Conventions, conferences and meetings can offer learning experiences, networking opportunities and great fun. They can also be exhausting. If you’re heading to Momentum, ELFA’s 64th Annual Conference, it can pay off to put those strategic planning skills to use and take some time to prepare.
Five ELFA members who’ve attended previous conventions share their veteran tips so that you can make the most of your time in Marco Island, Florida.
Craig Colling, Senior Vice President – Vendor Channel Leader, Ascentium Capital
Craig credits his participation in two annual conventions with helping him increase his involvement in the industry, including joining the Equipment Finance Cares board and becoming active with the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation. This year, he’s hoping to gain fresh perspectives on how the industry is evolving post-pandemic, especially around technology, AI, and vendor engagement.
Favorite memory from previous conventions: “A breakout session focused on innovation in vendor finance, which sparked a shift in how I approached program development and ultimately influenced how my company structures its vendor relationships.”
Top tips
- Be intentional with your networking. The consistent value in these conventions is in the relationships and insights shared. Don’t just meet people. Follow up and build relationships that last beyond the event.
- Attend sessions outside your comfort zone. Some of the best insights come from areas you don’t work in every day.
- Make time to reflect. At the end of each day, jot down key takeaways and how they might apply to your business. It helps turn inspiration into action.
Lisa Corby, Syndication Manager – Capital Markets, Verdant Commercial Capital, LLC
Lisa will be attending her third ELFA convention this year. She hopes to come away with stronger relationships built through meaningful conversations and shared experiences – with both familiar colleagues and new faces.
Favorite memory from previous conventions: “I’ve had the privilege of attending two ELFA Annual Conventions, 2023 in Phoenix and 2024 in Austin. Two standout experiences include the Community Service project with U.S. Hunger and the inspiring General Session where Oscar Munoz, former executive chairman of United Airlines, was interviewed by Leigh Lytle.”
Top tips
- Get involved early. Sunday’s activities, the golf and pickleball tournaments, and community service projects are all great ways to connect. Community service projects are especially rewarding, as the teamwork and shared purpose create a powerful sense of connection, and can lead to authentic, unguarded conversations.
- Attend the General Sessions. They provide valuable insights and inspiration. This year’s session with keynote speaker Jon Gordon, a leadership and culture expert, should be no exception.
- Stay for the Closing Reception and After Glow Party. It’s a chance to celebrate the accomplishments of ELFA, members and each other – all of whom drive our industry forward. Congratulate a peer, enjoy the moment, and toast to our continued momentum as we round out 2025 and enter 2026.
Kirsten Dargy, Marketing Manager, LTi Technology Solutions
Ready to attend her eighth consecutive ELFA convention, Kirsten is hoping to foster new professional connections, gain new strategic insights from industry thought leaders and bring new ideas back to her company and clients that will drive innovation and growth.
Favorite memory from previous conventions: “The greatest value is always the people. Connecting with peers, sharing insights, and building relationships that strengthen the industry is what makes the convention so impactful.”
Top tips
- Prioritize networking. Be intentional: attend receptions, join table discussions, introduce yourself to others.
- Engage in sessions. Go beyond just listening. Ask questions, share your perspective and capture ideas to bring back to your team.
- Plan, but stay flexible. Schedule key sessions, but leave room for spontaneous conversations and opportunities.
Miles Herman, Chairman and CEO, LEAF Commercial Capital, Inc.
To say Miles is a veteran ELFA conventioneer may be an understatement. He has attended every convention since 1995, with one exception for a hurricane. He’ll be there again this year, looking forward to meeting with people across the industry, hearing about their challenges and learning how they are handling them.
Favorite memory from previous conventions: “Beyond the great learning and information brought to us each year, I really enjoy getting together with my friends and former colleagues who are like my chosen families. One memory that stands out for me is saying good-bye to my fellow ELFA board members in 2017 with a ‘Hamilton’ musical rapping!”
Top tips
- Adopt a welcoming attitude. It’s important, especially if you see a first-time attendee.
- Remain inquisitive. Meet with the suppliers and learn what’s new.
- Provide feedback. Complete the survey after the convention with your input, recognizing that participants can drive the program going forward to address the industry’s needs.
Xiang Ji, Senior Business Strategy Consultant, Toyota Industries Commercial Finance
Favorite memory from previous conventions: “My favorite memory was to socialize with my Emerging Talent Advisory Council (ETAC) peers. It was a great feeling to see more emerging talent in the industry present at the Annual Convention.”
Top tips
- Participate in smaller events. If this is the first time you’re attending, visit the New Member and Women’s Council receptions on Sunday, where you can easily get to know others.
- Strike up conversations. Talk with people at the exhibition booths. There is always something new happening in the industry!
- Connect. Make a point to establish one or two new meaningful connections.
It’s almost time
All of the veteran convention attendees agree that the best part of the convention is the chance to connect, and reconnect, with colleagues. They echo the importance of connecting with peers who are navigating similar challenges. As Craig Colling sums up, those are the conversations that often lead to real, actionable ideas – and in some cases, long-term partnerships.