Tuesday, July 15
As of 6/17/25. Subject to change.
Keynote
8:30 a.m – 9:30 a.m.
How to Identify Emerging Leaders
Location: Capri Ballroom
Speaker: Jim Schiffler
Description: Jim is the retired president of North Central Bus & Equipment (Blue Bird dealer in MN & SD) and Sunburst Transit (student transportation contractor). He is a champion of organizational culture, having created an atmosphere where individuals feel safe, respected, valued and know, “they are making a difference”. His new book, “Stepping Up: from valued employee to supervisor” is making a difference in the lives of aspiring leaders who are listening to their inner voice saying, “I’m not good enough” and are afraid to step up into a supervisory role. He will help you identify and qualify your next generation of leaders.
Trade Show
10 a.m – 1:30 p.m.
Trade Show + Lunch
Location: Tuscany Ballroom
Description: Over 1,000 school transportation professionals will attend the STN EXPO Trade Show, including manufacturers, OEMs and suppliers offering new and existing products, solutions and services that help transporters perform their jobs better and more efficiently. These exhibiting companies will connect with professionals who transport children of all ages, sizes and distinctions, and who prepare specifications for products and services, make final decisions on purchases, and are responsible for recommending purchases.
General Session
2:00 p.m – 4:00 p.m.
General Session: Bet on Yourself & Bet on Your Team!
Location: Naples 6 & 7
Speakers: Nicole Portee, Teresa Fleming & Quanika Dukes-Spruill
Description: Discovering the leader in you is the first step to transforming how you show up—for your team, your organization, and yourself. This energizing, two-part session is rooted in the belief that professional development grows people, and leadership grows organizations. Inspired by the Parable of the Talents, we’ll explore how to maximize what’s in your hands your capacity, your experience, your exposure, your excitement, and your experimentation.
We shift from the self to the team, exploring how to equip, develop, and empower others using real tools and strategies. You’ll learn how to set expectations, build a pipeline, and stop doing it all yourself—because betting on your team is how the real ride begins.
Led by three senior executive operational district leaders, this interactive experience includes roundtable discussions and a high-impact networking activity that will help you assess your leadership style, strengthen your ability to serve others. You’ll leave with practical tools and actionable strategies that will stretch your leadership and help you build high-capacity teams—ready to face whatever comes next.
Come ready to reflect, connect, and bet on yourself because your leadership journey starts with you.