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2026 Air Carriers Purchasing Conference

Browse our 2026 conference agenda below. Agenda is subject to change.

All Days
Saturday, August 29
Sunday, August 30
Monday, August 31
Tuesday, September 1

Saturday, August 29, 2026

Badge Pickup

Del Lago Foyer - Lower Level JW Marriott
Bring a photo ID and your registration QR code (printed or on your smart phone) to pick up your 2026 ACPC badge and wristband. Both badge and wristband are required for entry to ALL ACPC events. Lost badges and/or wristbands will NOT be replaced.
8:00 am
12:00 pm

ACPC Mobile App Help Desk

Del Lago Foyer - Lower Level JW Marriott
Hosted by Cvent
Saturday and Sunday ONLY! Stop by the Mobile App Help Desk to learn how to fully utilize the 2026 ACPC mobile app and get the most out of your time during the conference! Get tips on how to take advantage of networking opportunities, keep track of exhibitor and attendee information, contribute photos and comments to the social activity feed and more.
8:00 am
12:00 pm

Connection Tracker Tool Assistance

Del Lago Foyer - Lower Level JW Marriott (Registration Customer Service Desk)
Have questions on ACPC's newest networking tool? Stop by the Registration Help Desk to discover how the Connection Tracker app makes it fast and easy to capture contact info and follow up with your new connections.
8:00 am
12:00 pm

Airline Roundtable Appointment Selection

Del Lago - Lower Level JW Marriott
Airline Roundtable Selection appointments are by Priority Grouping only.
8:15 am
12:00 pm

Meet & Greet Sessions

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
Open to Suppliers and Airlines - A 30-minute time slot for you to talk business in a casual and relaxed environment! Just show up, take a seat, and let the business come to you! Be sure to check out the Diversity Corner: A valuable opportunity for Airline and Supplier Companies to proactively seek strategic partnerships with diverse companies and for diverse companies to learn how they can help Airline and Supplier Companies achieve their diversity goals and how to enroll in their certified diversity programs, if applicable. Your company can take part in these mutually beneficial networking sessions throughout the conference. Just ask to host a table in the Diversity Corner and have Diversity Corner added to your table display. Learn more >
9:00 am
4:30 pm

Hospitality Suite

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
Grab a drink or refreshment of your choice, sit down, catch up on work, relax, or network and talk some business in our Hospitality Suite. Learn more >
9:00 am
5:00 pm

ACPC Business Development Power Hub

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
hosted by Interactive Training Solutions & David Goad Speaks
Take advantage of FREE coaching in key areas that are critical for creating, developing and maintaining a strong business network! Learn more >
9:00 am
5:00 pm

Airline New Attendee Orientation

Amarante 2-3 - Lower Level JW Marriott
facilitated by Rachel Niederer, A'Lasia Davis Binkley, Pamela Holiday and Chip Wasinsky
New to the ACPC? This session is specifically designed for Airline attendees. Join 2026 ACPC Board members to learn more about the conference and how to take advantage of all of the networking and learning opportunities available with your Airline Registration.
10:00 am
10:45 am

Supplier New Attendee Orientation

Segura 1-4 - Lower Level JW Marriott
facilitated by Mike Ballou and Amanda Hartwig
New to the ACPC? This session is specifically designed for Supplier attendees. In this session, 2026 ACPC Board members will share more about the conference and how to take advantage of all of the networking and learning opportunities available with your Supplier Registration.
10:00 am
10:45 am

Professional Development Session - Mastering the Roundtables

Segura 1-4 - Lower Level JW Marriott
David Suarez
Mastering the Roundtables - Master simple strategies to get the most out of your roundtable sessions – maximizing your allotted time to position you as the go-to vendor for your airline contacts! Learn more >
11:00 am
12:30 pm

Headshot Photo Lounge

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
Deb Scally Photography
Sit for a free headshot photo to use on LinkedIn, social media, company website, company portfolio, marketing or advertising - wherever a good photo is required! Deb Scally is a Nashville-based portrait photographer with more than a decade of experience in public and private sector events.
12:00 pm
4:30 pm

