By SHAUNICA JAYSON, Vice President, American Boiler Manufacturers Association
The inaugural Emerging Leaders Forum took place April 8–9 at the Hilton Polaris in Columbus, Ohio, bringing together the “Boiler Industry Leaders of Tomorrow” (BILT) for two days of connection, learning, and growth.
With a strong focus on leadership development, networking, and deepening industry knowledge, attendees walked away with fresh insights and practical tools to bring back to their teams and workplaces.
ABMA’s 2025 Emerging Leaders Forum featured powerful keynote speakers, engaging peer roundtable discussions, a candid CEO Q&A session, hands-on interactive learning, and an exclusive tour of the National Board of Boiler & Pressure Vessel Inspectors’ facility — all designed to inspire and equip the next generation of boiler industry leaders.
Speakers included:
Brent Falcone, VP of People and Culture at WARE, presented as the Keynote Speaker at the Tuesday Opening General Session sponsored by WARE.
Dr. Rick Marks, RelateWell, presented a valuable session on “Leading with Emotional Intelligence” at the Wednesday Morning Session sponsored by Rentech.
Dr. John Hillen, Strategy & Leadership Expert, presented as the Closing Keynote Speaker at Wednesday Afternoon Session sponsored by AUTOFLAME and LAARS.
Other highlights:
Peer Roundtable Discussions
In our “What’s Keeping You Up at Night?” session, participants broke into small groups to dive into real-world challenges and hot topics submitted through a pre-event questionnaire.
Each group tackled key issues that are top of mind for their peers, fostering candid conversations and shared problem-solving. The session wrapped up with each group reporting out their key takeaways to the larger audience — sparking valuable insights, fresh perspectives, and a sense of shared experience across the industry.
National Board Facility Tours
Attendees had the unique opportunity to tour the National Board of Boiler & Pressure Vessel Inspectors’ state-of-the-art Boiler Testing Facility and Pressure Relief Laboratory. The experience included informative sessions that offered an inside look at the National Board’s mission, the critical role of inspectors, and the process behind new construction inspections.
After the tours, attendees enjoyed a relaxed and fun-filled BBQ, followed by some friendly competition in “Minute to Win It” team games — a great way to build connections and end the day on a high note.
CEO Q&A
Joel Amato, Executive Director at the National Board of Boiler & Pressure Vessel Inspectors, joined us for an engaging session titled “Insights on Career & Identifying Future Leaders.”
Participants had the unique opportunity to ask Joel candid questions about his own career path, leadership philosophy, and the qualities he looks for in the next generation of industry leaders. The conversation provided valuable insights into how emerging professionals can position themselves for growth, build credibility, and make a lasting impact within the boiler and manufacturing industry.
Networking Opportunities
It wouldn’t be an ABMA event without meaningful connection. The Emerging Leaders Forum created the perfect setting for attendees to build relationships, exchange ideas, and expand their professional networks.
For many, it was the first time meeting peers from across the industry — sparking conversations, collaborations, and connections that will last well beyond the event.
WIBI Coffee Social
Before the official start of the Forum, WIBI hosted a Coffee Social on Tuesday morning — bringing together women from across the boiler industry to connect, share experiences, and learn more about ABMA’s Women in the Boiler Industry professional group.
It was a great opportunity to foster community, spark new conversations, and highlight the importance of supporting and empowering women in the industry.
JOIN THE MOVEMENT!
Take an active role in shaping the future of the boiler industry. For more details about BILT and the Emerging Leaders Forum, contact Jordan Croson at [email protected].
Visit ABMA.COM/BILT for more!