Each spring, our chapters kick into high gear as employee owners, company leaders, trustees, and advisors come together to connect and learn from one another. From half-day seminars and workshops to conferences and roundtables, these local and regional events give ESOP member companies a chance to step away from the day-to-day and focus on the bigger picture—employee ownership.
This year’s spring programs are tackling the topics ESOP companies care about most. Attendees are diving into conversations around artificial intelligence, legislative and regulatory updates, fiduciary responsibilities, governance best practices, valuation trends, transaction planning, and repurchase obligation forecasting. At the same time, there’s strong focus on building ownership culture, strengthening communication, and increasing employee engagement. The goal is simple: make sure people walk away not just with information, but with practical ideas they can put to work right away.
The Florida Chapter Winter Conference brought that energy to Tampa on February 12th, welcoming attendees for a full day of timely insights and meaningful discussion. A highlight of the event was a visit from Jim Bonham, President and CEO of The ESOP Association, who joined as a special guest speaker and participated in the CFO/CEO Roundtable. Jim shared updates on the Association’s advocacy efforts and the evolving legislative and regulatory landscape in Washington, DC, offering a clear look at how federal developments are affecting ESOP companies across the country. Jim’s insights on what these changes mean for TEA members gave attendees a better perspective on how they can stay informed, engaged, and prepared.
This spring brings even more opportunities. The Minnesota/Dakotas Spring Conference & Roundtables will feature special guest the Honorable Tammy Miller, former Lieutenant Governor of North Dakota. She’ll share perspectives on leadership, economic development, and the key issues shaping the Upper Midwest. With experience in both public service and private enterprise, Miller brings a practical outlook on navigating change and positioning organizations for long-term success.
Meanwhile, the Northwest Chapter is heading to Boise for the first time. The Boise conference will include three concurrent session tracks—ESOP 101, technical sessions, and culture & communications—making it easy for attendees to tailor their experience. The new location is already generating excitement and is on track to draw record attendance.
Of course, while the educational sessions are always valuable, the real magic of chapter events often happens in between. Over coffee breaks, lunches, and receptions, member CEOs swap strategy ideas, CFOs and HR leaders compare notes, trustees talk through fiduciary challenges, and employee owners share what’s working in their companies. These informal, honest conversations are what truly strengthen our member network and remind everyone they’re part of something bigger.
Many chapters are investing in emerging leaders, offering sessions on financial literacy, ownership thinking, and leadership development that help the next generation of employee owners step confidently into larger roles. This focus on people keeps employee ownership strong for the long term while also connecting local members to national priorities. The insights shared at these gatherings inform broader conversations and reinforce a unified voice for employee‑owned companies.
As the year moves forward, now is a great time to stay involved, attend an upcoming event, and bring a colleague along. Each chapter gathering is a reminder that employee ownership isn’t just a business structure—it’s a community built on collaboration, shared learning, and shared success. Through education, connection, and a little spring momentum, that community continues to grow stronger.
For more information about the Spring Chapter events please visit the Events List Page.
