Equip Exposition announced its 2026 programming dedicated to women in the green industry. The show’s popular Women’s Leadership Reception will feature media trailblazer Susan Packard, as well as Judith Guido, who is recognized as one of the highest-ranking women in the green industry. The event, sponsored by Belgard, SiteOne and Hunter FX/Luminaire, will take place October 22 at 4 p.m.
“Our women’s programming offers a valuable opportunity to expand your network while engaging with influential women who are shaping and transforming the industry,” said Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), an international trade association which owns and manages the trade show.
Susan Packard, a media entrepreneur who helped create popular TV channels like HGTV, CNBC and Food Network, is one of the speakers for the Women’s Leadership Reception. “I will be sharing the one factor that makes all the difference for employees to be happy at work, with stories and examples from creating HGTV, one of the fastest-growing programming networks in history,” Packard says.
Fellow keynote speaker Judith Guido has spent her career building leading green industry companies, including taking one public on the NYSE. “Susan and I have both built executive careers in male dominated industries by delivering results and leading with resilience,” Guido says. “We’re passionate about and committed to helping women build careers and lives they never thought possible – through education, bold ideas, strong relationships, and smart problem solving – and we’re excited to share our insights, experiences and what it takes to grow, lead and win in business and the green industry.”
Previous participants consistently rank the Women’s Leadership Reception as a must-attend experience. “In a male-dominated industry, there’s something powerful about a room where women can sit across from each other and understand the struggle without saying a word,” says Sara Hey, President of Bob Clements International. “You don’t have to explain the context. You don’t have to translate. You just get to be in it together, learn from each other, and leave with a network of women who actually know what your day-to-day looks like. If you’re coming to Equip, don’t miss this one.”
For more about the Women’s Leadership Reception watch: https://youtu.be/xZV-MzX6_mo.