Professional Development Session - Seven Steps in Strategic Supplier Alliance

Amarante 2-3 - Lower Level JW Marriott
Bill Agee
Learn a proven seven step framework for transforming supplier relationships from transactional to strategic, driving collaboration, innovation, continued support the contract horizon and long-term value. Learn more >
12:45 pm
1:45 pm

ACPC Mobile App Help Desk

Del Lago Foyer - Lower Level JW Marriott
hosted by Cvent
Saturday and Sunday ONLY! Stop by the Mobile App Help Desk to learn how to fully utilize the 2026 ACPC mobile app and get the most out of your time during the conference! Get tips on how to take advantage of networking opportunities, keep track of exhibitor and attendee information, contribute photos and comments to the social activity feed and more.
1:00 pm
7:00 pm

Badge Pickup

Del Lago Foyer - Lower Level JW Marriott
Bring a photo ID and your registration QR code (printed or on your smart phone) to pick up your 2026 ACPC badge and wristband. Both badge and wristband are required for entry to ALL ACPC events. Lost badges and/or wristbands will NOT be replaced.
1:00 pm
7:00 pm

Connection Tracker Tool Assistance

Del Lago Foyer - Lower Level JW Marriott (Registration Customer Service Desk)
Have questions on ACPC's newest networking tool? Stop by the Registration Help Desk to discover how the Connection Tracker app makes it fast and easy to capture contact info and follow up with your new connections.
1:00 pm
7:00 pm

Airline Roundtable Appointment Selection

Del Lago - Lower Level JW Marriott
Airline Roundtable Selection appointments are by Priority Grouping only.
1:15 pm
5:00 pm

Professional Development Session - Mastering the Roundtables

Segura 1-4 - Lower Level JW Marriott
David Suarez
Mastering the Roundtables - Did you miss the earlier session? This is a repeat of the 11:00 AM session. Master simple strategies to get the most out of your roundtable sessions – maximizing your allotted time to position you as the go-to vendor for your airline contacts! Learn more >
1:30 pm
2:30 pm

Peer to Peer Chat Circle - Balancing the Burn – Staying Energized in a Demanding Industry

Amarante 1 - Lower Level JW Marriott
facilitated by Althea Arvin & Tonya Wondolowski
Share strategies for managing stress, maintaining energy, and setting boundaries in high-pressure aviation roles. Learn more >
2:00 pm
3:00 pm

Professional Development Session - Advanced Key Purchasing Techniques

Segura 1-4 - Lower Level JW Marriott
Bill Agee
Explore advanced purchasing methods that optimize cost, timing, inventory, and service levels, drawn from Bill Agee’s extensive cross industry procurement experience. Implementing these can change the dynamics of your company's performance and profitability. Learn more >
2:45 pm
3:45 pm

Elevating Your Professional Presence: A Skills‑Building Workshop

Amarante 2-3 - Lower Level JW Marriott
facilitated by Interactive Training Solutions
In this interactive 1.5 hour workshop, attendees will participate in hands on exercises designed to strengthen their networking presence, communication style, and sales effectiveness. Through guided practice, real time feedback, and collaborative activities, participants will build practical skills they can immediately apply throughout the conference and in their day to day professional interactions. This session helps professionals show up with confidence, purpose, and stronger connection in every conversation.
3:00 pm
4:30 pm

Live Crowd Trivia

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
hosted by Jay Bant
Live Crowd Trivia Contest returns this year in the Hospitality Suite with all new content. Test your knowledge against the best of the best on Aviation Topics. Winners get prizes!
4:30 pm
5:00 pm

Welcome Reception & Welcome Address

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
Rachel Niederer, Board of Directors & Airline Advisory Council
Enjoy appetizers and cocktails during this reception, network with other attendees and hear from your ACPC Chairman, your Board of Directors and your ALL NEW Airline Advisory Council as they welcome you to the 2026 ACPC!
5:15 pm
7:00 pm

