This uniquely designed event connects current and future women leaders in the wholesale tier by providing networking opportunities, developing advanced leadership skills and business acumen, and equipping attendees with tools to elevate and empower them in their roles in the ever-changing marketplace within the beverage alcohol industry.
Who should attend? The WLC Conference is designed to educate, elevate and empower current and future women leaders in the wholesale tier.
Speakers:
WSWA 101 gives attendees an introduction and update on how WSWA supports you and your teams as the only national membership organization of wine and spirits distributors, including the associations advocacy efforts on federal, state, regulatory, and legal issues impacting the beverage alcohol industry.
Speaker: Phyllis Wilson, President, Military Women’s Memorial Foundation & Special Government Employee
Each year, WLC chooses a charity to actively support during an organized activity to “give back” to the community and network with peers. It is by far one of the highlights of coming together to make a difference at the conference. The Women’s Military Memorial: HER SERVICE, HER STORY, HER LEGACY is a one of a kind tribute top America’s Servicewomen, past and present. The Memorial features an education center, interactive exhibits and a world-class collection of military women’s stories. As we gather at the memorial, we will focus on education and empowerment of women in service by using our collective power to give back in a memorable and meaningful way. Phyllis Wilson will host our group and talk about the importance of preserving: Her Service. Her Story. Her Legacy.
Enjoy scenic views and moving tributes at the National Women's Military Memorial as we hear from Congresswoman Sheri Biggs (SC-03) and Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks, M.D. (IA-01) , both military veterans, as they share their story and road to Capitol Hill.
Attendees will be divided into small groups to enjoy dinner within walking distance of the hotel on Wharf. Connect with friends and get to know new peers across the industry!
Start your day with mindful movement in this invigorating wellness session.
Learn from former WLC Advisory Board leaders about the value of networking and professional growth.
Have your headshots taken by a professional photographer! More information and signup to be shared with registered attendees.
Kick off the day’s discussions with an official welcome from WLC Chair Laura DePasquale, MS, SVP Commercial Operations Artisanal Wines, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits.
Speakers:
Mary O’Brien, Lieutenant General, United States Air Force, Retired
Lori Reynolds, Lieutenant General, United States Marine Corps, Retired
Join us as we hear from retired 3-Star Generals, Lt Gen Mary O’Brien (USAF) and LtGen Lori Reynolds (USMC) as they lead an amazing conversation around leadership in times of adversity, the importance of grounding your place at the table, team building, managing complexity, risk, talent management and organizational change. Throughout their careers, they were often the only woman in the room for their respective services. They were sought after to speak on issues affecting female service members and were trusted voices within their branches, navigating and commanding diverse teams, complex organizations and implementing developmental programs is paramount to their success all while driving decisions across national security and economic policy conflicts. LtGen Reynolds and Lt Gen O’Brien exemplify a commitment to breaking barriers and redefining what is possible for women in uniform. LtGen Reynolds was the first Marine Corps female battalion commander in combat, her leadership philosophy is anchored in the belief that trust is the cornerstone of any successful team. Lt Gen O’Brien pioneered advancements in the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles, networked weapons, and advanced intelligence sensors, significantly enhancing military operational capabilities. She led the USAF Women’s Initiative Teams to remove policy and culture barriers to women's military service.
Speaker:
Pull up a chair and join us for a relaxed, insightful fireside chat with Jessica Partington of Winebow, alongside Eric Schmidt and Michael Bilello from the WSWA SipSource team. Together, they’ll unpack the latest shifts in the wine and spirits landscape, blending real-time data with market-savvy insight.
Whether you're building a smarter portfolio or simply want to stay ahead of the trends, this session will give you the tools to turn data into action — all in a casual, conversational format.
Speaker: Swathi Young: CTO and AI/ML Strategy Architect, Fractional CTO for Startups and Smbs, Forbes Contributor, Georgetown MBA, and Genai Thought Leader
Join AI innovator Swathi Young as she demystifies how artificial intelligence is already transforming industries through real-world applications in distribution, logistics, customer insights, and brand growth. Drawing from her experience re-engineering critical systems at Amtrak and leading GenAI initiatives across federal and private sectors, Swathi will share how scalable and ethical AI strategies can drive measurable business outcomes. Attendees will explore practical use cases—from demand forecasting and route optimization to personalized marketing—and walk away with actionable steps to reduce waste, boost profitability, and begin leveraging AI within their own organizations.
Speaker: Edyta Satchell, Corporate Wellness Expert, Keynote Speaker, Founder & CEO, Satchelle Global Wellness & Finelle
Emotional wellness is one of the most overlooked—yet profoundly essential—dimensions of well-being in the workplace. In this powerful and transformational session, we will be guided through an inspiring journey that goes far beyond theory - a shared experience designed to uplift, empower, and ignite lasting change.
WLC conference sponsorships offer a unique opportunity to connect with female industry leaders and rising professionals in the wholesale tier of the beverage alcohol industry.
By supporting this initiative, sponsors not only enhance their visibility but also demonstrate their commitment to diversity, innovation, and leadership in an evolving marketplace.
