GAWDA SMC 2026: Where Big Skies, Big Ideas, and Big Connections Happen
From May 17-19, 2026, more than 700 members of the gases and welding industry will gather at theOmni Oklahoma City Hotel for the GAWDA Spring Management Conference.
This year’s SMC is themed “The Human Advantage in the Digital Age,” a timely topic as distributors continue to navigate rapid technological change, shifting workforce expectations, evolving customer needs, and continued pressure to do more with less. While the tools may be changing, the foundation of this industry remains the same: strong relationships, sound leadership, and practical ideas that can be put to work.
The Spring Management Conference is designed to promote interaction between owners, CEOs, managers, operations leaders, and key decision makers. Over the course of three days, attendees can expect dynamic keynote speakers, six educational track sessions, expanded Contact Booths with larger spaces and vehicle showcases, and countless opportunities to network with peers, leaders, suppliers, and decision makers from across the industry.
This year’s educational tracks cover a wide range of topics, including ERP conversion readiness, financial data, sales growth, family business transitions, multi-generational workforce leadership, and safety planning. No matter your role or company size, the goal is the same: to send attendees home with actionable take-home value.
The 2026 SMC will also mark the return of Best in Show for the third consecutive year, giving attendees the opportunity to see new products, technologies, and solutions from GAWDA supplier members. The conference will also include the President’s Welcome Reception at The Jones Assembly and plenty of time to enjoy Oklahoma City, a 2028 U.S. Olympic host city with a walkable downtown filled with dining, nightlife, and entertainment.