Sunday, August 30, 2026

Airline Roundtable Appointment Selection Support

Del Lago - Lower Level JW Marriott
Have questions about your Airline Roundtable appointments? Need your appointment schedule re-emailed or re-printed? Stop by the desk for assistance.
8:00 am
12:30 pm

Airline Roundtable Appointment Selection

Del Lago - Lower Level JW Marriott
Supplier companies can secure additional Roundtable meetings, if available.
8:00 am
12:30 pm

Badge Pickup

Del Lago Foyer - Lower Level JW Marriott
Bring a photo ID and your registration QR code (printed or on your smart phone) to pick up your 2026 ACPC badge and wristband. Both badge and wristband are required for entry to ALL ACPC events. Lost badges and/or wristbands will NOT be replaced.
8:00 am
12:30 pm

Connection Tracker Tool Assistance

Del Lago Foyer - Lower Level JW Marriott (Registration Customer Service Desk)
Have questions on ACPC's newest networking tool? Stop by the Registration Help Desk to discover how the Connection Tracker app makes it fast and easy to capture contact info and follow up with your new connections.
8:00 am
12:30 pm

ACPC Mobile App Help Desk

Del Lago Foyer - Lower Level JW Marriott
hosted by Cvent
Saturday and Sunday ONLY! Stop by the Mobile App Help Desk to learn how to fully utilize the 2026 ACPC mobile app and get the most out of your time during the conference! Get tips on how to take advantage of networking opportunities, keep track of exhibitor and attendee information, contribute photos and comments to the social activity feed and more.
8:00 am
12:30 pm

Aviation Networking Forum - Booth Set-Up for Suppliers

Coquina Ballroom - JW Marrriott
Registered Suppliers with reserved booth space may set up their booths during this time.
8:30 am
11:30 am

Professional Development Session - Ten Major Contract Clauses That Cause Purchasing/SCM Issues

Amarante 2-3 - Lower Level JW Marriott
Bill Agee
Gain clarity on the ten contract clauses most likely to create operational challenges—and learn how to interpret, negotiate, and manage them effectively. Recall a contract is usually agreed to by two-parties which means you have the rights of acceptance, rejection or modification of such terms. Learn not to fear or dread the contract. Learn more >
9:00 am
10:00 am

Airline Panel Discussion - What Airlines Want: Procurement Priorities & Partnership Vision

Segura 1-4 - Lower Level JW Marriott
moderated by Elizabeth Lucas-Averett ("Ella")
Get inside the minds of airline decision-makers. This all-new panel brings together leaders in airline supply chain, purchasing and repair to share what they’re actively sourcing, how they evaluate supplier partnerships, and what makes a vendor truly stand out. Learn more >
9:00 am
10:30 am

Meet & Greet Sessions

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
Open to Suppliers and Airlines - A 30-minute time slot for you to talk business in a casual and relaxed environment! Just show up, take a seat, and let the business come to you! Learn more >
10:00 am
3:30 pm

ACPC Business Development Power Hub

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
hosted by Interactive Training Solutions & David Goad Speaks
Take advantage of FREE coaching in key areas that are critical for creating, developing and maintaining a strong business network! Learn more >
10:00 am
3:30 pm

Headshot Photo Lounge

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
Deb Scally Photography
Sit for a free headshot photo to use on LinkedIn, social media, company website, company portfolio, marketing or advertising - wherever a good photo is required! Deb Scally is a Nashville-based portrait photographer with more than a decade of experience in public and private sector events.
10:00 am
3:30 pm

Hospitality Suite

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
Grab a drink or refreshment of your choice, sit down, catch up on work, relax, or network and talk some business in our Hospitality Suite. Learn more >
10:00 am
3:30 pm

Professional Development Session - Negotiations Preparations for Success

Amarante 2-3 - Lower Level JW Marriott
Bill Agee
Discover a structured, repeatable preparation process that strengthens your negotiation strategy, improves outcomes, and builds confidence at the table. This session will highlight key tools which will not only improve your negotiations, plus provides you tools (Negotiation Checklist, LOB Profiles for price and cost, LOB Profiles for non-price items, and a Negotiation Postmortem) to continue to carry the improvements and the savings forward in both your professional career as well as your personal life. Learn more >
10:30 am
11:30 am

