March 11–14, 2026 | Tucson, AZ
Forming Our Future 2026 brought the PMA community together for four unforgettable days in the desert. From inspiring keynotes and educational sessions to stargazing dinners and off‑road adventures, this year’s leadership conference had everything.
With a strong turnout of first‑time attendees, a vibrant mix of seasoned leaders and emerging leaders, and the stunning backdrop of the JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa, the 2026 event aimed for the stars and delivered.
Wednesday, March 11: Welcome to Tucson
The conference kicked off with a warm desert welcome as attendees arrived, checked in and immediately began making new connections.
First Timers Blast Off
The First Timers FOF 101 session and reception brought together a large number of newcomers and the energy was unmistakable. Conversations flowed easily, introductions turned into instant connections and the excitement for the days ahead was palpable.
Early Arrivals Reception
As the sun set over the mountains, the Tash Lawn filled with familiar faces, new friends and the kind of relaxed, easy networking that makes FOF special. Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and the perfect Tucson evening set the tone for the entire conference.
Thursday, March 12: Keynotes, Insights and A Galactic Evening
Thursday marked the official start of the conference.
Keynote: Captain Chris Cassidy
Retired U.S. Navy SEAL and NASA astronaut Captain Chris Cassidy delivered a powerful message about perseverance, opportunity and the never‑quit mindset.
Economic and Policy Insights
Connor Lokar of ITR Economics broke down the outlook for 2026–2027, giving attendees actionable insights to navigate the shifting business cycle.
Later, PMA’s Washington, D.C. team delivered a timely update on tariffs, taxes and regulatory changes shaping the manufacturing landscape.
Into the Future: A Galactic Dining Experience
The evening’s space‑themed Chairman’s Dinner was a showstopper. Attendees arrived in everything from starship‑captain chic to full futuristic glam. With glowing décor, starlit skies and entertainment, it was a night that truly felt like we were in the future.
Friday, March 13: Education, Engagement and Tucson Adventures
Friday blended learning, giving back and outdoor exploration.
Morning Sessions
The day opened with a metals market update, followed by “The Power 10”, a rapid‑fire session packed with strategies for operational excellence, sales performance and tax planning.
Breakout tracks covered everything from tax incentives and transferable value to sales team development and real‑world generative AI deployments. Attendees walked away with practical tools to take home.
Hunger Bag Challenge
Spouses and guests joined forces for a volunteer activity supporting the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. Friendly competition, teamwork and a shared mission made this one of the most uplifting moments of the conference.
Afternoon Adventures
Attendees fanned out across Tucson for optional activities: wine tasting, golf, the Sonoran Desert Museum and off‑roading jeep excursions. Whether you were sipping local vintages or bouncing across desert trails, the afternoon showcased the best of Tucson’s unique landscape and culture.
Saturday, March 14: Leadership, Celebration and Farewell
The final day wrapped the conference with inspiration and celebration.
Annual Meeting and Officer Recognition
Members gathered for important association updates and to honor PMA’s current and incoming officers.
Closing Keynote: Sheryl Connelly
Former Ford Chief Futurist Sheryl Connelly delivered a dynamic closing keynote on navigating disruption and thinking like a futurist. Her insights on strategic foresight and scenario planning provided attendees with the energy to lead.
Dinner and Dancing in the City of Stars
The conference closed with a festive evening of dinner, drinks and dancing. It was the perfect finale to four days of connection, learning and desert‑sky magic.
See You in Orlando: March 10–13, 2027
If Tucson taught us anything, it’s that Forming Our Future is more than a conference—it’s a community. And this year’s mix of first‑timers, long‑time members, powerful sessions and unforgettable experiences made it clear: you don’t want to miss the next one.
We’ll see you in Orlando, FL, on March 10–13, 2027. To make sure you don’t miss when registration opens, add your name here.