Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) announced the success of its 2026 Women in Equipment Conference by drawing a record-breaking 137 equipment industry professionals who gathered to network and grow their skills.
The conference was held at the Kimpton Aertson Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee, on Sept. 16-18, 2026.
The conference was designed to help elevate women in the equipment industry by introducing them to a mix of perspectives, fresh ideas and tools to support their continued professional growth and success. Attendees learned to build leadership skills, create meaningful connections and explore the real challenges women face in the workplace.
Sessions were highlighted by keynote speaker Jimmy Yeary, who presented "5 Strategies to Songwriting, AKA Building Valuable Relationships." A Grammy Award-winning artist and songwriter, he demonstrated through storytelling, music and real-world insight how authentic emotional connection drives trust, engagement and performance. Yeary wrote a song in real-time with the help of attendees.
Those in attendance praised the conference for creating opportunities to build relationships within the industry.
"I look forward to bringing a team of women from my company to the conference every year," said Kerri Courrier, regional aftermarket manager at RDO Equipment Co. "Seeing the conference celebrate record attendance shows its value for women in the equipment industry throughout North America. The lessons learned, the networking, the new faces, it all makes for an unforgettable experience that will empower anyone who attends."
Following the keynote, the conference featured several sessions including a panel discussion focusing on personal journeys, challenges women in the equipment industry face and stories of success. Attendees connected with Megan Stern of Forvis Mazars and Paulina Matel of Morgan Stanley as they provided strategies for financial security. Another popular session was led by Rachel Kennedy about building your brand as a leader, focusing on how becoming more visible can lead to new opportunities.
"The growth AED experienced during the 2026 Women in Equipment Conference is a testament to the value it brings to our members and the women who help keep the equipment industry going strong," said Brian P. McGuire, president and CEO of AED.
The 2027 AED Women in Equipment Conference will be held Sept. 15–17, 2027, at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego.