Private Airline Luncheon

Mediterranean Ballroom - 1-3 JW Marriott
Elizabeth Lucas-Averett ("Ella")
Open to registered Airline attendees only! Join us for lunch at 11:30 AM before perusing the Aviation Networking Forum (ANF) during the Airline Only time beginning at 1:00 PM. In her airline exclusive luncheon keynote, "Beyond Boundaries: Leading Through Complexity in the Next Era of Aviation Supply Chains", Elizabeth Lucas Averett shares strategic insights on navigating today’s increasingly complex aviation supply chains. Learn more >
11:30 am
12:45 pm

Peer to Peer Chat Circle - My Favorite Tool for Staying Organized

Amarante 1 - Lower Level JW Marriott
facilitated by Robert Bial & Chris Schroh
Exchange practical tools, systems, and habits that support focus, clarity, and efficiency across aviation roles. Learn more >
11:45 am
12:45 pm

Professional Development Session - Digital Influence Essentials: Sales, LinkedIn & Social Media Strategies

Amarante 2-3 - Lower Level JW Marriott
Interactive Training Solutions
This one-hour skill building session provides attendees with targeted coaching on modern sales techniques, LinkedIn optimization, and social media presence. Participants will learn how to strengthen their digital brand, communicate value online, and use social platforms to support relationship building and business development.
1:00 pm
2:00 pm

Aviation Networking Forum - Airlines Only

Coquina Ballroom - JW Marriott
This time is reserved for Airline attendees only to peruse the exhibit area
1:00 pm
3:30 pm

Connection Tracker Tool Assistance

Del Lago Foyer - Lower Level JW Marriott (Registration Customer Service Desk)
Have questions on ACPC's newest networking tool? Stop by the Registration Help Desk to discover how the Connection Tracker app makes it fast and easy to capture contact info and follow up with your new connections.
1:30 pm
6:00 pm

Badge Pickup

Del Lago Foyer - Lower Level JW Marriott
Bring a photo ID and your registration QR code (printed or on your smart phone) to pick up your 2026 ACPC badge and wristband. Both badge and wristband are required for entry to ALL ACPC events. Lost badges and/or wristbands will NOT be replaced.
1:30 pm
6:00 pm

ACPC Mobile App Help Desk

Del Lago Foyer - Lower Level JW Marriott
hosted by Cvent
Saturday and Sunday ONLY! Stop by the Mobile App Help Desk to learn how to fully utilize the 2026 ACPC mobile app and get the most out of your time during the conference! Get tips on how to take advantage of networking opportunities, keep track of exhibitor and attendee information, contribute photos and comments to the social activity feed and more.
1:30 pm
6:00 pm

Aviation Networking Forum - Open to Airline & Supplier Attendees

Coquina Ballroom - JW Marriott
The exhibit area is open both Airline & Supplier attendees during this time. Learn more >
3:30 pm
6:00 pm

Buffet Dinner Reception - Return to Paradise

Mediterranean Ballroom - JW Marriott
featuring Red Clay Rumble
Kick off Sunday night with a tropical dinner buffet, live tunes from Red Clay Rumble, and a lively dance floor. Our Tropical Game & Contest Zone will be open all night with a rotating mix of casual, island‑themed activities.
7:00 pm
10:00 pm

Monday, August 31, 2026

Airline Private Networking

Ritz Carlton Ballroom - Ritz Carlton
Airline Attendees - Come early and enjoy coffee and bagels while networking with other airline attendees before the Round Table Sessions begin.
9:00 am
9:50 am

Badge Pickup & Customer Service

Del Lago - Lower Level JW Marriott
Bring a photo ID and your registration QR code (printed or on your smart phone) to pick up your 2026 ACPC badge and wristband. Both badge and wristband are required for entry to ALL ACPC events. Lost badges and/or wristbands will NOT be replaced.
9:00 am
10:00 am

