2025 GCCA Convention
General Sessions
Tuesday, September 16
Opening General Session & Breakfast | 8:15 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Keynote Presentation: Return of the Economist
In this presentation, Dr. Basu offers detailed discussions regarding, global, national, and regional economic performance using the most current data available. Special attention is devoted to certain aspects of economic life, including the performance of financial, labor, real estate, and construction markets.
Anirban Basu | Chairman & CEO of Sage Policy Group & Economic Forecasting Expert
Dr. Anirban Basu is Chairman & CEO of Sage Policy Group and one of the nation’s leading economists, advising top organizations across sectors including construction, banking, real estate, and government. He has served in prominent roles such as Chair of the Maryland Economic Development Commission and Chief Economist for several major associations, including to Associated Builders and Contractors. A dynamic speaker known for blending deep economic insight with engaging commentary, Dr. Basu has been repeatedly recognized as one of Maryland’s most influential and powerful business leaders.
Wednesday, September 17
General Session | 9:00 a.m. - 10: 0 a.m.
Keynote: Who Hacks, Who Wins - Managing Cyber Security
Gain a detailed understanding of the cyber threat and proven strategies and approaches for managing cyber risk in your organization. From criminals to nation state sponsored attacks, modern adversaries are targeting your networks, your data, and your people. Understand the tactics they are using and effective cyber defense countermeasures you can deploy today to thwart the attackers of tomorrow.
Matthew Devost | CEO of OODA LLC, Technologist, Entrepreneur, and Expert Hacker
Matt Devost is a renowned technologist, entrepreneur, and international security expert with over 25 years of leadership in cybersecurity, counterterrorism, and global risk management. As CEO and Co-Founder of OODA LLC and founder of the Hack Factory, he guides organizations in navigating complex security and technology challenges while fostering innovation and strategic resilience.
Closing General Session | 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Closing Keynote: Confronting the Reality of Change
When change comes at us from every direction, it can feel like our only option is to play defense. “Not so,” says Geoff Colvin of Fortune. “The best leaders I’ve reported on have found ways to embrace a world of continuous disruption and build a powerful competitive advantage in the process.” Geoff is optimistic about the future as he unpacks step-by-step how we can all respond faster to change and even get ahead of it as individuals, teams, and enterprises. Geoff provides actionable takeaways to help leaders face change smarter.
Geoff Colvin | Fortune Senior Editor-At-Large
Geoff Colvin, longtime Fortune editor and bestselling author, is one of business journalism’s sharpest voices on leadership, innovation, and the forces transforming the global economy. Drawing on decades of reporting and direct access to top CEOs and policymakers, Geoff reveals how winning organizations confront reality, embrace change, and invest in the future.
Focus Sessions
Tuesday, September 16
3:00 - 3:45 p.m.
Economic Landscape and How it is Impacting Food Consumption and Production Trends
From Surplus to Solution: Cold Chain Collaboration in Latin America
Extending Warehouse Life: Automation, Technology, and Capital Upgrades
4:00 - 4:15 p.m.
Securing the Warehouse: Cybersecurity Breach Protocols and Best Practice Refresh
Advancing Sustainability in Cold Chain Operations: Metrics That Matter
Supply Chain Evolutions that Impact your Bottom Line: Electrification, Carbon Credits, and Clean Energy Incentives
Wednesday, September 17
10:15 - 11:00 a.m.
Facility Construction Insights
Cold Chain Trade: Connecting U.S. Exporters to Global Markets
AI: Exploring Opportunities, Potential Dangers and Streamlining Redundant Processes to Increase Efficiencies
11:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Insurance Market Update: Trends, Claims & Lessons Learned
Changing Nature of Costs in the Cold Chain
Cold Chain Café
Tuesday, September 16
10:15 - 11:00 a.m.
The Cold Chain Café is a roundtable discussion component of the program where attendees will participate in valuable dialogue with their peers. Participants will engage in up to 3 fast-paced, 25-minute discussions and choose from over 14 different topics. Additional information available soon!
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