#ACELing2026 ~ Forged in Service: Leadership Across Sectors

July 20, 2026

2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference

Shaping What's Next: Influence. Innovation. Impact.

August 13–14, 2026 | Omni Tempe Hotel | Tempe, Arizona


SCHEDULE | TOPICS | SPEAKERS | REGISTRATION

Digital Program Booklet


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Forged in Service: Leadership Across Sectors


Leadership is shaped by experiences, challenges, and a commitment to serving something greater than oneself. At the 2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference, “Forged in Service: Leadership Across Sectors” explores a remarkable leadership journey spanning military service, public policy, and the private sector.


From West Point to Capitol Hill, from Walter Reed to the executive offices of a global defense company, Jason Pak will share lessons learned from navigating vastly different leadership environments. This inspiring session will explore resilience, adaptability, purpose-driven leadership, and the ability to lead through adversity. Attendees will gain insights into how service experiences can shape leadership principles that remain valuable throughout every stage of a career.


Meet the Presenter:

Jason Pak is Senior Director of Business Development, Land Systems at Hanwha Defense USA, where he leads strategic initiatives supporting the U.S. Army’s modernization efforts and strengthening the defense industrial base. Previously, Jason served as Senior Director of Government and Defense Affairs at Hanwha and as Virginia’s Deputy Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs. His distinguished career includes leadership roles at Boeing and service as a legislative fellow to Senator Jack Reed, where he contributed to national security and defense policy efforts. A U.S. Army veteran, Jason deployed to Afghanistan, where he was wounded in combat and later medically retired as a Captain. Jason holds degrees from Georgetown University and West Point. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a commitment to service, resilience, and leadership across sectors, inspiring others through his dedication to mission, community, and purpose.


Leadership Built Through Service and Purpose

Leadership is not defined by one role, industry, or title—it is built through the experiences that challenge us, shape us, and reveal our ability to adapt. The lessons learned through service, adversity, and change can become powerful foundations for leading others.


Join us at the 2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference for an inspiring conversation on resilience, transformation, and how leaders can carry purpose and service into every chapter of their professional journey.


2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference

Theme: Shaping What's Next: Influence. Innovation. Impact.


#ACELing2026 #ShapingWhatsNext #LeadershipAcrossSectors #VeteranLeadership #PurposeDrivenLeadership #ResilientLeadership #AAPILeadership #ACELNational #InfluenceInnovationImpact

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By ACEL National July 20, 2026
2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference Shaping What's Next: Influence. Innovation. Impact. August 13–14, 2026 | Omni Tempe Hotel | Tempe, Arizona SCHEDULE | TOPICS | SPEAKERS | REGISTRATION Digital Program Booklet
By ACEL National July 20, 2026
2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference Shaping What's Next: Influence. Innovation. Impact. August 13–14, 2026 | Omni Tempe Hotel | Tempe, Arizona SCHEDULE | TOPICS | SPEAKERS | REGISTRATION Digital Program Booklet
By ACEL National July 20, 2026
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