Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) has announced the keynote lineup for the 2027 AED Summit, Jan. 25–27 at Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando, Fla.
The event will feature an exceptional group of leaders and experts headlined by Gen. Mark A. Milley, 20th chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, who will participate in "Dinner and A Conversation" on the final evening of the conference.
Gen. Milley brings more than four decades of military leadership and strategic experience to the Summit. During his tenure as chairman, he served as the principal military adviser to the president, secretary of defense and National Security Council. His conversation will focus on leadership, decision-making, resilience and navigating uncertainty, lessons that resonate with today's equipment industry leaders.
Gen. Milley joins a legacy of AED Summit keynote speakers, including former U.S. Attorney General William P. Barr, Gen. James Mattis, U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley and President George W. Bush.
"General Milley brings a unique perspective on leadership and overcoming complex challenges," said Brian P. McGuire, AED president and CEO. "As the equipment industry continues to navigate a rapidly changing business environment, his insights on leadership, resilience and decision-making will be especially meaningful."
The Summit will also feature:
• Sal Giunta, Medal of Honor recipient, presenting "Uncommon Valor: The Importance of Teamwork, Sacrifice and Leadership"
• Marissa Shandell, a Ph.D. candidate in management and organizational behavior at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, presenting "Unlocking Potential: Empowering Individuals, Teams and Organizations to Thrive"
• Taylor St. Germain, economist and senior consulting speaker at ITR Economics, presenting "Prospering Thru the Cycle," focused on economic trends and business-cycle strategy
The AED Summit is the industrys premier event, where the future of equipment distribution takes shape, according to AED. The 2027 Summit will feature more than 40 educational sessions, keynote speakers and CONDEX, bringing manufacturers and service providers together with equipment distributors from across North America. With the industry facing rapid technological change, evolving workforce needs and shifting regulatory landscapes, Summit provides a forum for leaders to connect, exchange insights, strengthen relationships and shape what comes next, added AED.
