2026 EMDA Spring Meeting
Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa | April 9–12, 2026
Join us in beautiful Lahaina, Maui, for EMDA’s 2026 Spring Meeting, hosted at the stunning Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa. This unforgettable location offers the perfect blend of professional development, networking, and relaxation.
We are currently finalizing the agenda, but here’s a sneak peek at what to expect:
Thursday April 9th
1-6pm Optional Golf Outing – The Ka’anapali Kai Golf Course (There is a trolley you can ride to and from the golf course)
6-7pm Welcome Cocktail Party on the (Lawn) near here is Cliff diving ceremony sponsored by “Loftness.”
Friday April 10th
Before 9:15, Breakfast for Business Registrants only at the Coral Reef Restaurant
(Business Registrants must say EMDA and their name when arriving)
9:15- 9:45 In the Wailuku Ballroom we start with Department 210- “From Click to Conversation: Automating Website Responses and Lead Follow-Ups” improves engagement and efficiency by automatically responding to website searches, email link clicks, and lead inquiries using automation tools and integrated workflows
9:45- 11 am The Road to Growth: Lessons from Acquisitions and the Future of Ag”
A conversation with Matt Budde about his journey from acquiring Ford to Hamilton to JS Woodhouse, highlighting not only the wins but also the roadblocks and tough decisions along the way. Matt can share what these experiences taught him about resilience, strategy, and leadership, and offer his perspective on where the ag equipment industry is headed in the next decade.
12:00pm to 3:30 Join EMDA for a 3-hour Premier Snorkel aboard the Teralani Catamaran. Enjoy a chef-inspired lunch, then sail Maui’s west coast to top snorkel spots. Swim with sea turtles, tropical fish, and coral reefs—or relax on deck and soak up the views.
5:30- Luau – Open bar and buffet dinner. The evening begins with activities, followed by the show. EMDA has premier seating and will be seated together as a group.
Saturday April 10th
Before 9:15, Breakfast for Business Registrants only at the Coral Reef Restaurant
(Business Registrants must say EMDA and their name when arriving)
9:15-10:00 am In the Wailuku Ballroom Steve Sampson from Phil Patterson Presents A Practice Guide to the Agricultural Exemption
Break
10:15- 11:30 “Different Paths, Shared Challenges: Perspectives on Growth in the Shortline Ag Industry”
This panel brings together voices from across the distribution spectrum, reps and distributors, big and small, to explore how structure, scale, and strategy shape their experiences.
• LoneStar Sales and Marketing- Chance Massey
• Doran Distributing-Bob Doran
• General Implement – Mark Tibbits
11:30-6 Free to explore Hawaii
6 pm - 9 pm Closing Themed Dinner Celebration (All Registrants): “Aloha Attire Night” – Casual island elegance: Hawaiian shirts, mu?umu?us, leis, and flower crowns. Cocktail time (first 30 minutes) with voting for Best Dressed, followed by a 90-minute dinner reception with open bar (dinner begins at 6:30 PM). Between courses, President Kris will present awards: Manufacturer/Provider of the Year, Distributor/Rep of the Year, and Best Dressed.
