2025 CAF CONFERENCE-- Inspiring Excellence: Elevating to New Heights
Please join us for the annual members-only CAF Conference, February 27 - March 1, 2025 at the CAF National Airbase in Dallas, TX. The conference is aimed at CAF members with any level of experience, whether you have recently joined or are a long-time Unit leader; there's no better way to get to know the CAF! To attend this conference, you must be a CAF Colonel or Cadet.
The registration fee includes all sessions, all conference lunches, a ticket to the CAF Hall of Fame Banquet, and transportation to and from CAF National Airbase and the Hilton Garden Inn, Duncanville, TX.
If you are unable to attend the conference sessions, but would like to attend the CAF Hall of Fame dinner or if have a guest who will be attending the meals only, tickets for those individuals events are also available on the registration form below. For additional questions, call (877) 767-7175, ext. 142 or email Craig Tuminaro at ctuminaro@cafhq.org.
Do you have an idea for a great session?
Want to share a program that has worked really well to recruit new members, raise revenues, or improve safety and operations? Or have you always been curious about an area or topic about the CAF and its operation and want to learn more? Consider submitting a session proposal. We are accepting proposals from members for sessions that explore topics of common interest for Unit success, lessons learned, and even pitfalls to avoid! Preference will be given to proposals that include speakers/presenters from more than one Unit. Submit your session outlines by December 31, 2024. Registration fees will be waived for one organizer/presenter per session.
REGISTRATION COSTS
(Per Person, includes lunches and one ticket to the CAF Hall of Fame dinner on Saturday, March 1):
- $300 through February 12
- $350 beginning February 13
- $90 CAF Hall of Fame dinner only
HOTEL INFORMATION
The conference hotel is the Hilton Garden Inn, 800 N. Main St., Duncanville, TX. The group rate is $139 per night plus 13% tax. The rate includes breakfast vouchers for up to two people per room. Click here to book online.
To reserve by phone, please call (972) 283-9777 and ask for the "Commemorative Air Force 2025 Conference" (group code CAFC).
The hotel features a restaurant and bar on site, complimentary wireless internet in guestrooms, and complimentary self-parking. The room block and special rate will be available for reservations through noon on Thursday, February 6, 2025.
PRELIMINARY EVENT SCHEDULE
All events will be held at the CAF National Airbase.
Schedule is subject to change.
Thursday, Feb 27
Registration Open Noon – 5 p.m.
8 - 9 a.m. American Airpower Heritage Foundation Board Meeting
9:15 - 10:30 a.m American Airpower Heritage Flying Museum Board Meeting
10:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. American Airpower Heritage Museum Board Meeting
1- 4 p.m. General Staff Board Meeting
5 - 6:30 p.m. Welcome Reception
Friday, Feb 28
Registration Open 7:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
8:15 - 9: 15 a.m. Opening General Session – State of the CAF
9:30 - 10: 45 a.m. Breakout Session 1
11:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. Breakout Session 2
12:15 - 1:15 p.m. Lunch
1:15 - 2:15 p.m. Conference Keynote from CAF Life Member Dr. Eric Downing. Learn more about Eric by clicking here.
2:30 – 3:45 p.m. Breakout Session 3
4:00 – 5:15 p.m. Breakout Session 4
Saturday, March 1
Registration Open 8:30 a.m. - Noon
9:00 – 10:15 a.m. Breakout Session 5
10:30 - 11: 45 a.m. Breakout Session 6
Noon - 1:15 p.m. Lunch & CAF Awards
1:30 - 2:45 p.m. Breakout Session 7
3:00 – 4:00 p.m. CAF Town Hall and Advisory Board Meeting with the President (open to all)
6:30 p.m. CAF Hall of Fame Cocktail Hour with cash bar
7:30 p.m. CAF Hall of Fame Ceremony and Banquet Dinner
9:00 - 11:00 p.m. Shuttle circulates between CAF National Airbase and Hotel
Suggested attire for the Hall of Fame dinner is CAF Uniform, military uniforms, or semi-formal attire
PRELIMINARY LIST OF BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Subject to change.
DEVELOPMENT
Fundraising Fundamentals: Building Relationships, Inspiring Support
Take your fundraising efforts to new heights in this essential session designed to empower Unit leaders and members with the tools for success. Learn how to strengthen relationships with funders and top donors, craft compelling messages that align the CAF’s mission with donor values, and adopt a donor-centered perspective that drives engagement. This session will also provide practical tips, proven strategies, and actionable tools to elevate your fundraising game and secure the support needed to sustain and grow your Unit’s impact. Don’t miss this opportunity to inspire excellence in your fundraising journey!
EDUCATION
Aviation Discovery Zone Expo
Presented by Christiano Mazziotti
Experience firsthand activities the National Aviation Education Center offers kids of all ages. The highlighted activities are a proven hit during Camp SOAR, A is for Aerospace, and airshows. We host thousands of kids through a variety of programs where the central theme is hands-on activities focused on aviation and career related experiences. During this session we have selected the best of the best for you to see and do! We want to provide you with a make-and take experience and send you back to your local unit with new activity ideas that will engage kids in learning about aviation. Showcasing the principles of flight, engineering, and mechanics is something YOU can do while Educating, Inspiring, and Honoring!