Professional Development Session

Amarante 2-3 - Lower Level JW Marriott
TBA
9:00 am
10:00 am

Connection Tracker Tool Assistance

Del Lago - Lower Level JW Marriott (Registration Customer Service Desk)
Have questions on ACPC's newest networking tool? Stop by the Registration Help Desk to discover how the Connection Tracker app makes it fast and easy to capture contact info and follow up with your new connections.
9:00 am
10:00 am

Headshot Photo Lounge

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
Deb Scally Photography
Sit for a free headshot photo to use on LinkedIn, social media, company website, company portfolio, marketing or advertising - wherever a good photo is required! Deb Scally is a Nashville-based portrait photographer with more than a decade of experience in public and private sector events.
9:00 am
12:00 pm

Meet & Greet Sessions

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
Open to Suppliers and Airlines - A 30-minute time slot for you to talk business in a casual and relaxed environment! Just show up, take a seat, and let the business come to you! Learn more >
9:00 am
12:00 pm

ACPC Business Development Power Hub

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
hosted by Interactive Training Solutions & David Goad Speaks
Take advantage of FREE coaching in key areas that are critical for creating, developing and maintaining a strong business network! Learn more >
9:00 am
12:00 pm

Hospitality Suite

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
Grab a drink or refreshment of your choice, sit down, catch up on work, relax, or network and talk some business in our Hospitality Suite. Learn more >
9:00 am
12:00 pm

Peer to Peer Chat Circle - Gender Bias in Aviation Business – What We’ve Seen, What We’ve Shifted

Amarante 1 - Lower Level JW Marriott
facilitated by Cathy Galbraith
Create space for honest dialogue about gender bias and inclusion and share practical shifts that foster belonging. Learn more >
9:15 am
10:15 am

Airline Roundtable Sessions

Ritz Carlton Ballroom - Ritz Carlton
A flagship event of the ACPC, Airline Roundtable meetings are considered to be one of the core ingredients that have made the conference so successful for 69 years. Learn more >
10:00 am
12:00 pm

Professional Development Session

Amarante 2-3 - Lower Level JW Marriott
TBA
10:30 am
11:30 am

Peer to Peer Chat Circle - The Art of the Difficult Conversation

Amarante 1 - Lower Level JW Marriott
facilitated by Dennis Suedkamp & John Rogers
Build confidence and empathy around high-stakes conversations—whether with clients, vendors, or internal teams. Learn more >
10:45 am
11:45 am

Business Luncheon and Keynote Speaker - Elevating Connection, Creativity, and Courage in the Next Era of Air Travel

Mediterranean Ballroom - JW Marriott
Jeff Rogers
Join Jeff Rogers, master storyteller and improvisational energizer, for a keynote experience unlike any other. This “Un‑Keynote” blends humor, interaction, and practical tools to help sales and supply chain leaders unlock their creative edge, build trust across silos, and lead with boldness in a rapidly evolving industry. Learn more >
12:15 pm
1:30 pm

Airline Roundtable Sessions

Ritz Carlton Ballroom - Ritz Carlton
A flagship event of the ACPC, Airline Roundtable meetings are considered to be one of the core ingredients that have made the conference so successful for 69 years. Learn more >
1:50 pm
5:00 pm

Professional Development Session - Elevating Connection, Creativity, and Courage in the Next Era of Air Travel (deep dive)

Amarante 2-3 - Lower Level JW Marriott
Jeff Rogers
Did you enjoy the luncheon keynote address? If you’d like to continue the conversation, join Jeff at 2:00pm in Amarante (Lower Level, JW Marriott) for an intimate deep‑dive session with expanded discussion and Q&A. Learn more >
2:00 pm
3:00 pm

Meet & Greet Sessions

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
Open to Suppliers and Airlines - A 30-minute time slot for you to talk business in a casual and relaxed environment! Just show up, take a seat, and let the business come to you! Learn more >
2:00 pm
5:00 pm

