CEO Co-Lab Puts Credit Union Leaders at the Center of the Agenda

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on November 11, 2026

Credit union CEOs will have an opportunity to step away from the day-to-day, connect with peers, and explore the issues shaping the future of the Movement at CEO Co-Lab, taking place in Jan. 6-8 in Phoenix. With an agenda built around dialogue, shared experiences, and the priorities of participating leaders, CEO Co-Lab offers a different kind of gathering — one where the conversations are just as valuable as the insights.

The two-day event will feature a mix of thought-provoking discussions, interactive sessions, and opportunities for CEOs to learn from one another. Rather than a traditional conference centered on presentations, CEO Co-Lab is designed to create space for candid conversations and idea-sharing among leaders navigating similar challenges.

Exploring the Credit Union Story and Reputation

Thursday morning will kick off with communications strategist and bestselling author Richard Laermer, who will lead an interactive session, “The Reputation We Build — Owning the Credit Union Story Together.”

The session will challenge CEOs to think beyond how their individual credit unions communicate their value and consider how the Credit Union Movement is perceived as a whole. Participants will explore whether today’s credit union story clearly conveys the Movement’s value and differentiation — and what can happen when others are left to define that narrative.

The discussion will examine the shared responsibility credit unions have in building a strong, relevant reputation and ensuring the cooperative difference is understood.

Thursday afternoon will feature a conversation with Steve Williams of Cornerstone Advisors. Known for combining industry expertise with proprietary data to help financial institutions thrive in a challenging environment, Cornerstone brings a valuable perspective to the issues facing credit union leaders today.

The day will also include CEO-led roundtables, creating opportunities for participants to exchange perspectives, discuss emerging challenges, and draw insights from the experiences of their peers.

Friday Continues the Conversation

Friday morning will open with a fireside chat featuring industry experts, offering another opportunity for CEOs to engage in meaningful dialogue and explore perspectives relevant to their organizations and the broader Movement.

The agenda is intentionally shaped by the CEOs attending. Leaders are encouraged to bring forward the topics, questions, and challenges most important to them, helping ensure the conversations reflect the real-time priorities of credit union leadership.

CEOs can submit discussion topics during registration or share ideas with Carmen Vigil, GoWest SVP of Credit Union Engagement and Development.

Make Plans to Join CEO Co-Lab

CEO Co-Lab is an opportunity to connect with fellow credit union leaders, contribute to conversations that matter, and leave with fresh perspectives informed by the collective experience of the room.

With late pricing beginning Dec. 1, now is the time to make plans to attend. Join fellow CEOs from across the country in Phoenix this January for a collaborative experience built around the issues and opportunities shaping the future of credit unions.

Posted in Arizona, Colorado, Events, Idaho, Leadership, Oregon, Regional Member News, Small Credit Unions, Top Headlines, Washington, Wyoming.