Speakers
Alex Chausovsky
Director of Analytics and Consulting
Bundy Group
Bio
Alex Chausovsky is the Director of Analytics and Consulting for the Bundy Group. He is a highly experienced market researcher and analyst with more than two decades of expertise across subjects including economics, manufacturing, automation, advanced technology trends, and business cycle analysis. He has consulted and advised companies throughout the US and Canada, Europe, South America, and Asia. In his investment banking advisory role, Alex is a trusted source of information for owners and executives of privately held firms who are seeking a business sale, acquisition, or financing. Alex has delivered over a thousand presentations, webinars, and workshops to small businesses, trade associations, and Fortune 500 companies across a spectrum of industries, and is the go-to source of industry data and insights for business owners and leaders. Alex's analysis has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, on the BBC, and on NPR, and he is a Top Voice on LinkedIn.
Keynote: Economic and Policy Update
Tuesday, October 21 | 8:35 am - 9:45 am
Back by Popular Demand – A Fresh Perspective on Today’s Economy - We’re excited to welcome back a highly acclaimed speaker from last year’s convention, now returning with updated insights and a renewed focus on the economic shifts shaping our industry. This year’s program will feature two dynamic sessions designed to inform, engage, and equip you with the tools to navigate an evolving marketplace. Join us for a data-driven, forward-looking analysis of the current economic landscape. This session will break down key indicators—like tariffs, inflation trends, interest rate expectations, labor market dynamics, consumer behavior, and business investment patterns—and provide clear, actionable guidance on how businesses can adapt to and prepare for ongoing economic developments.
Roundtable Discussion: From Insight to Action: Navigating What’s Next
Tuesday, October 21 | 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Following the keynote, continue the conversation in an interactive roundtable led by Alex Chausovsky. This session will explore the real-world implications of the economic trends discussed earlier and offer practical strategies for staying agile and resilient in a rapidly changing environment. Bring your questions and insights for what promises to be a lively, solutions-focused discussion.
Greg Kihlström
Principal
The Agile Brand
Bio
Greg Kihlström is a best-selling author, speaker, and entrepreneur, and serves as an advisor and consultant to top companies on marketing technology, marketing operations, and digital transformation initiatives.
Partnering with AI for Success - What Executives Need to Know About What AI Can (and Can’t) Do to Help Businesses Grow and Compete
Wednesday, October 22 | 9:00 am – 10:00 am
While there is much hype about what artificial intelligence can do, and many stories about missteps, the reality is that AI has tremendous potential to help businesses grow, scale, and improve both customer and employee relationships when harnessed correctly. Businesses that succeed will understand how to augment human capabilities while not replacing what makes customers loyal and employees engaged. This session will cut through the hype to deliver what the C-suite can do to create a partnership between AI and humans that builds efficiencies, strengthens customer relationships, empowers employees, and scales the capabilities of the organization.
Clint Paskewitz, CRA
Commercial Risk Director
Associated Insurance Services
Unveiling the PEAK360 Risk Management Process
Wednesday, October 22 | 11:10 am – 12:00 pm
Join us for an engaging session where Clint Paskewitz will share insights into the innovative PEAK360 Risk Management Process. This dynamic framework is designed to identify, assess, and mitigate risks effectively, empowering organizations to navigate uncertainties with confidence. In this session, you’ll discover:
- The core principles behind the PEAK360 approach
- Practical strategies for implementing robust risk management
- Real-world applications to enhance decision-making and resilience
Perfect for leaders, managers, and professionals seeking to strengthen their risk management strategies, this talk will provide actionable takeaways to adapt to your unique challenges. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an expert and elevate your organization’s approach to risk!
Bio
Clint Paskewitz is the Commercial Risk Director at Associated Insurance Services in Boise, Idaho, where he develops tailored risk management strategies for clients in construction, manufacturing and real estate. With over 25 years of experience in underwriting, brokerage and agency leadership, he brings deep expertise in contractual risk transfer, regulatory compliance, workers’ compensation, fleet safety and insurance program design. Clint is a Certified Risk Architect (CRA) and former Certified Idaho Workers’ Compensation Specialist (CIWCS), recognized with honors including Agent of the Year and Young Agent of the Year from the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of Idaho (IIABI), and features in Rough Notes Magazine and the Idaho Business Review. He currently serves as Government Affairs Chair and past State President of IIABI and sits on the Advisory Board of the Beyond Insurance Global Network (BIGN). Known for his practical approach to complex insurance challenges, Clint is a sought-after speaker, expert witness and mentor, committed to elevating industry standards and empowering professionals through education and collaboration.