Headshot Photo Lounge

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
Deb Scally Photography
Sit for a free headshot photo to use on LinkedIn, social media, company website, company portfolio, marketing or advertising - wherever a good photo is required! Deb Scally is a Nashville-based portrait photographer with more than a decade of experience in public and private sector events.
2:00 pm
5:00 pm

Hospitality Suite

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
Grab a drink or refreshment of your choice, sit down, catch up on work, relax, or network and talk some business in our Hospitality Suite. Learn more >
2:00 pm
6:00 pm

ACPC Business Development Power Hub

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
hosted by Interactive Training Solutions & David Goad Speaks
Take advantage of FREE coaching in key areas that are critical for creating, developing and maintaining a strong business network! Learn more >
2:00 pm
6:00 pm

Professional Development Session

Segura 1-4 - Lower Level JW Marriott
David Suarez
Beyond the Roundtables - Keep the momentum after the ACPC and discover how to maintain and nurture the relationships you’ve started once you’re back in the office. Learn more >
3:30 pm
4:30 pm

Professional Development Session

Amarante 2-3 - Lower Level JW Marriott
TBA
4:00 pm
5:00 pm

Live Crowd Trivia II

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
hosted by Jay Bant
If you missed the fun on Saturday night, this is your chance to test your knowledge against the best of the best on Aviation Topics. For those of you who played on Saturday, come back and play again in an all-new game. Winners get prizes!
5:00 pm
5:30 pm

Semi Formal Banquet Dinner - Ascend into the Night

Mediterranean Ballroom - JW Marriott
Semi Formal Attire/Business Attire (No Jeans, T-Shirts, Shorts)
7:00 pm
9:00 pm

Entertainment

Mediterranean Ballroom - JW Marriott
Sugar Vibe
.We’re closing out Monday night in true celebration style as we Ascend into the Night with Orlando’s own Sugar Vibe—a powerhouse party band that brings rhythm, soul, and nonstop energy to the stage. Learn more >
9:00 pm
10:00 pm

Tuesday, September 1, 2026

Supplier Closed Meeting

Segura 2-3 - Lower Level JW Marriott
8:00 am
8:30 am

Airline Closed Meeting

Amarante 2-3 - Lower Level JW Marriott
8:00 am
8:30 am

Badge Pickup & Customer Service

Del Lago - Lower Level JW Marriott
Bring a photo ID and your registration QR code (printed or on your smart phone) to pick up your 2026 ACPC badge and wristband. Both badge and wristband are required for entry to ALL ACPC events. Lost badges and/or wristbands will NOT be replaced.
9:00 am
10:00 am

Connection Tracker Tool Assistance

Del Lago - Lower Level JW Marriott (Registration Customer Service Desk)
Have questions on ACPC's newest networking tool? Stop by the Registration Help Desk to discover how the Connection Tracker app makes it fast and easy to capture contact info and follow up with your new connections.
9:00 am
10:00 am

Hospitality Suite

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
Grab a drink or refreshment of your choice, sit down, catch up on work, relax, or network and talk some business in our Hospitality Suite. Learn more >
9:00 am
12:00 pm

Headshot Photo Lounge

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
Deb Scally Photography
This is your last chance to sit for a free headshot photo to use on LinkedIn, social media, company website, company portfolio, marketing or advertising - wherever a good photo is required! Deb Scally is a Nashville-based portrait photographer with more than a decade of experience in public and private sector events.
9:00 am
12:00 pm

Meet & Greet Sessions

Palazzo Ballroom - JW Marriott
Open to Suppliers and Airlines - A 30-minute time slot for you to talk business in a casual and relaxed environment! Just show up, take a seat, and let the business come to you! Learn more >
9:00 am
12:00 pm

Airline Roundtable Sessions

Ritz Carlton Ballroom - Ritz Carlton
A flagship event of the ACPC, Airline Roundtable meetings are considered to be one of the core ingredients that have made the conference so successful for 69 years. Learn more >
9:00 am
12:20 pm

Business Luncheon and Entertainment

Mediterranean Ballroom - JW Marriott
Nathan Coe Marsh
12:30 pm
1:30 pm