November 5-7, 2025 |
Columbus, OH

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EDchannels Symposium (EDS)

EDchannels Symposium:

Navigating Economic Uncertainty: Strategic Outlook for Education Dealers & Manufacturers 

Featuring a Service Provider Vendor Fair Luncheon
November 4, 2025, 12:30-4:30 PM 

The EDchannels Symposium (EDS) is a dynamic half-day event designed specifically for dealers and manufacturers serving the education market. Combining market intelligence with practical networking, EDS helps sales leaders and senior management chart new service goals, explore fresh strategies, and navigate today’s changing economic landscape with confidence. 

New this year: Vendor Fair Luncheon 
Kick off the day by connecting with leading service providers, buying cooperatives, and distribution partners during our Vendor Fair Luncheon. Grab lunch while exploring practical solutions and programs that can support your growth in the education sector. 

Featured Speaker: Kermit Baker, Chief Economist, American Institute of Architects 
Kermit will deliver a two-part presentation that delivers deep insights into the forces shaping your business in 2025: 

  • Part One: Understanding the Economic Climate 
    Get an informed overview of how recent shifts — tariff increases, changing immigration policies, and evolving federal budget priorities — are impacting supply chains, labor markets, and institutional spending in the education space. 
  • Part Two: Thriving in an Uncertain Market 
    Discover how construction decision-makers are adapting to current economic challenges, and what it means for capital projects, renovations, and purchasing cycles in education. Learn how to assess market risk, identify emerging opportunities, and better align your sales and service strategies with the realities of today’s buying environment. 

Additional Highlights: 

  • Vendor Spotlights: Short, solution-focused presentations from select vendors offering tools and services to support your business. 
  • Interactive Q&A and Peer Dialogue: Wrap up the day with a facilitated discussion featuring Kermit Baker and industry peers — sharing actionable insights and strengthening your professional network. 

 

You’ll leave with fresh perspectives, practical takeaways, and new connections to support your continued success in the education channel. 

FEE:

EDmarket Members: $26

Nonmembers: $103

Please note that registration is limited to distributors, suppliers and independent manufacturer’s representatives.

EDchannels Symposium content developed by the EDmarket Distribution Council

About the Speaker

Kermit Baker, Chief Economist, The American Institute of Architects

Kermit Baker is the Chief Economist for the American Institute of Architects in Washington, D.C.  In this capacity, he analyzes business and construction trends for the U.S. economy and examines their impact on AIA members and the architectural profession.  He originated the AIA’s “Work on the Boards” Survey, a monthly assessment of business conditions at architecture firms and the source of the widely followed Architecture Billings Index. He also coordinates the AIA Consensus Construction Forecast Panel and writes regular economics columns for the AIA member electronic newspaper, AIArchitect.
Prior to joining the AIA, Kermit was Vice President and Director of the Economics Department at Reed Business Information, where he was responsible for industry forecasting. Kermit received his master’s degree in urban planning from Harvard University and holds a Ph.D. from Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the same field.  In 2002, Kermit was made an honorary member of the American Institute of Architects, and in 2006 was selected to the NAHB National Remodeling Hall of Fame.