Panel Discussion: Real-World AI in the Filtration Industry
Wednesday, October 22 | 10:00 am - 10:50 am
Panel Discussion: Real-World AI in the Filtration Industry - Immediately following his keynote, Greg Kihlström will moderate a panel of NAFA manufacturing and distribution leaders as they share real-world experiences with AI adoption. Panelists will discuss practical applications, lessons learned, and challenges overcome, offering actionable insights for members exploring AI-driven growth. The session will conclude with an audience Q&A.
Moderator:
Greg Kihlström
Principal
The Agile Brand
Panelist
Ryan Berkley, CAFS
President
B & B Filters
Bio
Ryan is the President and Owner of B&B Filters, where he's spent the past 3.5 years transforming traditional filtration business practices through strategic technology adoption. With a B.S. in Computing and years of experience as a software engineer, Ryan brings a unique tech-forward perspective to an industry ready for innovation. As a millennial leader who grew up alongside the digital revolution, Ryan equates AI to the discovery of electricity, a pivotal force reshaping how businesses operate. At B&B Filters, he's integrated AI into numerous daily business processes, from customer service and inventory management to sales forecasting and operational efficiency. This practical, hands-on approach to AI implementation has given B&B Filters a competitive edge in the marketplace. Ryan is passionate about helping fellow filtration industry professionals understand AI and sharing real-world applications that drive measurable results.
Panelist
Connor Fiederlein
Operations Manager
Tech Valley Filtration, LLC
Business Owners Panel: Adapt. Evolve. Succeed: A Roadmap for Resilient Business
Thursday, October 23 | 10:45 am - 1145 am
In today’s unpredictable economic, regulatory, and supply chain environment, steady leadership and strategic foresight are more important than ever. Join a panel of experienced NAFA business owners as they share how they’ve navigated past challenges, adapted to shifting market dynamics, and are preparing for what’s ahead. From lessons learned during times of crisis to innovative approaches for future growth, this candid conversation will provide actionable insights and inspiration for companies of all sizes. Attendees will walk away with practical ideas, fresh perspectives, and a renewed sense of resilience.
Moderator:
Keith Jordan, CAFS, NCT
NAFA Board Member and Guidelines Board Liaison
President
Colorado Air Filter LLC
Panelist:
Phil Dugan, NCT II
NAFA Board Member
President
Air Filter Superstore, LLC.
Panelist:
Trey Fly, CAFS, NCT II
NAFA Past President
President/Owner
Joe W. Fly Co., Inc.
Panelist:
Steve Griffiths, CAFS
NAFA Board of Directors
General Manager
Independent Filter Service P/L
Panelist:
Andrew McCord
President
Carolina Filters, Inc.
Bio
Andrew McCord is CEO of Carolina Filters, a leader in engineered filtration solutions with operations spanning process equipment cleaning, indoor air quality services, and value-added distribution. With more than 15 years of leadership experience, Andrew has guided the company through a period of significant growth and transformation, including a corporate rebrand, expansion into new markets, and supporting the former owners in successfully completing a recapitalization of the business. His work emphasizes innovation, operational excellence, and long-term partnerships across industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and education facilities. Andrew is particularly focused on advancing filtration technologies and service models that improve system reliability, reduce environmental impact, and create lasting customer value. A graduate of Clemson University with a degree in Chemical Engineering, Andrew combines technical expertise with strategic vision. Under his leadership, Carolina Filters has positioned itself as both a trusted partner to customers and a collaborative peer within the broader filtration community. He is passionate about building strong teams, fostering industry connections, and exploring opportunities that strengthen the future of the filtration ecosystem.
Guideline Spotlight
Data Centers
Thursday, October 23 | 10:15 am - 10:30 am
Keith Jordan, CAFS, NCT
NAFA Board Member and Guidelines Board Liaison
President
Colorado Air Filter LLC
Tim Mohan, CAFS, NCT
NAFA Guidelines Vice Chair
Principal
Tristate Filter & HVAC Supplies, Inc.