Location: Pueblo II

Get a head start on the event and meet and mingle with new and old industry professionals at this laid-back social hour. Grab a beverage (on us!) and settle in before we kick off the opening dinner and keynote afterward.

Location: Bennie’s Courtyard

Join us for a delicious dinner and inspiring Keynote Speaker Commander Kirk Lippold — as we officially kick off SBFX 2025!

Keynote: Pillars of Leadership Commander Kirk Lippold was U.S. Navy commanding officer of the USS Cole when it came under a suicide terrorist attack by al Qaeda in the port of Aden, Yemen, in October 2000. During his service, he and his crew distinguished themselves by saving the American war ship from sinking. This event is thought of as one of the most brazen acts of terrorism by al Qaeda prior to September 11, 2001. At a time when everything we’ve come to know is being reshaped, Commander Lippold reveals how to lead teams and manage challenges successfully in the face of financial, national security, and global uncertainties. His talk will offer strategies to instill integrity into  team members and mitigate crises. With takeaways on assessing successes and failures to prepare for what the future may hold, his lessons can make the difference when it matters most.

Location: Apache Ballroom

Emcee:
George Brennan, School Bus Fleet/Bobit Business Media

Keynote Speaker:
Kirk Lippold, United States Navy (Ret.)

Join us for Cigars & Cordials to wrap up our first day!

Location: Bennie’s Courtyard