Announcing the Keynote Speakers for the 2026 GBA Annual Conference
GBA is excited to introduce the keynote speakers for the 2026 Annual Conference, taking place April 23-25 in Phoenix, Arizona. The event celebrates “Geoprofessional Vibrancy, Impact, and Professionalism,” and invites industry leaders to explore how collaboration, innovation, and excellence are thriving and shaping the future of the geoprofessions.
Jim Weber – “Business is a Marathon: Leading with Agilty, Purpose, and Pushing Through ‘The Wall’”
Entrepreneurial CEO Jim Weber, renowned for steering Brooks Running Company’s remarkable turnaround, will share his formula for building a billion-dollar global brand on Friday, April 24. Jim’s keynote will explore the parallels between business and marathon running, emphasizing vision, endurance, and the ability to overcome challenges.
Drawing from his experience leading Brooks through market disruption and personal adversity, Jim will offer powerful takeaways on purpose-driven leadership, innovation, and cultivating customer obsession.
What you’ll learn:
• Leading with purpose and driving innovation
• Building trusting workplace cultures
• Adapting to change and disruption for long-term success
Brittany Hodak – “Creating Superfans: How to Turn Customers into Enthusiastic Advocates”
Award-winning entrepreneur and customer experience expert Brittany Hodak will deliver a high-energy keynote designed to inspire attendees at every level on Saturday, April 25.
As the author of Creating Superfans, Brittany has helped thousands of organizations transform customer apathy into advocacy using her proven SUPER Model™ framework. Her session will reveal why every team member is part of the “Experience Department” and provide actionable strategies for attracting and retaining superfan customers.
What you’ll learn:
• Why the best marketing doesn’t cost anything
• How to elevate ordinary customer moments into extraordinary ones
• The critical role superfans play in business success now and in the future
Geoprofessional Vibrancy, Impact, and Professionalism – Register on October 13
The 2026 Annual Conference will empower attendees to champion vibrancy in our industry, drive innovation and resilience in your firms, and advance professionalism. The keynote speakers are part of a packed agenda with sessions and networking opportunities that focus on fostering collaboration, amplifying your impact, and promoting transformative leadership.
Registration for the conference opens Monday, October 13. Join us in Phoenix to connect with other industry leaders, gain actionable insights, and help shape the future of the geoprofessions.