Always one of the most popular and thought-provoking events on the business aviation calendar, the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Leadership Conference will engage, inform and inspire leaders and professionals from across every facet of the industry to unlock their potential and that of their team members.
This transformative three-day gathering is designed to help attendees tap into the strengths of multigenerational teams, sharpen their communication skills and leave with practical tools to effectively advance their goals.
The NBAA Leadership Conference will take place Feb. 2-4, 2026, at the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort in San Antonio, Texas, bringing together several hundred current and future leaders from across the business aviation community.
This year’s theme, “From Potential to Performance: Unlocking the Best in Yourself and Your Team,” focuses on strengthening attendees’ leadership abilities, sparking new ideas, expanding their professional networks and enhancing their ability to harmoniously integrate work and life while resisting ‘burnout’ in what can be a highly demanding industry.
On the program schedule is an exciting lineup of six acclaimed keynote speakers who will offer their insights and perspectives on how to strike these vital balances in their careers and lives.
For example, business aviation veteran Stephanie Chung, best-selling author of Ally Leadership: How to Lead People Who Are Not Like You, will emphasize the importance of moving beyond past challenges and defeats to grow as both an industry professional and as a person.
“I’ve literally gone from baggage room to a boardroom in a span of 40 years, and I can tell you, I’ve learned a couple things along the way,” she said. “Some things I knocked out of the park; some things, I fell flat on my face. We’re going to talk about all of it at the Leadership Conference.”
“We’ll discuss how we create lives that not only look good on Instagram and LinkedIn, but that actually feel good,” added Erin Stafford, a recognized leader on burnout and sustainable peak performance. “Lives where we’re continuing to thrive at a level of peak performance, but we’re doing it in a way where we’re not ruining our health and our relationships.”
Former American Ninja Warrior and award-winning speaker Alex Weber will share with attendees how to “Unleash the Unstoppable You.” “This is going to be an incredible gathering,” Weber said. “I’m so excited to join you to lead beyond changes, lead beyond challenges and achieve the goals that matter most for you and for everyone who needs you. I cannot wait to see you in February in San Antonio.”
The NBAA Leadership Conference will also feature Paul Angone, author and creator of AllGroanUp.com; certified mental performance coach Dr. Cindra Kamphoff; and stand-up comedian David Rendall, who will all bring their unique perspectives and energy to the event.
The event will kick off with a welcome session featuring NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen, who will share updates on the latest trends, challenges and opportunities shaping the future of business aviation.
Beyond the stage, learning continues through collaboration and shared experiences. Connect with hundreds of business aviation professionals during exclusive networking opportunities, including two evening receptions, daily lunches, dedicated networking breaks and a final toast to leadership to close out the event.
Bookending the conference will be two optional NBAA Professional Development Program courses. On Monday, Feb. 2, Future-Ready Leadership – New Strategies for Leading the Evolving Workforce will offer current and emerging leaders tools to sharpen their ability to lead in the face of today’s shifting workforce dynamics.
Following the conference on Thursday, Feb. 5, the session Understanding Culture, Total Rewards and Compensation will feature an intensive one-day deep dive designed to equip business aviation leaders with the essential strategies for building a thriving workplace. The course will examine the five components of total rewards for employees: compensation, benefits, well-being, development and recognition.
Learn more and register for the NBAA Leadership Conference.
“The Leadership Conference? Inspiring. Practical. And honestly, a reminder that we are all still learning, no matter how many years we’ve been in the game. I have spent the last two decades in private wealth management, helping executives and families during life transitions, including first-time aircraft purchases. NBAA has helped me bring that work into a space I genuinely love.”
– Gregory M. Chapman, CPWA CEPAM Morgan Stanley
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