Switchback Spring, June 16-18, 2026 in New Orleans, LA
  •  
Switchback at TRE, December 1-3, 2026 in San Antonio, TX

Attend

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Exhibit

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Call for Education

Switchback Call for Education:

Apply to Speak at Switchback Spring 2026

Our team is looking for thought leaders and industry experts who can deliver actionable content across a broad range of topics to our audience of outdoor specialty retailers, brand professionals and industry leaders.

From sustainable practices to evolving trends and improved business efficiencies, we are seeking submissions that will educate, strengthen and elevate the outdoor industry. Presentations will focus on fresh perspectives and guidance for independent retailers, addressing key challenges and innovative strategies to improve their businesses and engage their communities.

The Switchback Spring 2026 education program will be centered around the theme “Equipping the Outdoor Industry for the Future” and will come to life through dynamic learning opportunities and timely conversations that will help strengthen the outdoor industry for long term success.

Key Dates

  • Thursday, October 23, 2025: Call for Education opens
  • Thursday, December 18, 2025: Call for Education closes 
  • Early Spring 2026: Accepted speakers will be notified

Program Focus Areas

Listed below are content focus areas for the Switchback Spring education program; this list is not comprehensive of all possible topics.

  • Outdoor Culture & Community Building 
  • Brand-Retailer Relationships & Supply Chain Management  
  • Sustainability, Advocacy & Policy Impacts 
  • Business Leadership & Change Management 
  • Market Trends & Consumer Insights 
  • Retail Technology & Innovation 

Available Session Formats

Please note, session formats will be tailored to best fit session topics and number of presenters.

  • 45-minute session – single presenter or panel
  • 90-minute workshop – single presenter or panel
  • 30-minute theater session (in the exhibit hall) – single presenter or panel

Speaker Benefits

In addition to an impactful platform, speakers will receive:

  • One All-Access pass to Switchback Spring, including access to all conference sessions, the exhibit hall, and event activities
  • Invaluable networking opportunities with outdoor industry peers 
  • Photo, biography, and session details featured on the Switchback website, event app, 2026 Event Guide, and other marketing promotions 
  • Potential to be featured or quoted in Trailheads articles and press materials about Switchback Spring 

 

Accepted speakers will meet with the Conference Team to learn more about speaker packages, which may include honorarium, travel stipend, and / or complimentary housing. Packages are commensurate with experience and session type.

Resources

Switchback Official Event Partner

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Get In Touch

Caitlin Ewing

Conference Manager

Questions? Email Caitlin and the Switchback conference team at [email protected] for support.

FAQs

Find answers to your questions about Switchback Spring. 

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