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2024 Nebraska Connection Conference & Smash Park Event Recap

Embassy Suites & Smash Park | La Vista, Nebraska

Wednesday, December 11, 2025

BLD Connection's Nebraska Connection Conference and Smash Park event delivered an unforgettable day of learning, connection, and fun in early December in La Vista, Nebraska. Industry professionals gathered for an inspiring combination of leadership and sales seminars, contractor workshops, and engaging networking opportunities, culminating in an exciting evening at Smash Park.

Seminars That Inspired and Empowered

Attendees delved into transformative leadership strategies with Zach Arend of Create Purpose LLC. Drawing from his unique background as a 2x saddle bronc riding champion turned leadership expert, Zach captivated the audience with two impactful sessions:

  • Saddle Up! A Modern Leadership Solution: Zach tackled workplace burnout and disengagement, introducing his Saddle Your Own Horse™ approach to unlock untapped potential and foster collaboration.
  • Leading in the Arena: Championing Yourself and Your Team: This session provided actionable coaching techniques to help managers empower their teams to excel in the real world.

On the sales side, Mike McDole of Firing Line LBM Consulting shared his 40+ years of expertise through two dynamic seminars:

  • Personalizing Every Interaction: Strategies to Stand Out in Sales: Mike offered actionable strategies to help sales professionals differentiate themselves and build stronger customer relationships.
  • Mastering Time Management for Sales Success: Attendees learned essential skills to better organize their time, maximize productivity, and achieve a healthier work-life balance.

 

Mini Contractor Workshops: A New Addition

This year, we introduced mini contractor workshops designed specifically for contractors, featuring a collection of 20-minute sessions led by vendors. These workshops showcased innovative products and services, with companies like BlueLinx, Absolute Distribution Inc., GAF, and Emser Tile/Laticrete hosting engaging presentations.

Keynote Speaker Kendall Gammon: “Minding Mindset”

Kendall Gammon, former Kansas City Chiefs long snapper and Pro Bowler, brought a deeply inspiring message to the Membership Luncheon. With heartfelt storytelling and personal insights, Kendall shared how emotional resilience and embracing change can drive professional success. His juggling skills added a lighthearted and memorable touch to an already compelling keynote.

Smash Park Networking Event

The day concluded with an energetic evening at Smash Park, where attendees enjoyed games, a delicious BBQ dinner, refreshing drinks, and plenty of laughs. Friendly competitions, interactive activities, and relaxed conversations made this the perfect setting to strengthen connections forged throughout the day.

Thank You to Our Sponsors and Supporters

A huge thank you to our sponsors, speakers, and contributors for making the Nebraska Connection Conference an incredible success. Your dedication and support help us continue building a thriving community in the lumber and building materials industry.

For more information on upcoming events, visit the BLD Connection Event Calendar

For general event questions, reach out to: Jodie Fleck, CMP (763) 595-4058 or jodie@bldconnection.org

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