We’re just a few weeks away from the 2025 IECA Annual Conference & Expo, and I couldn’t be more excited to welcome you all to Richmond, Virginia! Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a conference veteran, this year’s event is shaping up to be one of the best yet.
One of the biggest takeaways from a recent interview I did (linked here) is how important it is to get involved to truly make the most of your conference experience. It’s just like starting college—don’t sit in your room, get out there, meet people, and engage!
Last year, we introduced a special initiative where we took young professionals onto the expo floor to help them connect with vendors and industry leaders. It can be intimidating to start conversations, but the reality is, some of the smartest people in the industry are in sales—they’ve seen it all, worked with countless projects, and have insights that can save you hours of research. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to level up your career, talking to the professionals in our network is one of the best ways to learn.
Beyond learning, this conference is about connecting with the IECA community—sharing experiences, trading insights, and having a great time with like-minded professionals passionate about protecting our natural resources. It’s about being part of something bigger—an industry that makes a difference.
And let’s not forget Richmond—a city rich in history, culture, and, most importantly, great food! Whether you’re exploring the James River, checking out the local breweries, or catching up with colleagues at one of our networking events, there’s plenty to enjoy.
I hope you will join us for an incredible experience! I look forward to seeing you in Richmond and making this conference one to remember.
See you there!
Jerry Sanders
P.S. Here's a short clip of my interview.
View the full interview here.