AUSA 2026: Three Days of Service, Leadership, and Connection
The Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting and Exposition brought together Soldiers, Army Civilians, senior leaders, industry partners, and military professionals for three days of professional development, innovation, and networking. Throughout the event, the Adjutant General's Corps Regimental Association (AGCRA) National Executive Council (NEC) and Potomac Chapter proudly represented the AG Corps, demonstrating the importance of service, mentorship, and professional engagement.
While AUSA provided opportunities to explore emerging technologies, participate in leadership discussions, and gain insight into the Army's future, the AGCRA kiosk served as a place for members of the Army Human Resources community to connect, exchange ideas, and strengthen professional relationships.
Day 1: Setting the Stage for Service
AUSA 2026 kicked off with excitement as thousands of attendees gathered to explore the latest Army initiatives and professional development opportunities. Among the day's highlights was the dedication of NEC and AGCRA Potomac Chapter volunteers serving as ambassadors at the AGCRA kiosk.
Throughout the day, volunteers welcomed visitors, answered questions, promoted membership opportunities, and shared the benefits of becoming involved with AGCRA. Their efforts highlighted the importance of giving back to the profession while building connections with Soldiers, Civilians, and leaders from across the force.
The first day set the tone for a week centered on service, professionalism, and strengthening the AG community.
Day 2: Strengthening Partnerships and Professional Connections
The momentum continued into Day 2 as NEC and Potomac Chapter volunteers remained actively engaged with AUSA attendees. The kiosk provided opportunities to reconnect with fellow AG professionals, welcome prospective members, and discuss leadership development, mentorship, and the future of Army Human Resources.
Beyond the convention floor, professional networking continued through engagements with leaders and fellow military professionals. A special thank-you goes to the CSU leadership for extending an invitation to their no-host social and for their continued sponsorship and support of the AGCRA community.
These interactions reinforced the value of maintaining relationships beyond daily military responsibilities. Whether through membership, mentorship, or professional collaboration, every conversation contributed to a stronger and more connected AG Corps.
Day 3: Closing Strong and Celebrating Our Volunteers
The final day of AUSA 2026 brought another opportunity to reflect on the importance of leadership, innovation, and service across the Army.
As attendees participated in the remaining professional development forums, senior leader engagements, and industry exhibits, NEC and Potomac Chapter volunteers continued their commitment to representing the AG Corps.
Over three days, these ambassadors dedicated their time to supporting membership engagement, sharing professional development opportunities, and strengthening relationships across the Total Force.
Their contributions demonstrated that volunteering at AUSA extends far beyond staffing a kiosk. It is an investment in the people and professional organizations that support Soldiers and Army readiness every day.
A Lasting Impact: People, Partnerships, and Purpose
Although AUSA is widely recognized for its exhibits, technology, and strategic discussions, the relationships built throughout the event remain among its greatest benefits.
The AGCRA NEC and Potomac Chapter volunteers embodied the spirit of Shields Up: People, Partnerships, and Purpose by giving their time, sharing their experiences, and helping others discover opportunities to become more involved in the AG community.
A sincere thank-you to every volunteer who supported the kiosk, every attendee who stopped by, and every leader and partner who continues to invest in the growth of our profession.
As AUSA 2026 comes to a close, the Potomac Chapter looks forward to building on these connections and continuing its commitment to professional development, mentorship, and service. AUSA 2026 may be complete, but our commitment to the AG Corps continues. Shields Up!
AUSA No-Host Social: Food, Fellowship, and Connection
The AGCRA Potomac Chapter continued the spirit of fellowship and networking with the AUSA No-Host Social, held on October 15, 2026, at Yardbird Southern Table & Bar in Washington, D.C.
Hosted on the ground by the Potomac Chapter in support of AUSA and the AGCRA community, the gathering provided an opportunity for Soldiers, Army Civilians, AG professionals, and partners to connect in a relaxed setting following a busy week of professional engagements.
Centered on food, fellowship, and connection, the event encouraged attendees to strengthen existing relationships, make new professional connections, and enjoy time together outside the convention center.
The social reflected the spirit of AGCRA's Shields Up initiative, bringing people together, strengthening partnerships, and reinforcing the shared purpose that connects our AG community.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped close out AUSA week with camaraderie and fellowship. Until next year, Shields Up!