Your MAXX 2026 Get Ready Guide

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on September 9, 2026

MAXX 2026 is almost here! In just a few weeks, credit union leaders from across the GoWest region and beyond will gather in Denver for four days of learning, connection, inspiration and celebration.

Whether this is your first MAXX or you’ve been joining us for years, a little preparation can go a long way toward making the most of your time at the conference.

From what to pack to what to do when you get home, here’s your MAXX 2026 Get-Ready Guide with tips to help you prepare for the experience ahead.

What to Pack

Daytime — Business casual is the dress code for daytime events. Pack layers so you can stay comfortable as you move between rooms and halls, which can vary in temperature.

“Moonlight & Miracles” CU4Kids Benefit Auction — This is your chance to bring a little elegance and imagination to the evening. Get inspired by checking out the What to Wear Guide.

GoWest Awards Dinner & Gala — Plan for cocktail or semi-formal attire for this special evening celebrating the people and organizations making a difference across the Movement.

Pack comfortable shoes — You’ll cover plenty of ground at MAXX, so comfortable shoes are a must. Consider bringing more than one pair to give your feet a break between busy days and evening events.

Bring business cards —MAXX is all about making connections. Come prepared to exchange contact information with the people you meet throughout the conference.

Make the Most of MAXX

Get settled when you arrive. Getting to the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center from Denver International Airport (DEN) is easy. By rental car, taxi, Uber or Lyft, it’s about a 10-minute drive.

Stop by registration. Head to the registration area on Level 1 of the Gaylord Rockies Convention Center to pick up your name badge and MAXX tote. You can also register for the CU4Kids Benefit Auction or pick up your auction packet if you registered in advance.

Take notes — and share your feedback. Jot down key takeaways during or immediately after sessions while the information is fresh. Be sure to use the MAXX app surveys to share your thoughts on the sessions and programming you attend.

Make networking a priority. Strike up a conversation during receptions, breaks and meals. With hundreds of credit union peers in one place, you never know where your next great idea, partnership or professional connection might come from.

Use the MAXX app to stay connected. The “shake” feature in the GoWest Events MAXX app makes exchanging contact information simple. Just shake your phone next to another attendee’s to share your details. You can also message your new contacts directly through the app.

Try something outside your usual lane. Make time for at least one session that falls outside your current role or area of expertise. A new perspective could spark an idea you can bring back to your team — or introduce you to a future collaborator.

Stay hydrated. Denver’s high elevation means hydration is especially important. Keep water handy throughout the day and make an effort to drink more than you normally would.

Keep the Momentum Going

Share what you learned. When you return to the office, don’t keep those MAXX takeaways to yourself. Share ideas and insights with your team, board or supervisor while they’re still fresh. Your MAXX experience can benefit your entire credit union.

Follow up with new connections. Send a quick message to the people you met and continue the conversation. A conference introduction can be the beginning of a valuable professional relationship.

Tell us what you think. Watch for a post-MAXX survey from GoWest. Your feedback helps us understand what’s working, what you’d like to see more of and how we can continue making MAXX an impactful experience for credit unions across the region.

Ready for MAXX?

If you haven’t registered for MAXX 2026 yet, there’s still time to join us Oct. 6-9 at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in Denver.

Posted in MAXX.