Education in Your Community
Presented by Dr. Jennifer Stimpson
Join Dr. Jennifer Stimpson, the Director of Education at the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center for an informal discussion on ways to get involved with formal and informal education programs in your region. Learn how to meet with teachers and administrators in your area and brainstorm the types of programs your unit can offer that will entice schools to visit.
Project Cub: A Hands-On Intern Project
Presented by Melissa Rogers
The CAF acquired a 1946 J-3 Piper Cub aircraft in need of restoration. CAF/NAEC staff, volunteers, and aviation experts have been overseeing high school interns who are driving the restoration process. Seven interns are currently working on the project under the supervision of a restoration project coordinator and their classroom aviation instructor. Hear from the project coordinator and the interns themselves about the project and the experience.
CAF Pilot Scholarship
Presented by Nathan Huegen
The CAF Pilot Scholarship provides up to $12,000 for CAF Cadets to earn their Private Pilot’s License. Cadets apply for the scholarship with a CAF mentor from their unit and are free to work with any reputable flight school or instructor in their area. Each recipient must provide reports on significant milestones from their training on their way to a successful check ride. Learn how to mentor a cadet to a successful application from Nathan Huegen, CAF Vice President of Education.
Commemorative Air Force Museum & Archive Open House
Presented by Nathan Huegen and Kevin Hahn
Learn how to effectively care for, display, and interpret your artifact collection with examples from the exhibits located in the NAEC. In addition, learn the background of the CAF Nose Art Collection and the journey it has taken to the current exhibition.
FINANCE
Finance – Part I
Presented by April Robinson and Lance Linguist
This class or refresher class will help you better understand the role and responsibilities of a Unit Finance Officer. Topics covered: Corporate Structure; Finance Officer’s role and obligations; deadlines/timelines; Aircraft Accounts; MFB; MCRP; Military contract and invoicing; Proffer of Gifts; Cash Donation Forms; IRS Form 8283; Credit Cards.
Finance – Part II
Presented by April Robinson and Lance Linguist
This class or refresher class will help you better understand the role and responsibilities of a Unit Finance Officer. Topics covered: Insurance; Sales Tax; W-9 and 1099 reporting; Fuel Tax Rebate; Drug & Alcohol Invoices; Budgets.
Quickbooks Online – Part I
Presented by April Robinson and Steve Fryman (Indiana Wing Finance Officer)
Class to provide the Finance Officer the basics of Quickbooks Online/Bookkeeping. (Bringing your laptop for hands on experience would be helpful.) Discuss the Chart of Accounts, how to perform bank reconciliations, how to create a vendor, how to create a customer, how to create an invoice, how to write a check, how to create a deposit, how to present financial information to your unit.
Quickbooks Online - Part II
Presented by April Robinson and Steve Fryman (Indiana Wing Finance Officer)
Class will discuss advanced concepts, tricks and tips of Quickbooks Online. (Bringing your laptop for hands on experience would be helpful.) Discuss concepts such as subcategories, classes, locations and tags. Highlight issues April encounters. How to attach .pdf to your records.
Quickbooks Online – Part III Data Entry Automation (Make the Computer Do It)
Presented by April Robinson and Steve Fryman (Indiana Wing Finance Officer)
Class will show the Finance Officer how to pull invoices and transaction receipts into Quickbooks (QBO) automatically, then apply the GL accounts to use; setting up Bank Accounts in QBO (refresher from QBO I course); QBO Banking Rules – aka Accounting Import magic; Bank Receipts – importing transaction invoices and receipts manually AND automatically. (Bringing your laptop for hands on experience would be helpful.)
The True Cost of Flying: Planning for Sustainable Aircraft Operations
Presented by Lance Linguist
This session will provide a comprehensive breakdown of both the fixed and variable costs associated with operating CAF aircraft, as well as the long-term financial considerations that are often overlooked. Learn how to develop a more accurate cost model, plan for sustainable operations, and ensure that your aircraft can continue to soar for years to come. This session is a must for anyone involved in the financial management of CAF aircraft operations.
Finance Officers Roundtable
Presented and Moderated by Lance Linguist
This class will be an opportunity for Finance Officers to ask questions to other Finance Officers about how they deal with issues and how they provide support for their unit. Concepts such as how to build a budget; how to create a business plan; how to report costs by aircraft or airshow, etc. New topics, such as Hold Harmless system; Rally Point
LEADERSHIP
New Unit Officers Check-In: Laying the Foundation for Success
Step confidently into your leadership role with this essential session tailored for new Unit officers. Join members of the CAF’s Executive Leadership Team as they guide you through strategies for fostering connection, keeping members engaged, and building a motivated team. Discover practical insights into effective leadership while ensuring your Unit operates smoothly and meets organizational requirements. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your approach, this session will equip you with the tools and knowledge to elevate your leadership and inspire excellence in your Unit.
