ASSOCIATE Magazine FBINAA Q1-2026

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SCALABILITY: THE HIDDEN ADVANTAGE One of the most significant benefits of the partnership model was the scalability it created. By combining their efforts, the chapters expanded their planning capacity, increased their ability to manage complex logistics, and enhanced their ability to deliver a high-quality event. Tasks that would have overwhelmed a single chapter became manageable when shared across a larger team. This increased capacity also allowed the chapters to pursue more ambitious training content, attract a broader range of ven dors, and create a more dynamic conference experience. The scalability of the partnership also contributed to in creased attendance and vendor participation, demonstrating that regional collaboration can generate momentum that benefits all participating chapters. The success of a joint training conference provides a compelling example of how chapters can leverage shared resources to achieve outcomes that would be difficult to accomplish independently. LESSONS LEARNED The Northwest Training Conference produced several key lessons that may be valuable to other chapters considering regional collaboration: 1. Shared responsibility reduces operational and financial risk, allowing chapters to pursue more ambitious training goals without overextending their resources. 2. Scalability enhances quality, as larger planning teams and pooled resources support stronger training content, improved logistics, and more robust vendor engagement. 3. Technology is essential, with websites, social media, and cost-free digital tools enabling efficient communication and streamlined registration processes. 4. Balanced programming strengthens engagement, as high- quality training combined with meaningful networking opportunities creates a comprehensive and memorable conference experience. 5. Financial transparency builds trust, ensuring that all participating chapters remain aligned and confident in the shared management of resources. A MODEL FOR THE FUTURE The partnership between the Washington and Montana-Ida ho Chapters demonstrates that regional collaboration is not only feasible but highly effective in addressing the challenges facing local chapters today. By working together, the chapters deliv ered a conference that met member expectations, strengthened professional relationships, and created a financially sustainable model for future events. As the law-enforcement profession con tinues to evolve and training demands increase, regional partner ships offer a practical and scalable strategy for maintaining the high standards of the FBINAA. Building on the momentum of the 2024 success, the Wash ington and Montana-Idaho Chapters have agreed to repeat this joint-conference model during even-numbered years and are planning for 2026. The chapters are also preparing to host the Sec tion I meeting immediately preceding the 2026 conference, further strengthening the partnership model and expanding the event's scalability. Looking ahead, the chapters intend to broaden the col laborative framework to include additional surrounding FBINAA Chapters and other law-enforcement executive training organiza tions, such as state associations of chiefs and sheriffs. Although the conference is designed for FBINAA members, all public safety and law enforcement personnel are welcome to attend.

The previous joint conference demonstrated that an inclu sive environment attracts a wider audience, including non-NAA attendees who value opportunities to train, learn, and network alongside FBINAA members. The chapters observed increased participation from professional (non-sworn) staff and individuals seeking to attend future National Academy sessions, reflecting the broad appeal and relevance of the training offered. This in clusive approach strengthens the profession by bringing together diverse perspectives and fostering a shared commitment to leadership and excellence. The chapters invite you to join them for the next Joint Washington/Idaho/Montana Chapter Fall Conference, scheduled for Sept. 27–30, 2026, at the Northern Quest Conference Center in Airway Heights, Wash. The 2026 conference promises to build on the strong foundation established in 2024 and to continue advancing the collaborative spirit that defines the FBINAA. Learn more about our upcoming conference by visiting the WA or ID-MT Chapter websites: • www.fbinaawa.org • www.fbinaamtid.com Section I Meeting and 2026 WA-MT-ID Joint Conference Infor mation & Registration: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2026 fbinaa-northwest-training-conference-wa-mt-id-chapters BY THE NUMBERS The 2024 WA-MT-ID Joint Training Conference demonstrated measurable success across attendance, fundraising, operational efficiency, and vendor engagement. Key outcomes included: • FBINAA Member Admission: 100 registrations, generating $26,000 • Retired FBINAA Member Admission: 18 registrations, generating $3,000 • Law Enforcement Guest (Non-NAA) Admission: 32 registrations, generating $11,000 • FBINAA Member Spouse/Family Guest Admission: 14 registrations, generating $1,500 • Golf Tournament: $600 raised • Youth Leadership Program Raffle: $7,000 raised • Vendor Registration: $42,000 raised • Zeffy Registration Platform: Use of the Zeffy platform for attendee and vendor registration enabled easy creation and sharing of QR codes and online payment links, supported credit-card processing, and saved the chapters over $3,500 in credit-card fees. • HelmsBriscoe Partnership: Professional services from HelmsBriscoe provided expert support in reviewing and negotiating hotel and venue contracts, reducing administrative burden and ensuring favorable terms. Previously, the Washington Chapter had contracted event planning at a cost of $15,000 per year. • Board and Volunteer Leadership: Reliance on chapter board members and volunteers to organize committees, coordinate events, and manage logistics significantly reduced staffing costs and strengthened member engagement. • FBI Field Office Support: Leadership teams at the FBI Field Offices in Seattle (WA) and Billings (MT) supported the conference by providing professional staff assistance and helping identify and secure high-quality training content.

FBINAA.ORG | Q1 2026

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