist, Author & Hall of Fame Speaker
In a world where change moves faster than ever, successful organizations don’t just react—they anticipate what’s coming and act with confidence. From emerging technologies to evolving workplace expectations, the future of work is unfolding right now. In this fast-paced session, Crystal demonstrates how to separate passing fads from game-changing trends, identify the shifts reshaping work and leadership, and use simple methods for tracking what truly matters. Discover how to translate trend insights into action, helping your team stay sharp, adaptive, and future-ready.
4:15pm - 5:15pm
Happy Hour
Exhibitor Showcase Happy Hour
Join us for the Exhibitor showcase 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 drinks and networking in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
7:00am - 5:00pm
Registration
MHEDA Registration Desk
Stop by the MHEDA registration desk to pick up your badge and get key convention details. The MHEDA team is ready to help you make the most of your experience.
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.
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 & Hall of Fame Speaker
Across Material Handling, leaders are facing rising turnover, shifting expectations, and dwindling engagement—but do we truly understand what drives people to choose, stay, and perform at work? In this session, Joe challenges common myths, reveals the three experiences that most influence long-term commitment, and explains what’s really behind today’s retention issues. Attendees will gain a clear framework and practical language to strengthen workforce engagement and improve retention at both the individual and organizational level.
9:30am - 9:45am
Break
Morning Break
Take a moment to relax and recharge with light refreshments during the morning break.
9:45am - 11:00am
Workshop
AI & the Future of Everything
Presented by Dan Chuparkoff, AI & Innovation Expert
Adapting to an AI-powered future may be today’s most urgent challenge. But teams are divided. Some are excited about "AI-powered everything" and overlook the pitfalls. Others are unsure or anxious about the disruption AI could bring—and don’t know where to begin. In this session, Dan breaks down what AI is good at, and what it’s not - how AI is evolving and how to pair its capabilities with the power of human expertise. You’ll leave this session with practical strategies to leverage AI and other emerging technologies—unlocking new levels of performance, creativity, and a competitive edge.
*Session will be repeated during 1:30pm - 2:45pm workshop
9:45am - 11:00am
Workshop
The Language of Leadership: How Words Shape Performance
Presented by Ryan Avery, Accomplished Speaker & Organizational Psychologist
What if the biggest barrier to your team’s performance isn’t resources—but the words you use every day? In this eye-opening session, Ryan shows how a leader’s language can build trust and motivation or unintentionally create confusion and disengagement. Through interactive examples and real-world research, you’ll learn practical ways to communicate with clarity, drive alignment, and inspire stronger performance. You’ll leave with simple, powerful methods to help your team feel seen, valued, and motivated—because 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, Author, Speaker and Customer Experience Expert
Why should your prospects choose you? If you can’t answer it clearly, neither can your team—or your customers. Drawing on her experience working with brands like Walmart, Disney, and Dolly Parton, Brittany shows how to uncover and communicate the unique value that turns everyday buyers into loyal superfans. She explains why the most powerful sales tool in history still works, how to make price and timing matter less, and what you can change today to elevate performance. Attendees will leave with a sharper understanding of the value they deliver and what it takes to convert clients into superfans.
10:00am - 2:30pm
Spouse/Guest Activity
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 moment to relax and recharge with light refreshments during the morning break.
11:15am - 12:15pm
General Session
Thriving in a Changing Economy
Presented by Connor Lokar, Senior Forecaster at ITR Economics
This engaging and insightful economic presentation is designed specifically for MHEDA Members. Known for his energetic style and ability to make complex data actionable, Connor will guide you through the latest U.S. and global economic forecasts, explain what the trends mean for your business, and show how to turn them into opportunities. You’ll explore ITR Economics’ Management Objectives, the Business Cycle, and key leading indicators, while also examining inflation, interest rates, taxes, and other forces shaping performance. This session provides the insights and clarity needed to navigate today’s economic landscape with confidence.
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
Power Break
Take a moment to relax and recharge after lunch.
1:30pm - 2:45pm
Community Conversations
Industrial Truck Community - Silos to Alignment: Strengthening Cross-Department Performance in the Dealership
Presented by Steve McClatchy, Award-winning Author & Speaker + Member Panel featuring dealers like Toyota Forklifts of Atlanta, Lift Power, Morrison Industrial and More!
As dealership teams become more distributed across field operations, regional branches, and expanding divisions, misalignment can slow execution, create inconsistent customer experiences, and lead to preventable revenue loss. This session equips leaders with practical strategies to improve coordination between sales, service/parts, rental, and support teams, regardless of location or organizational structure. Learn how high-performing teams reduce inefficiencies, strengthen handoffs, and improve cross-department accountability. You’ll walk away with practical methods to tighten coordination, improve execution, and drive stronger performance across the dealership
1:30pm - 2:45pm
Community Conversations
Storage & Handling Community - The Business of Permits: Protecting Profitability & Project Success
Presented by Rebecca Butao, Founder of About the Rack
Permitting has become a defining factor in customer satisfaction, on-time execution, and project profitability. With more cities requiring building, fire, and high-pile permits earlier in the process, permit planning is now a core project risk that directly affects schedule, cost, and customer trust. This session outlines a Permit First Approach and shows why permit conversations must begin during design. You’ll learn how early evaluation helps prevent costly redesigns, reduce delays, and strengthen your credibility with customers. You’ll leave with clear strategies to navigate permitting requirements, minimize delays, and keep projects moving on schedule. With tools like the Customer Permit Checklist and the Site Survey Cheat Sheet, your team will be equipped to stay compliant and guide customers with confidence.
1:30pm - 2:45pm
Community Conversations
Systems Integrator Community - Outside-In Insights: Market Signals, Emerging Risks & the Future of Integration
Presented by Wanda Johnson, Supply Chain Technology Fellow & Tom Andersson, Founder and Principal Analyst at STIQ Ltd
Systems integrators work closest to customer operations, but many of the trends shaping the future of automation are first identified by consultants advising executive teams and market researchers tracking adoption patterns across industries. This session brings those outside perspectives together to provide a data-backed view of where integration is heading. Learn from professionals who advise Fortune 1000 clients, analyze automation adoption at scale, and track the market forces shaping demand. They’ll share insights and overlooked opportunities that shape customer expectations and solution design, including which technologies—such as AMRs and goods-to-person systems—are gaining traction or failing to scale. You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of the market signals that matter and what capabilities will be essential for integrators to stay competitive.
1:30pm - 2:45pm
Workshop
AI & the Future of Everything
Presented by Dan Chuparkoff, AI & Innovation Expert
Adapting to an AI-powered future may be today’s most urgent challenge. But teams are divided. Some are excited about "AI-powered everything" and overlook the pitfalls. Others are unsure or anxious about the disruption AI could bring—and don’t know where to begin. In this session, Dan breaks down what AI is good at, and what it’s not - how AI is evolving and how to pair its capabilities with the power of human expertise. You’ll leave this session with practical strategies to leverage AI and other emerging technologies—unlocking new levels of performance, creativity, and a competitive edge.
*Repeat session of 9:45am - 11am workshop
2:45pm - 3:00pm
Break
Afternoon Break
Take a moment to relax and recharge with light refreshments during the afternoon break.
3:00pm - 4:00pm
General Session
The Power of One
Presented by John O’Leary, Accomplished Speaker, Author & Podcaster
Journey with John 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 both 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. 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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