Where Women in Financial Services Come to Learn, Lead & Connect

Join women from across the country for two inspiring days of professional development, meaningful networking, and practical strategies designed to help you grow your career, strengthen your business, and build lasting connections.

September 15–18, 2026 | Portland, Oregon

 

 

Why Attend?

The WIFS National Conference is more than an event—it's an investment in your future.

Step away from the demands of your daily work and spend two days learning from industry experts, connecting with women who understand your journey, and discovering new ideas you can immediately apply to your business.

Whether you're looking to grow your practice, develop as a leader, expand your network, or simply recharge alongside like-minded professionals, you'll leave inspired, equipped, and connected.

You'll leave with:

  • Practical strategies you can implement immediately
  • Fresh ideas from industry experts and thought leaders
  • Meaningful relationships with professionals across the country
  • New confidence to tackle your next career goal
  • A stronger professional network that extends well beyond the conference


Conference Fees

Member (Early Bird) $749 Member (Regular) $849
Non-Member (Early Bird) $1,039 Non-Member (Regular) $1,139
Students $539 Exhibitor Booth Rep Only $549*

Members! Be sure to log into your member profile to receive member rates.
*Please note that an exhibitor booth registration for your company is required.
 

Who Should Attend?

This conference is designed for women at every stage of their career in insurance and financial services.

Whether you're:

  • Growing your client base
  • Building your leadership skills
  • Managing a team or agency
  • Looking for innovative business strategies
  • Expanding your professional network
  • New to the industry
  • A seasoned professional looking for fresh inspiration

...you'll find education, connections, and opportunities that will help move your career forward.

Featured Speakers & Sessions

Hear from respected leaders and industry experts covering topics that matter most to today's financial professionals.

Topics include:

  • Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Technology
  • Leadership Development
  • Business Growth Strategies
  • Client Relationships
  • Communication & Confidence
  • Sales & Practice Management
  • Personal & Professional Development

Explore the full agenda to discover sessions designed to help you grow both personally and professionally.

Event Highlights

Tuesday, September 15

6:30–9:30 PM - Welcome Reception
Reconnect with colleagues and meet new friends at Punchbowl Social in Portland. 

Wednesday, September 16

8:00–9:30 AM - WIFS Member Annual Business Meeting

11:00–11:50 AM - Opening Keynote: Unmasking Imposter Syndrome - with Shari Dunn 

12:35–1:20 PM - Leadership Panel: Boldly Building Community
A conversation about mentorship, intentional networking, and building stronger professional communities.

1:50–2:35 PM - Breakout Sessions

  • How to Calm Anxious Clients -  with Barbara Kay
  • The Invisible Leadership Load: Closing the Leadership Capacity Gap in a world that never slows down - with Sophia Asghar
  • The AI Edge - with Sheri Fitts

2:45–3:30 PM - Breakout Sessions 
  • Leveraging LinkedIn to Consistently Attract and Convert Quality Clients - with Bruno Nicoletti
  • Stress-Free Thriving and Peak Mental Fitness - with Barbara Kay
  • Setting Your Prices & Negotiating Your Salary- with Kate Dixon


3:50–4:55 PM - Networking Roundtables
Join facilitated table discussions on hot topics like negotiating your salary, industry specific products, finding a mentor, succession planning, and more.

Thursday, September 17

8:35–9:20 AM  Economic Outlook
Gain insights into today's economic landscape and what it means for your clients and business.

9:25–9:40 AM
NAIFA Legislative Update with Carina Hatfield
Stay informed on legislative developments impacting the financial services profession.

9:40–9:50 AM Partner Spotlight: Big Idea
Presented by Cambridge

10:05–10:50 AM - Breakout Sessions

  • Mastermind Your Success: Peer-Powered Solutions for Financial Professionals - DPC Coaching Team
  • Unlocking the Power of Female Wealth: 10 Strategies for Advisor Growth - Megan Easton
  • Diamond Medallion Status of Self-Care - Lenora Johnson 


11:25 AM–12:25 PM - Awards Luncheon
 Celebrate the outstanding achievements and leadership of WIFS members.

