Schedule-at-a-Glance
Click the session title to view description and speaker details.
Please note: Program is updated regularly and is subject to change.
6:00 pm
VMA Board of Directors Dinner (Invitation only.)
8:00 am – 12:00 pm
VMA Board of Directors Meeting (Invitation only.)
1:00 pm
Welcome & Opening Remarks
1:15 pm – 2:15 pm
The Tech Energy Transition
Program Session
The Tech Energy Transition
This session will explore how new technologies and a new administration are impacting the energy landscape. Specifically, it will focus on how artificial intelligence, Big Tech, and the explosion in data center development are shaping investments and the regulatory regimes for various energy technologies. The types of energy best suited to meet this increased demand, as well as some of the opportunities and challenges of available energy options will also be discussed.
Speaker Info
Amy L. Stein, JD, Cone Wagner Professor of Law, University of Florida Levin College of Law
2:15 pm – 3:30 pm
Government Policy Insights & Impacts
Program Session
Government Policy Insights & Impacts
The start of the second Trump administration began with a flurry of Executive Orders, and has not slowed down. With policy shifts on tariffs, taxes and many regulatory areas, there is a lot for companies to digest. This session will provide a review of federal activities to date, and will also look forward on what could be forthcoming. We’ll also discuss the interplay between all three branches of government and the states to help explain the landscape and issues to be watching – from PFAS to energy and others – for our industry.
Speaker Info
Eric McClafferty, Partner, International Trade, Kelley Drye LLC
Omar Nashashibi, Owner, Inside Beltway
3:30 pm – 3:45 pm
Networking Break
3:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Spouse/Guest Program
Special Event
Spouse/Guest Program
Join other spouses and guest for a meet and greet. Enjoy light refreshments and catch up with friends, and meet new attendees, as you look forward to your time at the VMA/VRC Annual Meeting.
Click here for more information.
3:45 pm – 4:00 pm
VMA’s Response: PFAS, Trade, Taxes & More
Program Session
VMA’s Response: PFAS, Trade, Taxes & More
More Info Coming Soon!
4:00 pm – 4:55 pm
Artificial Intelligence
Program Session
Artificial Intelligence
More Info Coming Soon!
4:45 pm – 5:00 pm
Closing Remarks
5:30 pm – 6:00 pm
New Member & First-Time Attendee Reception
Special Event
New Member & First-Time Attendee Reception
New to VMA or attending your first Annual Meeting? Join VMA leadership and fellow first-timers for a dedicated welcome reception. Make new connections and learn how to get the most from your membership.
Dress Code: Resort casual
6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Welcome Reception & Dinner
Special Event
Welcome Reception & Dinner
Enjoy a casual beachside evening with colleagues as the sun sets over the Gulf. This relaxed dinner features local flavors and food stations in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Dress Code: Resort casual
7:30 am – 8:30 am
Breakfast
7:30 am – 8:30 am
VRC Business Meeting
VRC members are encouraged to attend this session for updates on key initiatives and council direction for the year ahead.
8:30 am – 9:15 am
Automation as a Catalyst for Operational and Workforce Transformation
Program Session
Automation as a Catalyst for Operational and Workforce Transformation
Automation is transforming every stage of the valve manufacturing process—from production to warehousing and quality control and testing. It is no longer just a cost-saver—it’s a strategic asset. This session provides a high-level overview of key technologies, including fixed, programmable, and flexible automation, industrial robotics, CNC-integrated systems, and IoT-enabled process monitoring. We’ll examine how automation supports the workforce by reducing repetitive tasks, improving accuracy, and enabling scalable, efficient operations. With labor markets becoming tighter and talent more competitive, companies must leverage automation to stay productive and resilient. Through current trends and examples, C-suite leaders will gain strategic insights into deploying automation across their operations. Whether you’re just getting started or scaling up your automation strategy, this session will offer practical insights and a clear path forward for building a more resilient, intelligent, and competitive valve enterprise.
Speaker Info
Miles Anderson, VP, Automation, MiddleGround Capital
9:15 am – 10:15 am
Market Trends & Forecasts
Program Session
Water/Wastewater Industry Outlook
This presentation will include the outlook for the water/wastewater industry, including sector specific forecasts. In addition, the outlook will cover the capital spending outlook and discussion of recent trends.
