The Value of Attending SMPS NERC 2026
Posted by Website Director on Feb. 15, 2026 / Subscribe 0
This year will be my third time attending the SMPS Northeast Regional Conference (NERC), and each year I’ve walked away with something different - new ideas, new connections, and a renewed sense of energy for the work we do in AEC marketing and business development. If you’ve ever wondered whether NERC is worth attending, I can confidently say that it’s one of the most valuable professional development opportunities available through SMPS.
Your Gateway to the SMPS Conference Experience
If you’ve never attended an SMPS conference, NERC is the perfect starting point. It’s smaller and more intimate than a national conference, but packed with high-impact learning, networking, and career development opportunities. Whether you’re new to SMPS or a seasoned member, NERC provides an approachable space to connect with peers, immerse yourself in industry trends, and build deeper relationships across the AEC community.
Why NERC Is Especially Valuable for SMPS Philly Members
NERC offers a unique opportunity to connect with professionals who understand the regional market and the challenges we face. You’ll see familiar faces from local events, meet peers from neighboring chapters, and build relationships that often continue through future SMPS programs and collaborations. SMPS Philly organizes a chapter meetup at NERC each year to give our Philly network time to connect outside of the usual local events. This year’s NERC is especially convenient as Washington, DC is just a short train ride away.
What You’ll Experience at NERC
SMPS NERC 2026 is designed to help you grow your success, your team, and your impact in A/E/C marketing. With 25+ workshops, panels, and breakout sessions, you’ll have the freedom to customize your conference experience — whether you’re diving deep into strategy, experimenting with new tools, or discovering the trends shaping our industry. Beyond the sessions, attendees can also enjoy a variety of optional special events — from the Moonlight Monuments Tour and Museum Meet Up to DC Dinearounds and Sightseeing — offering even more ways to network and explore Washington, DC.
Flexible Ways to Participate
Even if your schedule doesn’t allow for full conference attendance, there are still several ways to experience the energy of NERC. Single-day registration options let you attend on the day that best fits your schedule. The pre-conference learning labs provide focused, in-depth skill development in a shorter timeframe. Each day offers networking events and receptions for opportunities to connect with peers.
How One Conversation Can Open New Opportunities
Last year, I experienced one of the reasons why networking at NERC can be so meaningful. I struck up a conversation with this year’s conference president over breakfast, that ultimately led to me becoming Co-Chair of the 2026 NERC Communications Committee. Experiences like this are a great reminder that informal conversations often open doors you don’t expect but prove to be so valuable.
Register Now for SMPS NERC 2026
Don't wait! Register today to join us in Washington, DC, and experience firsthand the learning, connections, and opportunities that make NERC such an impactful event for our SMPS community.
Nicole Healy, CPSM
Senior Marketing Coordinator, Carollo Engineers
MarCom Director, SMPS Philadelphia
Communications Co-Chair, SMPS NERC
Nicole is a marketing professional with 15 years of experience in proposal strategy and pursuit leadership with a focus on water and infrastructure projects. She serves as Co-Chair of the 2026 SMPS NERC Communications Committee and was recently appointed as MarCom Director for SMPS Philadelphia. Nicole is also active in community leadership serving as President of her civic association, the Wissahickon Interested Citizens Association, for the past five years.
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