The FCSI conferences are renowned for their educational and networking opportunities. This year’s The Americas Division (TAD) Conference at the Wigwam Resort near Goodyear, just outside Phoenix, Arizona, is set to continue that tradition.
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“I want people to leave Phoenix buzzing,” says Sojo Alex FCSI, conference committee planning chair and managing director of Envision Strategies. “I’d love for them to get back to their offices or wherever they’re going and immediately start to apply something they heard, reconnect with someone they met, or rethink a challenge.”
For Alex, the highlight of the TAD conference will be bringing the FCSI family together and creating an event people remember, not just for what they saw, but what they took from it. “Beyond technology, we’re trying to dive into how to elevate your impact in every client interaction. We want to help you market yourself and your friends’ firms more effectively in an increasingly competitive landscape. We
will also explore how the next generation of consultants is shaping the industry,” says Alex.
“There is something genuinely useful for everybody, whether they’ve been in the profession for two years or 20 years.”
Something for everyone
The conference opens with a full day of educational sessions, led by the Emerging Professionals in Consulting (EPiC) group, introducing new members and an inspirational presentation by coach Patricia Cook. This is followed by the opening party, offering opportunities for networking and fun.
“My goal with every conference is for everybody to walk out with three new ideas. That, for me, is a big win,” says Wade Koehler, executive director of FCSI The Americas. “You can only absorb so much over a two- to three day event, but if you get three new ideas to take back, that’s successful. Whether they come from sessions, networking, during a break or at a bar, if you learn something new that makes your life, your job or your business better, then that’s a great opportunity for you to learn from someone else.”
Day two starts with a keynote on AI presented by former Google exceutive Dan Chuparkoff, followed by educational breakout sessions. Attendees can then relax by the pool with a DJ, have a drink, and take part in a Q&A session with Brent Hall FCSI, chair of TAD, or other board members. The day concludes with a concert on the lawn featuring some surprises, food, and networking.
“Everybody there is in the same boat. Most people work for small businesses, so a lot of them are experiencing the same difficulties and challenges as you – they just don’t realize it sometimes, ” says Koehler.
“You might find that somebody else is struggling with the exact same thing, and that they found a something to solve it, be it through electronics, a mobile app, time management, a vendor – whatever it might be. That’s what my goal is, and I hope that’s what they walk away with.”
Inspiring stories
Kevin Boehm, esteemed restaurateur and author of The Bottomless Cup, will discuss his inspiring story as a restaurateur, sharing insights from the industry, including his experiences and lessons as the co-founder of Boka Restaurant Group, and personal stories about mental health. Closing keynote speaker Ben Nemtin, The New York Times bestselling author and co-founder of The Buried Life movement, will share insights on purpose and possibility, inspired by his own remarkable story, challenging delegates to think differently with a new perspective.
“We hope attendees leave feeling inspired, energized, and more connected – both to new ideas and to each other,” says Penny Price, director of member services with FCSI TAD.
“Beyond education, our events are about building relationships and creating lasting memories,” adds Price. “Staff and the conference planning committee have been working hard since the Austin conference to put together the quality program and fun experience that our attendees have grown to expect – the bar has been set high, and we hope to exceed your expectations in Phoenix!”
An evening at Chicken and Pickle will follow these inspirational keynotes, featuring food, pickleball courts, bag games, bocce ball, a live DJ, and relationship-building opportunities – all with plenty of fun, food, and cocktails.
“Attendees can expect a dynamic mix of learning, collaboration, and connection. We’ve designed the program to offer valuable insights and practical takeaways, while also creating time for meaningful networking,” says Price. “As always, our evening events will give everyone a chance to unwind, reconnect with old friends, and build new relationships in a relaxed setting. We even have a few fun surprises planned.”
The promise of sunshine
Phoenix is known for its 360 days of sunshine each year, and April will bring beautiful weather for the 350 attendees expected to be staying at the Wigwam Resort. Delegates can expect southwestern flavors, Tex Mex, smokes, sauces, huevos rancheros, and much more from a wide variety of options.
“The Wigwam Resort offers stunning desert landscape views and has a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere,” says Price. “The customer service is fantastic – they are really going above and beyond for our group to ensure a fun, successful event for everyone.”
Almost all – 97% – of the hotel rooms are reserved for FCSI members, and an overflow hotel is available. Everyone will be welcome to get involved in the program’s comprehensive talks and activities and experience the flavor that Phoenix has to offer.
“With every breakout session, we consciously make a decision for there to be something for everyone, regardless of what your specialty is,” says Koehler. “For me, the conferences are probably one of the most enjoyable things about working for FCSI. We see the impact it has on people, both educationally and through networking. And for us, that’s worth every penny.
Lauren Hurrell
