Home to the 2025 SC&RA Annual Conference is the famous Arizona Biltmore hotel. Photo: USA Today Network via Reuters Connect

The Specialized Carriers & Rigging Association (SC&RA) Annual Conference runs from April 21 to 24, promising a can鈥檛-miss experience for professionals across the industry. Hosted at the 鈥淛ewel of the Desert,鈥� the luxurious Arizona Biltmore, this year鈥檚 conference builds on SC&RA鈥檚 legacy of record-breaking attendance and enhanced programming, ensuring valuable networking opportunities, forward-looking education sessions and meaningful recognition of industry achievements.

With 88 exhibitors in the Exhibit Center, sessions featuring leading experts and streamlined scheduling designed to maximize engagement, the 2025 Annual Conference is poised to deliver fresh insights and critical business strategies to attendees while offering unparalleled opportunities to connect with peers.

SC&RA continues to prioritize members鈥� time with a carefully crafted schedule for 2025. Key changes for this year include: An open evening designed to maximize networking opportunities, the annual golf tournament moved to Wednesday to allow for flexibility in scheduling, the SC&RF Fundraiser scheduled for Thursday night, and adjusted committee meeting times to accommodate next-gen members and longer-term strategic planning.

By reducing the time and expense required for full participation, SC&RA ensures the Annual Conference continues to deliver value to its members.

At a glance

Attendees will gain invaluable knowledge from this year鈥檚 thought-provoking speakers and extracurriculars. Here鈥檚 a detailed preview of what attendees can look forward to:

Tuesday, April 22

1:00 PM 鈥� 2:30 PM: Mark Halperin 鈥� Post-Election Political and Economic Landscape. Veteran journalist Mark Halperin, who has covered every U.S. national election since 1988, will provide a deep dive into the post-election political landscape. Gain critical insights into policy implications and economic trends that will shape the business climate in 2025.

2:45 PM 鈥� 4:15 PM: Insurance Educational 鈥� Contracts & Cameras: Protect Your Rights and Cover Your Risks. This panel tackles two major challenges in the industry: managing contracts and utilizing cameras effectively. Learn how to navigate Master Service Agreements (MSAs) and understand how camera technology can provide a robust defense in accident cases.Panelists include: Chris Mikolay, Senior Vice President at National Interstate Insurance Company, Bill Smith, executive vice president Ccaims and risk management, NBIS/DUAL, Don Goebel, chief legal officer and chief tax officer, Maxim Crane Works and Tom Bennington, president, Duncan Machinery Movers.

Educational sessions abound at the Annual Conference. Photo: SC&RA

Wednesday, April 23

7:30 AM 鈥� 8:45 AM: Link-Belt Breakfast 鈥� From the Ring to the Rainforest. Justin Wren shares his incredible journey from UFC fame to overcoming addiction and finding redemption. Learn how personal accountability and resilience can ignite meaningful change both in business and in life.

1:00 PM 鈥� 2:00 PM: Colonel Martha McSally, USAF (Retired) 鈥� Dare to Fly. Retired Colonel Martha McSally will inspire attendees with her strategies for overcoming adversity and achieving greatness. Her focus on resilience, confidence, and leadership is a must-hear for anyone looking to push boundaries.

2:15 PM 鈥� 3:15 PM: Lee and Terry Resnick 鈥� Succession Planning & Navigating the Upcoming Tax Law. With upcoming changes to federal estate tax laws, Lee and Terry Resnick will walk attendees through the critical steps of business succession planning. Learn how to coordinate estate plans, avoid tax liabilities and secure your company鈥檚 future.

3:15 PM 鈥� 5:00 PM: A Tasting with the Mezcal Maven. Dive into the complexities of mezcal, a smoky and evocative agave-based liquor, during this curated tasting experience. Uncover unique pairings and the cultural story behind this trend-setting spirit.

3:30 PM 鈥� 5:00 PM: Historic tour of the Arizona Biltmore. Discover the rich history and timeless elegance of the Arizona Biltmore, a masterpiece of Frank Lloyd Wright-influenced architecture. This exclusive tour explores the hotel鈥檚 golden age glamour and meticulous restoration.

Thursday, April 24

7:30 AM 鈥� 8:45 AM: Leon Logothetis 鈥� Kindness Changes Everything. Bestselling author and TV host Leon Logothetis will close out the conference with an inspiring session on empathy, vulnerability, and leading with kindness. Learn how to reset company culture, reduce stress, and unlock the full potential of your team by uplifting others.

These sessions promise a balance of practical knowledge, inspiration and opportunities to build lasting connections.

The ever-popular Exhibit Center has 88 exhibitors for the 2025 event. Photo: SC&RA

Exhibit Center

One of the most anticipated features of the Annual Conference is its Exhibit Center. This year, 88 booths will showcase the latest innovations in equipment, technology and services for the industry. It鈥檚 a one-stop shop to explore new partnerships, discover cutting-edge solutions and gain insights into the products that are shaping the future.

With networking built into the schedule and attendees from across the globe, the conference provides countless opportunities to expand professional connections.

Recognizing excellence

SC&RA Job of the Year trophies lined up for the lucky winners. Photo: SC&RA

The SC&RA Annual Conference is also a time to celebrate the achievements of its members. The iconic Job of the Year competition showcases some of the industry鈥檚 most challenging and impressive projects, celebrating innovation and expertise. In addition, the Safety Awards recognize members who have set new standards in safety, a cornerstone of the industry.

Attendees will leave inspired by the stories of hard work, ingenuity, and dedication that these awards represent.

The SC&RF鈥檚 Viva Las Vegas fundraiser is the centerpiece of Thursday evening. More than just a fun night, the event raises essential funds for SC&RF workforce development programs, which provide scholarships, training opportunities and resources to build the next generation of industry leaders.

Whether you鈥檙e an SC&RA veteran or attending for the first time, the Annual Conference promises to be a transformative event for your business and career. For the latest information, including schedules, exhibitor lists and registration, visit