Dust off your cowboy hat, lace up your boots and head to Arizona this October

By Emma Peterson. 

The FEI Group is headed to Arizona for their 2026 National Conference!  

From October 21 to 23, 2026, the FEI Group will be hosting their 27th annual National Conference at the JW Marriot Desert Ridge Resort & Spa in Phoenix, Arizona. Members can expect the usual action-packed agenda complete with learning opportunities, networking activities and more!  

The first day, Wednesday, October 21, kicks off with registration and a variety of breakout sessions with groups like the KBx Advisory Council, the Exterior Contractor Alliance and Traffic Safety Solutions. The first big event of the conference is the Powerhouse Panel (3 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.), which gives the stage to experts and leaders for a discussion of “the current state of the market, emerging opportunities, economic headwinds and what business leaders should be preparing for in 2027 and beyond.” 

Right after this session ends, attendees are invited to the Welcome Reception and Give Back event. This event gives you time to meet your peers, get ready for the conference and support No Child Hungry alongside the FEI Group.  

The second day, Thursday, October 22, is full of education sessions and opportunities. It starts off at 9 a.m. with a keynote presentation from Damon West. Damon is a college professor (M.S. Criminal Justice) and a bestselling author. His journey in life has taken him from a Division 1 locker room at the University of North Texas, the United States Congress, a Texas prison and to the international stage as a speaker. In his talk, Damon will share his story of “redemption, grit and determination.” 

After Damon’s talk, attendees will transition into Learning Academy Sessions. This year’s conference has sessions on everything from artificial intelligence and contract clauses to building business processes and effective sales tactics. Once you’ve soaked up all the knowledge you could want, FEI has planned an evening out under the Sonoran Desert sky. From 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday, the hotel lawn will be transformed into an elevated western experience, complete with a soundtrack thanks to Chad Freeman and Redline. 

And for the final day of the conference, Friday, October 23, FEI has organized three fun activities that give you the perfect setting to network with other attendees: 

1. Golf at the Faldo Course: Faldo is one of Arizona’s premier golf destinations and you can explore the stunning course for yourself with this activity! Golfers should hit the driving range around 10:45 a.m. and the competition for the annual McKinnis Cup will begin at 12 p.m. with a shotgun start.  
2. A pickleball tournament: Kicking off at 11 a.m., this is your opportunity to showcase your pickleball skills. And in addition to the tournament, there will be a hands-on clinic from instructors and a mimosa bar! Paddles will be provided through the hotel. If you have your own equipment, you’re welcome to bring it. 
3. A venture into Old Town Scottsdale: Looking for an activity with a little less competition? FEI has organized complimentary shuttles that arrive at 11:30 a.m. and take conference attendees to the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. From the local food scene and art galleries to the charming boutiques and streets, there’s plenty to fill the rest of the day. Return transport is not provided, but rideshares like Uber and Lyft are common in the area. 

The conference officially closes at 6 p.m., after all of these events, with a cocktail send off on the ballroom lawn!  

Register to attend today!