2026 WCCE Annual Conference

Join us in Wenatchee June 3-5

2026 WCCE Annual Conference Agenda

Wenatchee Convention Center

Prices
Member: $400
Non-Member: $425
Exhibitor: $1000 | includes one event registration and a 6ft table with a linen.
Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Dru Garson for more information. We kindly ask sponsorship invoices are paid via check.
Cancellation and refund policy: Cancellations will be considered if notified in writing by May 1, 2026. We will accept registration transfers within your organization until June 1, 2026.

Wednesday, June 3
3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. | New CEO Welcome Networking Reception
 
3:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Registration and Exhibitor Check-In
 
4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Welcome Networking & Social
 
6:00 p.m. | Dinner on your own

Thursday, June 4
8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. | Registration & Breakfast

9:00 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. | Welcome from WCCE Board Chair
Speaker: Andy Mayer, President & CEO, Skagit Valley Chamber of Commerce

9:15 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. | Opening Keynote – Washington’s Economic Outlook: Navigating What Comes Next


Speaker | Anneliese Vance-Sherman, Chief Labor Economist, Washington State Employment Security Department

10:15 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. | Advocacy Panel Presentation

Speakers | Representatives from the Association of Washington Business, Washington Retail Association, and Washington Hospitality Association

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. | Networking Break

11:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Chambers and Their Role in Washington’s Economic Future

Speaker | Kris Johnson, President & CEO – Association of Washington Business

Washington’s economy is rapidly evolving, bringing new challenges in workforce, housing, energy, and affordability that are directly impacting local businesses and the chambers that serve them. At the same time, the environment that chamber leaders operate in has shifted significantly over the past few years—especially post-COVID—requiring greater adaptability, strategic leadership, and community engagement.

This session will explore key economic trends shaping the state and how chambers can respond in an increasingly complex environment. It will also highlight how the Association of Washington Business is advancing solutions through its WA2040 initiative and Solution Summits to address Washington’s most pressing economic challenges.

12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m. | Lunch Keynote – Three Roles to Grow Your Chamber

Speaker | Kyle Sexton, CEO, ChamberThink Strategies

Learn the three essential roles every growing chamber must have – and the order in which to develop them. This practical framework helps executives and staff who feel stretched or stuck. Walk away with clear action steps to boost membership, strengthen your team, and grow revenue.

1:15 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. | From Idea to Impact: Case Studies and Best Practices from Local Chambers

Speakers | Amy McGuffin, President & CEO, Kittitas Valley Chamber of Commerce and Janet Kenefsky, COO, Greater Vancouver Chamber

2:15 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Chamber Unscripted
Speakers | Kyle Sexton,
ChamberThink Strategies

An interactive, open Q&A format where attendees bring real challenges and get practical solutions. No slides or agenda – just focused on what your chamber needs. Highest rated breakout session at chamber conferences nationwide.

3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Chamber Exchange: Peer-to-Peer Problem Solving and Idea Lab
Moderator | Guy Occhiogrosso, President & CEO, Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce

5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Reception and Dinner at the Pybus Market (Address: 3 N Worthen St, Wenatchee, WA 98801)

Friday, June 5
8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. | Breakfast

9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. | Beyond Dues: How Chamber Leaders Are Building Diversified Revenue That Lasts
Speakers: John McDonagh, President & CEO, Greater Vancouver Chamber

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. | Membership Sales Training1000 Membership Sales Starts with 1
Speaker: Kyle Sexton, ChamberThink Strategies

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. | Closing Remarks and Prize Drawing (must be present to win)
Speaker: Dru Garson, Executive Director, WCCE



Presenting Sponsor

Partners


Lodging