2026 Annual Conference

Rev Your Engines:

Registration for the 2026 Annual Conference is Officially Open!

Get ready to put the pedal to the metal! We are thrilled to announce that registration is now live for the 2026 Annual Conference in Indianapolis. This year, we are taking over the racing capital of the world with our high-octane theme: Driven.

In a city known for speed, precision, and endurance, we are coming together to accelerate our professional growth and fuel the future of our industry. Whether you are a seasoned pro or just getting onto the track, this is the event designed to help you reach the winner's circle.

September 27–29, 2026 • JW Marriott, Indianapolis, IN


Why You Need to Secure Your Spot:

  • Elite Keynote Speakers: Hear from industry champions who will share the strategies they used to navigate the twists and turns of their careers.
  • Dynamic Breakout Sessions: Tailor your experience with multiple tracks designed to give you the technical and leadership "pit stops" you need to stay ahead.
  • Immersive & Interactive Experiences: This isn’t your average conference. We’ve designed a fully immersive environment with interactive elements and surprises waiting around every corner.
  • Early Arrivers Activity: Getting to the track ahead of schedule? Join our special early arrivers activity to kick off your networking and get a head start before the green flag drops.

Don’t get left in the dust! This is a high-speed event you truly do not want to miss. Secure your registration today and get ready to show the world what it means to be truly Driven.

Weekend Lineup

Women in HVACR 2026 Annual Conference Agenda

Choose a day below to view the conference lineup.

Time Session Location
12:00PM-5:00PM Registration Griffin Foyer
12:30PM-3:30PM Early Arriver Activities White River G-H & I-J
2:00PM-5:00PM Exhibitor Move-In Griffin Hall
3:00PM-4:00PM Breakout – First Timers White River A-B
5:00PM-6:00PM Mentorship Mixer White River C-D
6:00PM-6:30PM Transportation to the IMS Museum
6:30PM-8:30PM The Starting Line Reception @ the IMS Museum
Time Session Location
7:00AM-4:00PM Registration Griffin Foyer
7:30AM-8:30AM Breakfast Buffet White River E-F
9:00AM-9:20AM Opening Remarks White River E-F
9:20AM-9:30AM Agenda Review White River E-F
9:30AM-9:45AM Group Activity White River E-F
9:45AM-10:45AM Keynote: Rebecca Heiss White River E-F
10:45AM-11:00AM Break White River Foyer
11:00AM-11:30AM Momentum Moments White River E-F
11:30AM-12:30PM Lunch - Speaker: HARDI White River E-F
12:45PM-1:45PM Workshops White River A-B, C-D, G-H, I-J
1:45PM-2:00PM Break White River Foyer
2:00PM-3:00PM Workshops White River A-B, C-D, G-H, I-J
3:15PM-6:00PM Vendor Expo – Tailgate Party Griffin Hall
6:00PM-10:00PM Vendor Move-Out Griffin Hall
7:00PM-9:00PM Green Means Go Gala White River E-F
Time Session Location
7:00AM-4:00PM Registration White River Foyer
7:30AM-8:30AM Breakfast Buffet White River E-F
8:00AM-8:45AM Workshops White River A-B, C-D, G-H, I-J
8:45AM-9:00AM Break White River Foyer
9:00AM-9:15AM Opening Remarks White River E-F
9:15AM-10:15AM Keynote: Christine Cashen White River E-F
10:15AM-10:30AM Break White River Foyer
10:30AM-11:30AM Momentum Moments White River E-F
11:30AM-12:30AM Lunch - Speaker: Synchrony White River E-F
12:30PM-12:45PM Break White River Foyer
12:45PM-1:45PM Workshops White River A-B, C-D, G-H, I-J
1:45PM-2:00PM Break White River Foyer
2:00PM-2:45PM Group Activity TBD
2:45PM-2:55PM Closing Remarks TBD
2:55PM-3:00PM "My Next Bold Move" TBD
4:00PM-6:00PM Grease Party – Closing Party White River E-F
Meet the Drivers

Your 2026 Speaker Lineup

Meet the industry leaders taking the stage for this year’s Keynotes, Breakout Sessions and Momentum Moments.

Host City Guide

Take a Victory Lap Around Indianapolis

You're coming for the conference—but don't miss the chance to experience one of the Midwest's most vibrant cities. Known for its world-class hospitality, walkable downtown layout, and rich culture, Indianapolis (affectionately called "Indy") is ready to welcome you! Whether you are looking to explore local dining, hit famous landmarks, or navigate the city effortlessly, this guide has everything you need to make the most of your trip.

Race-Day Essentials

Getting Around

Indianapolis is one of the country's easiest convention cities to explore and navigate.