Speaker Info
Tom Decker, Owner, Thomas E. Decker Consulting
10:15 am – 10:30 am
Refreshment Break
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Supply Chain: Insights & Implications for Future Planning
Program Session
Supply Chain: Insights & Implications for Future Planning
Speaker Info
Lisa Anderson, MBA, CSCP, CLTD, Owner, LMA Consulting Group
12:00 pm
Lunch on Your Own
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Optional Networking Activities
Spend your free afternoon networking in a more casual setting. Explore the local area, try something new, or join a friendly competition while connecting with fellow leaders. Spouse/guest participation welcome. Separate registration required for all. Click here for more networking activity information and associated costs.
- Golf Tournament
- Backwater Fishing
- Revs Institute Car Museum Tour
- Airboat Swamp Adventure
5:00 pm
Evening on Your Own
7:30 am – 8:00 am
Breakfast
8:00 am – 9:00 am
VMA Business Meeting
An important update on VMA’s strategic plans, member programs, and future goals. Open to all VMA members.
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Spouse/Guest Program
Walking Tour of the Naples Historic District. Click here for a full description and cost.
- Walking Tour of Naples Historic District
9:00 am – 9:15 am
Refreshment Break
9:15 am – 10:15 am
Building an Effective Talent Strategy
Program Session
Building an Effective Talent Strategy: Proven Tactics to Attract, Hire and Retain Your Most Valuable Asset
Despite economic uncertainty, the competition for top talent remains intense—and not all organizations are prepared. This session offers data-driven insights to help leaders attract, hire, and retain high-performing talent in today’s complex labor market. Learn what makes companies stand out, what top candidates want, and how to implement best-in-class hiring and retention strategies. Gain practical guidance to evolve your talent approach and position your organization for long-term success in a rapidly shifting workforce landscape.
Speaker Info
Alex Chausovsky, Director of Analytics, Bundy Group
10:15 am – 10:45 am
Member Perspectives Panel
More information coming soon.
10:45 am – 12:00 pm
Understanding Economic and Geopolitical Macro Influencers
Program Session
Strategic Outlook 2025: Geopolitics, Policy, and Economic Headwinds
The world is undergoing major shifts in 2025—from new administrations in North America and Europe to an emboldened China reshaping global dynamics. In the U.S., unilateral trade actions and tariff threats have created widespread uncertainty, impacting consumer confidence and business optimism. Meanwhile, mixed economic signals—strong retail and industrial data alongside weak sentiment—are fueling debate over the risk of recession. This session will offer timely insights into global flashpoints, shifting alliances, and economic implications. From war and trade barriers to supply chain risk and scenario planning, you’ll gain a clear understanding of today’s geopolitical forces—and practical guidance to help your organization respond with agility and confidence. Attendees will gain practical insights on how to navigate the current economic climate, assess potential risks and opportunities, and plan for future operating conditions. Designed for business leaders, this presentation will equip you with tactical guidance and tools to make confident, forward-looking decisions in a rapidly evolving global economy.
Speaker Info
Alex Chausovsky, Director of Analytics, Bundy Group
Eugene Chausovsky, Senior Director, New Lines Institute
12:00 pm
Lunch on Your Own
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Optional Networking Activities
Spend your free afternoon networking in a more casual setting. Explore the local area, try something new, or join a friendly competition while connecting with fellow leaders. Spouse/guest participation welcome. Separate registration required for all. Click here for more networking activity information and associated costs.
- Go Cat Boats Eco Tour
- Pickleball Lessons & Tournament
- Naples Electric Trike Tour
6:30 pm – 10:30 pm
VMA Member Awards Ceremony, Reception & Gala Dinner
Special Event
VMA Member Awards Ceremony, Reception & Gala Dinner
Close out the Annual Meeting with a celebratory evening of recognition and connection. Enjoy a festive reception, awards presentation, and a lively evening with a DJ.
Dress Code: Resort elegant
Sessions
More information coming soon.