NERC 2026: Connections, Insights, and Monumental Motivation
Posted by MarCom2526 on May. 1, 2026 / Blog / Subscribe 0
Attending the SMPS Northeast Regional Conference (NERC) 2026 in Washington, DC – my second NERC conference – was an energizing experience. I was determined to take full advantage of everything the event had to offer. I came home with far more than a notebook full of ideas, a colorful conference t-shirt, and handfuls of swag… I returned inspired, connected, and deeply grateful for the SMPS community.
Here are a few of the biggest takeaways from my time in DC.
Strengthening Chapter Connections
Before the conference even began, the buzz was already building within our chapter. Conversations about who was attending, arrival times, and can’t-miss sessions sparked connection well ahead of the event. Once onsite, sharing breakfasts, trading notes after educational sessions, and grabbing lunch together before the long train ride home created space to connect beyond our usual chapter interactions. We talked about everything—from travel adventures and family life to go-to karaoke songs. These moments strengthened existing relationships and helped cultivate new ones, reminding me how valuable it is to truly connect with my chapter outside of all of our committee meetings and educational events.
Expanding Regional Networks
NERC also pushed me to step outside my comfort zone. I took the advice to “sit with someone new” seriously. That simple suggestion proved incredibly rewarding.
I met a wide range of professionals from marketers who are brand new to the industry, to others who have been shaping it for 20+ years, to vendors and potential teaming partners. What struck me most was how easy it was to find common ground. Whether we were talking about building personal brands, navigating leadership growth, or balancing motherhood and marketing careers, I found genuine opportunities to connect. These conversations reinforced how powerful it is to build a network rooted in real relationships—not just exchanged business cards.
And of course, none of this happens without the incredible planners and volunteers. From welcoming attendees to their city to celebrating the behind-the-scenes efforts that make an event like NERC possible, their enthusiasm and dedication were felt everywhere. It inspired me to see how many people were part of the NERC planning process, and made me consider how I can contribute beyond my local chapter.
Between the welcome reception, CPSM breakfast, DC After Dark, and countless informal moments in between, it was amazing to see just how much a professional network can grow in only two days.
Inspiration Through Education
The educational programming at NERC 2026 was packed with value. Topics spanned AI, branding, strategic planning, website development, leadership, and more. The amount of shared knowledge—along with worksheets, resources, and downloads—was impressive. If you didn’t walk away with something useful, you must not have been paying attention.
A few standout sessions for me included:
- The AI Decoded: Building AEC Fluency for the Future pre-conference session, which helped spark new ideas for practical AI application and strategic implementation
- Skot Waldron’s keynote, which had the entire room signing along, and considering how pace empathy can help you work more collaboratively whether you are an adaptive or structured thinker
- JJ Nelson’s leadership presentation, where his AUTHENTICity truly shined and resonated deeply, inspiring me to bring more joy into my workplace
- Kayla McCause’s session, from Prompts to Power, which offered actionable takeaways that could be implemented immediately to change the way we work
The generosity of speakers willing to share their knowledge so openly reaffirmed what makes the SMPS community special.
Carrying the Momentum Forward
Perhaps the most valuable takeaway from NERC 2026 is the space it provided for reflection. I returned home with fresh perspective on how I want to continue growing in my career, contributing to my firm, and supporting our local SMPS Philadelphia chapter, and my SMPS community.
I’m incredibly grateful to my company for the opportunity to attend and to everyone who played a role in making this event so impactful. I walked away with truly monumental motivation—and I’m excited to carry that knowledge, inspiration, and energy forward.
Jaime Kacperowski, CPSM, WELL AP
Creative Marketing Director
SPIEZLE GROUP, INC.
Jaime Kacperowski, CPSM, WELL AP, Creative Marketing Director at Spiezle Group Inc., has over 20 years of experience in the AEC industry. She specializes in strategic communications, and brand development. An active member of the Society for Marketing Professional Services, Jaime is involved with the SMPS Philadelphia chapter, where she contributes to both the Membership and Virtual Programs committees.
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