Structural Engineering Executive Retreat 2026

Big decisions deserve a better view.

How often do you step away from the day-to-day to see the bigger picture for your firm? The 2026 Structural Engineering Executive Retreat is your chance to do just that—gaining expert insights, forging powerful connections, and exploring forward-thinking strategies to future-proof your business.

📅 March 18–20, 2026
📍Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa
🌴Amelia Island, Florida

Speakers | Agenda | Location | Who Attends? | Pricing | Event Photos | Sponsors

The Structural Engineering Executive Retreat is a one-of-a-kind event that offers a unique perspective on your firm’s success, transforming challenges into opportunities. Designed to inspire both current and emerging leaders, the retreat features expert presentations and roundtable discussions for valuable learning through formal insights and open dialogue. Key topics include:

Leadership Elevation: Gain insights from top executives to refine your leadership approach.
Firm Strategy: Develop actionable strategies to overcome firm challenges and achieve growth.
Vision Development: Collaborate with leaders to shape a long-term vision for success.
Networking: Forge connections with peers and build lasting partnerships.

2026 Executive Retreat Speakers

Bryce Gill
Economist & National Speaker
First Trust

Dean West
Founder & President
Association Laboratory, Inc.

Michael Gryniuk, PE
Founder & Principal
CORA Structural

Ron Klemencic, P.E., S.E., Hon. AIA, NAE
Chairman & CEO
Magnusson Klemencic Associates

Stacy Bartoletti, PE, SE
CEO & Chair of the Board
Degenkolb Engineers

Winslow Johnson
SVP of Talent & Organizational Development
STV

2026 Executive Retreat Agenda

Day 1 – Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Day 2 – Thursday, March 19, 2026

7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.
Networking Breakfast
Begin the morning with breakfast and conversation.

8:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.
State of the Structural Engineering Profession
This executive briefing delivers a comprehensive snapshot of the structural engineering profession based on NCSEA’s research and survey data. Drawing on strategic planning research, firm leader focus groups, and industry benchmarking studies, the session presents a well-sourced set of insights into today’s market conditions and what lies ahead. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how these trends may impact their firms and leadership decisions.
Speaker: Dean West, FASAE, Founder & President, Association Laboratory, Inc.

9:15 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Break

9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Professional Liability Insurance Requirements – How to Tame Increasing Demands
This session will focus on the rapidly increasing requirements for higher professional liability insurance coverage being imposed by more and more clients. The session will begin with several firm leaders sharing experiences, challenges, and lessons learned. Participants will then break into peer groups organized by similarly sized firms to consider and discuss possible profession-wide responses to ever-increasing insurance requirements. Groups will come together to share key points and will work toward a collective action plan.
Moderator: Ron Klemencic, P.E., S.E., Hon AIA, Magnusson Klemencic Associates Speakers: Michael Gryniuk, PE, Founder & Principal, CORA Structural, and Stacy Bartoletti, PE, SE, CEO & Chair of the Board, Degenkolb Engineers

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Lunch

1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
Economic Trends: Volatility Has Arrived
The Federal Reserve continues to struggle to return inflation to its long-term target of 2%, as shifts in global supply chains and U.S. trade policy drive more production back to domestic markets. While increased U.S. self-sufficiency is reshaping the economy, it also points to a higher baseline level of inflation as globalization continues to unwind.

At the same time, the U.S. economy remains resilient despite signs of a slowing labor market. Changes in immigration policy, the growing influence of AI, and demographic shifts toward a more retiree-driven consumer base are reshaping demand and workforce dynamics. Elevated capital spending is expected to support continued economic growth into 2026.

This session examines the economic outlook for 2026 and its practical implications for firm leadership, including staffing, backlog, and strategic decision-making.
Speaker: Bryce Gill, Economist, First Trust

1:45 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.
Break

2:15 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Leadership Roundtable: A Peer Exchange
These peer roundtable discussions build on insights gathered through NCSEA’s pre-retreat Natter discussions with structural engineering firm leaders. Participants will engage in facilitated conversations focused on priority topics emerging from those discussions, with attendees grouped by firm size to support relevant, candid exchange.

Discussion topics may include:
• Workforce and talent pressures
• Economic and market outlooks
• Risk management and professional liability considerations
• AI and emerging technology impacts on practice
• Firm strategy and positioning through changing cycles

4:00 p.m.
Adjourn

6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Dinner
Enjoy dinner at the Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa. Thank you to Atlas Tube for sponsoring this event!

Day 3 – Friday, March 20, 2026

7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.
Networking Breakfast
Begin the morning with breakfast and conversation.

8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Epigenetic Leadership: The Science Behind Behaviors that Unlock Talent
This session offers a forward-thinking, science-based lens on how leadership behaviors shape talent performance and organizational culture over time. It explores the underlying drivers of behavior — the “why” behind how people respond to leadership — and how leaders can intentionally create conditions that support growth, independence, and confidence.
Speaker: Winslow Johnson, SVP of Talent and Organizational Development, STV

10:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.
Break

10:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Leadership Roundtable: A Peer Exchange
These peer roundtable discussions build on insights gathered through NCSEA’s pre-retreat Natter discussions with structural engineering firm leaders. Participants will engage in facilitated conversations focused on priority topics emerging from those discussions, with attendees grouped by firm size to support relevant, candid exchange.

12:00 p.m.
Adjourn

Agenda subject to change.

The Perfect Setting for Clarity

More than just an oceanfront escape, this retreat’s location offers a distinctive environment for creative thinking, innovation, and renewal. It’s an ideal space for executives to recharge, step away from daily demands, and find fresh perspectives. The calming rhythm of the Atlantic invites reflection, while the natural beauty of Amelia Island inspires new ideas and collaborative breakthroughs.

Held at the luxurious Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa, attendees will enjoy top-tier amenities that blend comfort and inspiration. With access to a world-class spa, gourmet coastal dining, and breathtaking ocean views, the venue sets the perfect stage for both business and leisure. Enjoy downtime with activities such as golf on championship courses, kayaking through scenic marshlands, or simply relaxing along miles of pristine shoreline—ensuring an unforgettable and enriching experience.

Reserving Your Stay

The Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa is the headquarters for the Executive Retreat; all events will take place here. Rooms start at $379 + taxes and fees.

NCSEA will manage all hotel reservations for the Executive Retreat. To secure your room, please complete your registration. NCSEA will connect with you once you’re registered, and closer to the retreat date, you’ll receive a personalized confirmation tailored to your experience. Relax and look forward to your time at the retreat—everything is planned so you can focus entirely on connecting, learning, and enjoying Amelia Island’s stunning surroundings.

Please note: The hotel registration deadline is February 13.

Where Structural Engineering’s Decision-Makers Meet

Last year’s Executive Retreat brought together the leaders shaping the future of structural engineering. Here’s who joined us in Napa Valley:

12 Presidents

27 Principals

5 Vice Presidents

12 Directors

53 Firms Represented

29 States Represented

Pricing

Member	$1,495
Non-Member	$1,895
Speaker	$750

Please note: The hotel registration deadline is February 13.

Photos from the 2025 Retreat

Thank You to Our Sponsors!

Share & Connect

This event invites attendees to share insights and information about their firms, helping you network with like-minded professionals and explore fresh perspectives. Don’t miss this chance to build relationships and expand your professional network.