12:25–1:10 PM - Fast & Furious Learning Sessions
 A series of quick, high-impact presentations packed with practical ideas and takeaways you can immediately apply to your business.

2:00–2:45 PM - Breakout Sessions

  • Driving Firm Efficiencies with AI - Tricia Brady 
  • Your Brand is Your Business Case - Sheri Fitt
  • Engaging in Courageous Conversations - Kirsten Menenghello

3:20–4:15 PM - Closing Keynote
Applied Curiosity: The Secret Weapon for Teams to Outthink the Future with Carla Johnson

7:00–10:00 PM - THRIVE! Celebration: Iconic Divas
Celebrate an unforgettable conference with an evening of entertainment, networking, and fun. Come dressed as your favorite iconic diva, like Beyonce, Dolly Parton, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, or even a famed WIFS member.

 

Friday, September 18

8:00 AM–5:00 PM  Departures, Excursions, Chapter Leader MastHERmind
Say farewell to friends old and new, explore the Portland area with other WIFS members (extra fees may apply), and Chapter Leaders are invited to spend a half-day learning and connecting at our MastHERmind half-day session.

Invest in Yourself

Every day you invest in your clients. This is your opportunity to invest in yourself.

Two days of learning.
Two days of meaningful conversations.
Two days that could spark your next big idea, introduce you to your next mentor, or open the door to your next opportunity.

Your career is worth it.

We can't wait to welcome you to Portland.

  

 

Frequently Asked Questions

I've never attended a WIFS National Conference. Will I fit in?

Absolutely! Every year we welcome first-time attendees from across the country. Whether you come with colleagues or attend on your own, you'll find a welcoming community of women who are eager to connect, share ideas, and support one another. Many attendees tell us they arrived knowing no one—and left with lifelong professional connections.

Who should attend?

The WIFS National Conference is designed for women (and those who support women!) at every stage of their career in insurance and financial services. Whether you're new to the industry, building your business, leading a team, or looking to expand your network, you'll find valuable education, practical strategies, and meaningful connections.

What will I gain from attending?

You'll leave with:

  • Actionable ideas you can implement right away
  • New professional relationships and referral opportunities
  • Fresh perspectives from industry experts
  • Leadership and business development strategies
  • Renewed motivation and confidence

Many attendees say the conversations they have between sessions are just as valuable as the education itself.

Is the conference worth the investment?

We believe so. Investing in your professional development can pay dividends long after the conference ends. Whether you gain a new client, discover a more effective business strategy, connect with a mentor, or build relationships that lead to future opportunities, the value often extends well beyond the two days you'll spend in Portland.

I'm attending by myself. Will there be opportunities to meet people?

Absolutely. WIFS is known for its supportive and welcoming community. Between networking receptions, meals, breakout sessions, social events, and informal conversations throughout the conference, you'll have plenty of opportunities to meet fellow attendees and build lasting connections.

What should I wear?

Business casual is appropriate for most conference sessions. Many attendees choose business professional attire for keynote presentations and networking events. This year, we're implementing a sneaker rule - you're welcome to wear your most comfortable shoes along with your business attire. No need for tall heels unless you really love them!

Do I need to attend every session?

Not at all. The conference offers a variety of educational sessions, networking opportunities, and social events. You can customize your experience by attending the sessions that best fit your interests and professional goals.

Can I justify the conference to my employer?

Yes! The conference provides professional development, leadership training, business growth strategies, industry insights, and networking opportunities that can benefit both you and your organization. Many employers support attendance as an investment in employee development.

Why should I attend instead of another conference?

The WIFS National Conference is uniquely focused on supporting women in insurance and financial services. Beyond the educational content, you'll experience a community built on mentorship, collaboration, and professional growth. It's a place where lasting relationships are formed, ideas are shared openly, and women invest in one another's success.

When should I register?

Registration closes on September 5, and we encourage you to register early to secure your spot and begin planning your conference experience.

 

Thank You to Our 2026 Conference Sponsors