Are You “Curious” About the 2025 Conference? You Should Be!

Candace Carnahan, ACE
2025 W.A.C.E. Conference Committee Chair
President/CEO, Grand Junction Area (CO) Chamber

As many of you know from your own experiences, curiosity is one of the most powerful tools a leader can wield. Whether you’re navigating success or working through challenges, approaching each moment with a genuine desire to explore, learn, and grow often leads to the most unexpected and impactful outcomes. That’s the spirit we’re bringing to this year’s W.A.C.E. Conference with our theme, "Sparking Curiosity to Inspire Community."

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This conference promises to be an interactive experience like no other. We're creating spaces that invite you to lean in, ask more questions, and dig deeper into the issues that matter most to your Chamber and your community. Beyond the traditional sessions, this year is filled with opportunities to share your ideas, create impromptu meet-ups with fellow attendees, and engage directly with vendors and industry experts who are shaping the future of our work. Our goal is to make sure that every aspect of this conference helps you find solutions to those “how can we” and “what if we tried” moments that all Chamber leaders face.

And we’re not stopping there. With a little help from the unique energy of Las Vegas, we’ve designed events that encourage connection and collaboration in new ways. The cultivated excursions on February 4th are just the beginning. Whether you’re touring Allegiant Stadium, marveling at the history of the Neon Museum, or exploring the economic strategies powering Henderson and Las Vegas, these experiences will help forge stronger ties and spark new ideas.

Now is the time to prioritize opportunities like this for professional development. With registration opening in mid-October, I encourage you to start planning now. The insights and resources we’re gathering are designed to benefit Chambers of all sizes and staff at every level. Whether you're looking to refine leadership skills, discover innovative approaches to economic development, or build lasting connections, this conference has something valuable for everyone.

I know firsthand how hard our work can be, but I also know how vital it is to take time to recharge and reignite that passion. This conference is your chance to do just that—to find fresh inspiration, explore innovative ideas, and make meaningful connections with peers who understand the unique challenges and joys of our industry.

So, as you look ahead to the coming months, I hope you’ll feel the excitement building. This year is about more than just attending a conference; it’s about diving into new opportunities and emerging more energized and ready to lead your community forward.

Let's come together, embrace the unknown, and see just how far our curiosity can take us!

P.S. For the most current information about the conference at any time, visit the conference landing page.    Check out the welcome message from our keynote speaker!