Dan Gardner

Dan Gardner is a New York Times bestselling author and expert in risk management and forecasting. Known for Superforecasting and How Big Things Get Done, his work has been translated into 21 languages. A former journalist and honorary senior fellow at the University of Ottawa, Dan draws on psychology and decision-making research in his talks and has advised organizations like Google, Goldman Sachs, and governments worldwide.

Alex Ayers

Alex Ayers is the VP of Government Affairs at HARDI, serving as the association’s lead lobbyist and policy expert. With nearly a decade of experience on Capitol Hill, he has published research on tax, energy, agriculture, and economic policy, and has testified before Congress. His work has been cited by The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and the Tax Foundation.

Tim Fisher

Tim Fisher is the Director of Market Intelligence at HARDI, leading HVACR industry research focused on wholesale distribution. He oversees one of the sector’s few association-based economic research teams. Previously, Tim worked on federal public finance policy at the Council of Development Finance Agencies. He holds degrees from Ohio University and an MBA from The Ohio State University.

Nicholas Graham

Nick is Principal and Head of Business Development at SCA, helping clients build customized supply chain strategies. With over a decade of experience, he’s led projects in operational excellence, analytics, ERP, and DC design across retail, e-commerce, and more. He’s worked with brands like Burberry, Whole Foods, and Kingfisher, and once pitched his own business on Dragons’ Den.

Marcel Robitaille

Marcel is an operations executive with 30+ years of experience in omni-channel, e-commerce, manufacturing, and consulting. He’s led major transformation projects with Amazon, Lululemon, and Canadian Tire, among others. As GM of Amazon’s largest Canadian fulfillment centers, he oversaw multiple launches and achieved a 200% improvement in quality metrics.

Allison Greene

With over a decade of marketing experience spanning Fortune 500 companies to scrappy startups, Allison has built a career on crafting smart marketing strategy and impactful storytelling. From logistics companies to manufacturing and now distribution, she’s found her sweet spot championing the skilled trades and the people who keep our world running. In her downtime, you’ll find her exploring trails and getting muddy with her husband, daughter, and two rowdy pups.

Kevin Brown

Kevin Brown brings over 30 years of experience in wholesale distribution and manufacturing, having held leadership roles with national distributors, founded and exited a successful sales agency, and operated a manufacturing company. As Co-Founder and CEO of LeadSmart Technologies, he leverages his deep industry insight to help manufacturers and distributors drive growth and improve customer experience through LeadSmart’s AI-enabled Channel Cloud™ CRM platform.

Josh Koplin

Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer at EDEN, Josh Koplin combines hands-on expertise with innovative leadership. From selling 50 HVAC systems while developing the EDEN Instant Quote to overseeing the construction of five power plants during a decade in Tokyo, Josh’s career is a testament to determination and ingenuity. Known as an Excel guru and a sushi enthusiast, he brings both precision and passion to his work and presentations.

Swamp Tour

Join us for an incredible journey into the mysterious swamps and bayous of southern Louisiana. As your swamp boat travels into the depths of Cajun country, you will hear the tales of the Cajun folks and how they reap the bounty of their surroundings.

Haunted History Tour

Delve into the eerie history of the French Quarter on a haunting stroll through its mysterious landmarks. Uncover tales of ghosts, voodoo queens, and haunted mansions as you navigate the narrow streets.

Experiential City Tour

Embark on a journey through the heart of New Orleans, where the French Quarter sets the stage. Explore iconic landmarks at Jackson Square, delve into the unique burial practices at St. Louis No. 3 Cemetery, and witness the impact of Hurricane Katrina.

Get Cooking

Unleash your team's culinary creativity with a team-building experience led by one of New Orleans' most esteemed chefs. Delve into the art of New Orleans cooking, learning the nuances of Cajun and Creole cuisine.

HVAC in the Superdome

Explore the iconic New Orleans Superdome with a guided behind-the-scenes tour of its state-of-the-art HVAC systems. Additional areas of the venue may be included, with details finalized closer to the event.