Salt Lake City, UT — The Climbing Wall Association (CWA) is preparing for one of its most dynamic gatherings yet as the 2026 CWA Summit approaches, bringing together climbing gym operators, industry leaders, and professionals from across the climbing industry.
Now just six weeks away, this year’s Summit is shaping up to be a landmark event focused on education, collaboration, and the continued evolution of climbing gyms. Attendees can expect a robust lineup of sessions, networking opportunities, and an expanded exhibit hall showcasing the latest innovations in climbing facility operations, programming, and design.
Participants planning to attend are encouraged to secure accommodations soon. The Summit’s official hotel, the Radisson, is offering a discounted room block that closes March 17. After that date, reduced rates are not guaranteed. The show hotel is located just steps from the Summit’s exhibit hall and education rooms, making it the most convenient option for attendees who want to stay close to the event’s programming and networking opportunities.
CWA also announced the keynote speakers for the 2026 Summit, highlighting leaders who are helping shape the future of climbing gyms from the inside out. These speakers will provide insights on industry growth, leadership, and the evolving role of climbing facilities within their communities.
Renee DeAngelis – Gym Owners
Former multi-site gym CEO turned executive coach, Renee shares how to build leadership teams that complement your strengths, close your blind spots, and scale with alignment.
Mo Beck – Managers
Paraclimbing World Champion and industry advocate, Mo explores how gyms can inspire people of all abilities to climb for life, not just for a season.
Yusuf Daneshyar – Future Owners
Climb So iLL co-founder Yusuf unpacks what it really takes to build not just a facility, but a climbing community with cultural gravity.
Lance Hadfield – Routesetters
With three decades at the forefront of professional routesetting, Lance reflects on how setting has evolved — and where the craft is headed next.
Chris Wall – Coaches
Veteran coach and performance expert Chris Wall shares lessons from 30 years of athlete development along with what the next era of coaching demands
Register for Keynotes
More About the 2026 CWA Summit
What’s New This Year?
We’ve tuned the format to help you get more value without having to juggle your schedule.
- 5 Track-Specific Keynotes: Each education track now features its own keynote — focused, relevant, and built for the conversations that matter most to your role.
- No Overlapping Sessions Within Tracks: Follow a single track start to finish without having to choose between two sessions you both want.
- Earlier Wednesday Start: More time for connection, more time for content.
- The Tuesday Kickoff Party is Back! Consider this your unofficial first session. Community, reconnection, and momentum from the start. Plus, you can skip the lines at the show and fast track your badge check-in during the kickoff party.
Get ahead of the game and sign your waiver here
Education Tracks: Built for Depth
This year’s programming is structured around five focused tracks. Plus, we’ve removed overlapping sessions within each track, meaning no more scheduling conflicts.
- Business & Administration
- Customer Experience
- Coaching & Programs
- Routesetting
- Startups & Expansion
- Pre Conference Certifications – separate from the main CWA Summit days, and only a few spots available! Register now to save your spot.
View Full Education Schedule
CBJ press releases are written by the sponsor and do not represent the views of the Climbing Business Journal editorial team.
