As we return home from the AME Milwaukee 2026 International Conference, I am grateful, inspired and reminded once again why this community means so much to me. Our theme, “People First, Progress Together,” came to life through the learning, generosity, laughter and connections we shared throughout the week.
Our speakers gave us plenty to think about and bring back to our organizations. Colonel Arthur Athens reminded us that humility and kindness are essential leadership qualities. Steve Spear, Karen Martin and Heléne Smuts challenged us to examine how our systems and leadership practices help people succeed. Dr. Latitia McCane encouraged us to think differently about workforce development and how early we begin nurturing future talent. Audrey McGuckin explored how we can embrace AI and innovation while keeping people at the center, and Glenn Bostock reinforced the powerful connection between caring for people and achieving excellence.
And, of course, Jon Colby brought the energy, humor and connection we have come to love. His lessons in listening, being present and saying “yes, and” reminded us that how we communicate can open the door to better teamwork and new possibilities.
The learning extended well beyond the main stage. Our best-practice tours took participants inside organizations including GE HealthCare, Molson Coors, Johnsonville, Charter Steel, Amerequip, Leonardo DRS, Kerry and Rockwell Automation. Seeing daily management, employee engagement, problem-solving and technology in action helped connect ideas with practical applications. To every tour host, we thank you for welcoming us, answering our questions and sharing both your progress and the lessons learned along the way.
One of my proudest moments was celebrating our AME Emerging Leaders graduates and their AME volunteer leader, Becca Jenkins.
Congratulations to each of you! Your graduation represents a year of learning, commitment, collaboration and hard work. Through your capstone projects, you brought fresh perspectives and demonstrated what happens when talented people have the opportunity to take ownership and lead.
You are already shaping AME and the organizations you serve. Your voices matter, your ideas matter, and we need your leadership. To the mentors, program leaders and employers who supported this cohort, thank you for investing in these remarkable individuals and for giving them room to lead.
Milwaukee also gave us plenty of reasons to smile! Between celebrating the Brewers winning, welcoming the mayor as he greeted our AME community, and cheering on our karaoke performers, there was no shortage of hometown spirit or entertainment. Karaoke night revealed talents that may never appear on a résumé and reminded us that this group knows how to have fun together! And karaoke is definitely on the agenda for Charlotte 2027. You all owe me for not including those photos in this newsletter.
Those moments matter. Sharing a laugh, singing a song or meeting someone new helps build the trust and friendships that keep this community connected long after the conference ends.
Thank you to our speakers, tour hosts, sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers, conference leadership team and AME Home Team. And to every participant who shared an experience, asked a thoughtful question or made someone feel welcome, you helped make Milwaukee special.
And a special thanks to William Harvey and his entire conference team. You all set the bar for 2027! I am so grateful!
Now, let’s carry that momentum home. Share what you learned. Invite your team into the conversation. Try an improvement, reflect on the results and keep learning together.
Thank you for being part of our AME family. I am already looking forward to seeing you in Charlotte in 2027!
As always, please stay safe and keep looking out for one another.
