In a financial services environment marked by peaks and valleys, credit union professionals can’t afford to rely on outdated strategies. The 2025 Catalyst Strategic Summit offers a timely, transformative experience for credit union leaders looking to stay ahead of the curve. Set against the backdrop of Lost Pines Resort & Spa near Austin, Texas, the event unfolds over 2.5 immersive days, October 21-23, equipping attendees with the tools, trends and connections needed to navigate what’s next.

Whether you’re an established executive or an emerging leader in your credit union, this elevated experience delivers practical value that extends far beyond the typical conference.

An experience that elevates

Strategic Summit was intentionally designed to combine high-level insights with actionable takeaways. This year’s agenda focuses on three pillars: understanding the current economic climate, exploring cutting-edge technology, like AI, and advancing leadership capabilities across all levels of credit union operations. 

One 2024 Summit attendee noted the strong line-up of speakers, especially the in-depth analysis of payment collection technology trends. 

The event goes beyond relevant session content, it enables attendees to engage with experts, ask relevant questions and find solutions for their credit union’s specific challenges.

Insights gained

One of the most talked-about aspects of Summit are economic insights. Experts like Catalyst’s VP of Asset Management, Steven Houle, provide real-time analysis of inflation, liquidity, interest rate expectations and the Federal Reserve’s role. Past attendees shared that these sessions helped them rethink liquidity strategies and update internal planning to stay resilient amid economic uncertainty.

Summit also offers clarity on how artificial intelligence is reshaping financial services. Far from theoretical, sessions will explore how credit unions are using AI right now – from fraud detection and member service automation to back-office efficiencies. 

“Great presentations by Dr. Golbeck and Geoff Colvin,” said a guest from Austin Telco FCU. 

An executive from Neighbors FCU stated that he found “the discussions related to new emerging technologies (AI) very informative and timely.” 

In addition to economic and payments content, Summit focuses on leadership growth. Through interactive panels, breakout discussions and mentorship-style conversations, attendees will explore how to lead with purpose.

Networking beyond the event

Beyond the power-packed agenda, Strategic Summit’s value often comes in the form of hallway conversations, roundtable discussions and informal meetups. Professionals connect with peers from across the country, exchanging ideas, challenges and best practices in an open, collaborative environment. Past attendees noted that relationships formed at the Summit led to partnership opportunities that extended well beyond the conference. 

“This was a fabulous conference. Likely, it was the best conference I have been a part of with great networking opportunities and presentations on relevant topics,” said another attendee from Centric Credit Union in 2024.

Who should attend

Summit isn’t limited to C-level attendees, it’s curated for credit union professionals at all stages of leadership. From branch managers and department heads to IT strategists and marketing leaders, anyone with a drive to grow – personally and professionally – can find value in the experience. 

Why it matters

Strategic Summit continues to prove that credit union leaders are hungry for more than just updates – they want real-world strategies, peer exchange and inspiration they can act on. 

As one attendee put it, “This wasn’t a download of ideas. It was a roadmap I can use.”

If you’re looking to sharpen your strategy, build your network and position yourself for long-term impact, this is the event for you. Register and mark your calendar today!