Leadership Deep Dive: Building a High-Performing Culture
Expand on the insights from Dr. Eric Downing’s keynote in this engaging and practical session. Delve into proven strategies and actionable tactics to foster a high-performing culture through impactful leadership. Learn how to inspire excellence within your organization, elevate team dynamics, and create an environment where success thrives. This interactive session is designed for leaders at all levels who are ready to take their leadership skills—and their teams—to new heights.
Unit Leader Forum: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities
Join CAF President/CEO David Oliver for an engaging and collaborative forum designed exclusively for Unit Leaders. This session will explore the unique challenges and exciting opportunities faced by those at the helm of the CAF’s Wings and Squadrons. Gain valuable insights into effective leadership strategies, learn from shared experiences, and discover practical solutions to common obstacles. Attendees are encouraged to contribute their own perspectives, share success stories, and discuss pitfalls to avoid, making this an invaluable opportunity for peer-to-peer learning and growth. Let’s work together to inspire excellence and lead our units to new heights!
MARKETING
Faces of the CAF: Creating the Right Impression
This session will focus on creating cohesive branding that reflects the CAF’s mission and ensures our messaging resonates with aviation enthusiasts, supporters, and the public. CAF Volunteers are often the public's first point of contact and usually leave a lasting impression. Learn the best practices for creating meaningful interactions, answering common questions, and building excitement about the CAF’s aircraft and programs.
Buzz Builders: Mastering Event Promotion & Outreach
Learn how to amplify the impact of your events with strategic promotion and outreach techniques! In this hands-on workshop, you'll discover the essentials of spreading the word about airshows, fundraisers, and educational programs to drive attendance and engagement. You'll also Learn how to connect with local media outlets and community organizations, craft attention-grabbing press releases, and leverage word-of-mouth marketing.
On Message, On Mission: Storytelling and Interviewing Skills
Discover how to captivate audiences through powerful storytelling that highlights the heart of the CAF mission. In this session, you’ll learn to craft compelling narratives that connect emotionally with the public, from the restoration journey of an aircraft to the personal stories of those who bring history to life. You’ll also explore how to be an effective interviewee by answering questions with clarity, authenticity, and enthusiasm, ensuring your story resonates.
Creating Social Media Gold: Aviation Photos and Videos
Learn how to capture and curate stunning aviation imagery that soars on social media. This workshop covers essential tips for photographing aircraft and events, selecting the most eye-catching visuals, and optimizing them for maximum engagement online. You’ll also explore best practices for collaborating with aviation photographers, including understanding their needs, providing clear briefs, and effectively showcasing their work.
Tools for Take Off - Building Your Social Media Presence
Elevate your social media skills with this workshop to help amplify your online impact. Learn how to promote the Commemorative Air Force’s mission, events, and stories through engaging posts and strategic content. Discover the power of digital tools, including AI-powered platforms for content creation, scheduling, and analytics, to save time and maximize effectiveness. Topics include crafting posts that resonate with your audiences, leveraging hashtags, and using tools like Canva, ChatGPT, and scheduling apps to streamline your efforts.
MEMBERSHIP
Membership 101: Unlocking the Keys to Growth and Retention
What do terms like Active, Lapsed, Dropped, New, Renewed, and Rejoined really mean for your Unit’s membership strategy? Join the CAF’s Membership Team for an in-depth exploration of the processes behind recruiting, fulfilling, and retaining members. This session will demystify membership terminology, provide actionable insights into building a thriving membership base, and offer practical tips to enhance engagement and long-term retention. Whether you're looking to boost your recruitment efforts or strengthen member loyalty, this session will equip you to elevate your Unit’s membership success to new heights.
The Three R's of Membership: Recruit, Retain, & Regain
Elevate your Unit’s membership success with a deep dive into the three essential pillars: recruiting passionate new members, retaining their engagement, and regaining those who have drifted away. In this collaborative session, participants will exchange effective strategies, share proven tactics, and explore innovative approaches to fostering a “Member First” culture. Learn how to build strong connections, inspire long-term commitment, and position your Unit for sustained growth. Join us to gain actionable insights and take your membership efforts to the next level!
OPERATIONS
Intro/Safety and SMS Review
Presented by Jim Lasche
Maintenance training, supervision, documentation, and special requirements for LOA aircraft
Presented by Noel Mareno
CAF Insurance review plus Q & A
Presented by Jim Lasche, Greg Hiser & Lance Linquist
Operations Review and Training
Presented by Bill Ervin
Traxxall/Instructions for Continued Airworthiness
Presented by Noel Mareno
Ground Safety Review
Presented by Jim Lasche & OPS Team
Safety recommendations going forward.
Aircraft Restoration Update
Presented by Alan Brooks
This session offers the latest on CAF aircraft undergoing restoration plus a sneak peek on those that will be returning to service in 2024