  • Arriving by Air Indianapolis International Airport is approximately 15 minutes from downtown. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) and taxis are readily available at the Ground Transportation Center.
  • Walkable Downtown Many restaurants and attractions are within a 10-to-15-minute walk.
  • Skywalk System Climate-controlled walkways connect major hotels, venues, dining, and shopping.
  • More Ways to Explore Use Pacers Bikeshare, e-scooters, taxis, rideshare services, or rental cars.
Dining Guide

Fuel Up

Indianapolis offers something for every appetite, whether you're planning a networking dinner or grabbing a bite between activities.

  • St. Elmo Steak House Classic fine dining known for its legendary shrimp cocktail.
  • Milktooth Creative brunch, breakfast, and coffee in historic Fletcher Place.
  • The Garage Food Hall A lively market featuring more than 20 local food and drink vendors.
  • Taxman CityWay Belgian-style craft brews and elevated comfort food.
  • Commission Row Upscale modern dining near Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Local Highlights

Explore Indy

Make the most of your downtime with some of Indianapolis' most popular downtown attractions.

  • Mass Ave & Cultural Trail Explore local shops, galleries, restaurants, theaters, and public art.
  • White River State Park Enjoy scenic paths, canal views, museums, and green space.
  • Monument Circle Visit the heart of downtown and one of the city's most iconic landmarks.
  • Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum Experience the history and legacy of the Indianapolis 500.
September Weather Expect comfortable autumn days around 70–75°F and cooler evenings around 50–55°F. Pack a light jacket or sweater.
Local Visitor Tips Standard U.S. tipping guidelines apply. Downtown Indy Guides in yellow shirts can also help with directions and recommendations.
Race-Day Answers

Your Conference Pit Stop

Have a question before the green flag drops? Find the essential information you need about registration, travel, conference logistics, networking, and the Expo.

Conference Dates September 27–29, 2026
Host Hotel JW Marriott Indianapolis
Conference Theme Driven, Focused, Fearless: Built for Speed
Starting Line

General Information

The conference takes place from Sunday, September 27 through Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at the JW Marriott Indianapolis in Indianapolis, Indiana.

This year's theme is Driven, Focused, Fearless: Built for Speed . Programming will focus on leadership, professional advancement, industry connections, and empowering women throughout every sector of HVACR.

The conference welcomes professionals from across the HVACR industry, including contractors, technicians, manufacturers, distributors, business leaders, educators, and industry supporters.

Programming is designed for both first-time attendees and experienced industry professionals at every stage of their careers.

Secure Your Spot

Registration & Passes

Online registration is open now. Early registration is encouraged to secure your place and help guarantee meal and conference material availability.

Register for the conference
  • Access to all keynote sessions, breakout workshops, and discussions
  • Admission to the Expo and Exhibit Hall
  • Breakfast and lunch on Monday and Tuesday
  • Sunday VIP Lounge access
  • Sunday Welcome and Networking Reception
  • Monday Green Means Go Gala
  • Tuesday Grease-themed closing party

Registration sales are final and refunds are not available.

However, a registration may be transferred to another individual at no additional charge up to seven days before the event.

Plan Your Arrival

Hotel & Travel

Yes. A discounted room block is available at the host hotel, the JW Marriott Indianapolis, where conference activities will take place.

Book your conference room

The discounted rate is available until August 28 or until the room block sells out, whichever comes first. Booking as soon as possible is strongly recommended.

Indianapolis International Airport (IND) is approximately 12 miles, or about 15 minutes, from downtown Indianapolis.

Rideshare services, taxis, and rental cars are available at the airport terminal.

Race-Day Ready

Schedule & Logistics

Official activities begin Sunday afternoon, September 27, with pre-registered activities and the opening networking reception.

Keynotes, workshops, and breakout programming continue throughout Monday, September 28 and Tuesday, September 29.

Business casual attire is recommended for daytime sessions and the Expo. Comfortable footwear is encouraged.

Attendees will receive post-conference access to available speaker slide decks after the event.

Conference sessions will not be recorded.

Industry Connections

Expo & Sponsorships

Yes. The Expo Hall will feature manufacturers, distributors, service providers, and industry partners.

Dedicated exhibit hours will give attendees opportunities to discover products, explore equipment, and build valuable industry relationships.

Sponsorship opportunities and booth spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Contact Sheridan Hughes or visit the sponsorship portal to review remaining opportunities.

View sponsorship opportunities
Support Crew

Contact & Assistance

For registration questions, housing assistance, or general conference support, contact the Women in HVACR team.

info@womeninhvacr.org

Ready to Take Your Place on the Starting Grid?

Secure your conference registration and hotel room early so you're ready when the green flag drops in Indianapolis.