We’ve barely had time to unpack from our three-day journey to Scottsdale, Arizona, let alone reflect on the program rolled out during the Executive Connection Summit (ECS), held Jan. 12-15 at the Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch. ECS founder/Consortium shepherds Mike Stramaglio and Hiro Ueda continue to challenge themselves and content organizers to develop a program that is relevant, cutting edge and bursting with real-time innovations that promise to touch all industries and, as the long-stated mission observes, to float all boats.
From AI and quantum computing to product and service diversification opportunities, ECS delivered on its promise to show the 300-odd attendees an efficient and profitable way forward. We’ll kick off this year’s coverage with an ECS edition of Hot Takes, a collection of impressions from office technology dealership executives garnered not long after everyone returned to their respective offices. These dealers offered their initial reactions, memorable highlights and suggestions to enhance future gatherings. Read on:
Tim Renegar, Kelly Office Solutions: As always, ECS is an extremely important meeting with some cutting-edge information. I think from a dealer perspective, it emphasizes how much and how FAST things are evolving. We must stay informed to make proper and timely decisions on so many fronts. An information goldmine. Now how to best move forward and be ready is the challenge. I wouldn’t change much. The agenda is packed but maybe a little more break time between some of the sessions.
Joe Blatchford, Image 2000: I thoroughly enjoyed the guest speakers on both days. The Navy SEAL’s presentation was among the most captivating I’ve ever experienced. The session on quantum computing was both fascinating and, admittedly, a bit unsettling. Although we had the same presenter from last year, his insights into the surging energy demands, the necessity for advanced cooling solutions, and the spatial requirements to support AI growth were highly informative. Despite the diversity among the speakers, their core messages resonated well together. The dealer panels addressing various industry-specific topics were also valuable.
One suggestion: consider hosting the dinners indoors. For the past two years, the cold temperatures have somewhat hindered our dining experience and conversations.
Carson Stone, Stone’s Office Equipment: Mike Stramaglio and his team did an outstanding job with this year’s Executive Connection Summit! I first attended in 2019, and I truly believe this year’s event was the best yet. The content was highly relevant to dealers of all sizes, striking a great balance between current technologies and emerging innovations. It provided a clear roadmap for how AI and technology integrations will shape the industry’s future.
The panels were incredibly insightful, offering valuable perspectives on each topic. Two that stood out to me were the Breakaway Team panel and the Distribution Management panel. The Breakaway Team panel resonated not just because of the topic, but because of ECS’ continued commitment to fostering the next generation of industry leaders. We have an incredible pool of young talent, and it’s crucial that we fully embrace them, providing the guidance and opportunities they need to step into leadership roles when the time comes.
The Distribution Management panel was especially impactful for us at Stone’s, as we had just been discussing ways to automate toner delivery and improve inventory management. The insights shared were timely and directly applicable to our business.
Although Wednesday’s portion of the meeting was brief, it was incredibly impactful. Stone’s was founded by my grandfather, an Air Force veteran, and we have been fortunate to hire and retain many great veterans within our company. One of the biggest challenges we face is outreach and connection to transitioning service members. Wednesday’s session provided valuable insights and actionable strategies on how we can better serve both our veteran employees and the broader veteran community. It reinforced our commitment to ensuring that those who have served our country have access to meaningful career opportunities and the support they deserve.
Overall, ECS 2025 was a 10/10. I have no idea how Mike and Hiro plan to top this year’s event, but knowing them, they absolutely will.
Chip Miceli, Pulse Technology: What can I say—Sean Brehm absolutely blew me away! Quantum Computing and authentic AI have been fascinating topics, and I’ve been reading everything I can find about this topic.
I always enjoy seeing copier vendors participate on panels—it adds so much value to how they are different. It’s also exciting to see more ERP providers entering our space; it’s a sign of growth and innovation.
That said, I’m not a fan of sponsors using their time to promote their products. I’d much rather hear from their customers about the real-world impact. Vendors should focus on contributing insights, not sales pitches.
Lastly, I’d love to see more dealers attending. I think they’re missing out on some incredible opportunities here.
Dean Swenson, The Swenson Group: ECS is always great at bringing together industry leaders and providing provocative content. I thought Impact Networking’s presentation was impressive as well as Kirk Offel’s take on the 5th Industrial Revolution. The keynote speaker, Mike Sarraille, was motivational and excellent.
Christine Liphardt, UTEC: I think my biggest takeaway from this year’s ECS event is how it’s more important than ever for traditional dealerships to have a vast, diversified portfolio. Our industry is changing, and AI is such a huge part of it! I think everyone got quickly educated on how quantum computing will be here and it will be here in the not-too-distant future. Will we be prepared for it? How will our MNS offerings change due to AI and quantum computing? How will that affect our cybersecurity offerings? I feel that this year’s speakers and panels gave everyone a lot to think about.
