Meeting Information

    2026 Midwest Executive Conference & Roundtable

    September 01, 2026 1:00 PM to September 02, 2026 5:00 PM
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    Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
    1721 W Canal St, Milwaukee, WI 53233
    Milwaukee, WI 53233
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    WATS is expanding its Annual Conference and opening it to laundry operators and supplier partners throughout the Midwest, for two days of education, networking and industry discussion. Don't miss this opportunity to gain fresh insights, expand your professional network, and engage with fellow industry leaders who are helping shape the future of the industry across the Midwest.

    Tuesday - September 1
    Session
    1:30 - 3:30 pm

    Midwest Executive Roundtable

    Hosted by WATS
    Operator Only

    Industry Leadership Roundtable: Navigating Today's Challenges and Opportunities
    Facilitated by Nikki Golden, CAE, Managing Director, Association Laboratory

    Join industry leaders for a discussion on the most pressing challenges and opportunities shaping the textile services industry today. This session will explore issues common across Midwest markets, including operational efficiencies, workforce concerns, competitive pressures, and emerging industry threats. Attendees will gain valuable insights and practical strategies to help their organizations navigate change, improve performance, and remain competitive in an evolving business environment.
    3:30 - 5:00 pm Registration Opens
    5:00 - 6:00 pm Cocktail Reception

    Join fellow attendees for an evening of networking, conversation, and connection as we kick off the conference in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
    6:00 pm Dinner & Auction

    Enjoy an evening of great food, friendly competition, and exciting auction packages during the 2026 Midwest Executive Conference & Roundtable Dinner & Auction. From unique items and experiences to celebrating the strength of the textile services industry, this signature event offers a fun and engaging way to support WATS while enjoying the conference experience.

    Wednesday - September 2
    Session
    7:00 - 8:00 am Breakfast
    8:00 - 9:00 am Welcome Remarks & Opening Session
    AI and the Future of Business: Opportunities, Challenges and Competitive Advantage
    Carmella Cadusale 

    Artificial intelligence is reshaping the business landscape, transforming how organizations operate, engage customers, and make strategic decisions. This session will explore the practical impact of AI on business, with a focus on how leaders can leverage it to improve productivity, strengthen marketing and sales efforts, enhance customer experiences, and drive innovation.

    Attendees will gain insights into emerging trends, real-world applications, and key considerations for responsibly integrating AI into their organizations to create lasting competitive advantage.
    9:00 - 9:15 am Networking Break
    9:15 - 10:15 am

    Disaster Planning: Preparing Before Disaster Strikes and Recovering After the Event

    Disasters can strike without warning, threatening employees, facilities, equipment, and operations. This session will provide practical strategies for preparing for and recovering from events such as fires, flooding, severe weather, and facility damage.

    Attendees will learn how to assess risks, strengthen business continuity plans, establish effective response procedures, and minimize operational disruptions. Through real-world examples and actionable guidance, participants will gain tools to improve organizational resilience and recovery when the unexpected occurs.

    Participants will learn how to:

    • Develop and maintain an effective disaster preparedness plan
    • Conduct risk assessments and identify operational vulnerabilities
    • Implement business continuity and disaster recovery strategies
    • Prepare for and respond to facility fires, flooding, and severe weather events
    • Manage crisis communications during and after an emergency
    • Reduce downtime and operational disruptions following a disaster
    • Strengthen organizational resilience and improve long-term recovery outcomes
    10:15 - 10:30 am Networking Break
    10:30 - 11:30 am Achieving Your Personal Best
    Bonnie Blair, Most Decorated Female Olympian Speed Skater

    Olympic legend Bonnie Blair shares the mindset and principles that helped her become one of the most decorated athletes in Winter Olympics history. Drawing from her experiences as a five-time Olympic gold medalist, Bonnie will explore the power of goal setting, perseverance, preparation, and maintaining focus under pressure.

    Through inspiring personal stories and practical insights, attendees will learn how to overcome obstacles, embrace change, and unlock their full potential. This motivating keynote will leave audiences energized and equipped with strategies to achieve their personal best, both professionally and personally.
    2:00 pm

    Golf Outing

    New Berlin Golf Club
    9 Hole Tournament
    All Levels Welcome

    Golf is an add-on for registration, includes box lunch

    Join fellow attendees for an enjoyable afternoon at New Berlin Hills Golf Course, a perfect setting for networking, relationship building, and friendly competition. Whether you're an avid golfer or simply looking to connect with industry colleagues outside the meeting room, this outing provides a relaxed and engaging environment to strengthen connections while enjoying a great day on the course.

    Hotel Reservations

    Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
    1721 W Canal St, Milwaukee, WI 53233

    Location/Airport
    The Potawatomi Hotel & Casino is located about 9 miles from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE).

    Tickets

    $695.00 Member Conference Only

    $695.00 Non-Member Operator Conference Only

    $770.00 Member Conference & Golf

    $770.00 Non-Member Operator Conference & Golf

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