Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW) announced Tuesday Kim “KC” Campbell, a decorated fighter pilot and senior military leader, as the keynote speaker for HDAW 2025.
Renowned for her leadership in high-stakes situations, organizers say Campbell will share strategies on leading with courage and fostering teamwork—skills essential for driving success in today’s evolving aftermarket industry. HDAW 2025 will take place Jan. 20-23, 2025, at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center.
Campbell’s presentation, titled “Fighter Pilot Mindset: Courageous Leadership and Teamwork to Elevate Performance,” will provide attendees with strategies for navigating adversity and building resilient teams. Drawing from her military experience, including a combat mission in which her A-10 aircraft was hit by enemy fire, Campbell will offer actionable lessons on leading through uncertainty and driving teams toward peak performance. Her keynote will provide valuable strategies for leaders in the heavy-duty aftermarket industry who are adapting to a fast-changing business environment.
“KC Campbell’s experience in challenging situations offers powerful lessons that align with the constant demands and pressures we face in the heavy duty aftermarket,” says Jean Gregoire, group president of Marmon Heavy Duty Brakes Group and HDAW supplier co-chair. “Her message of resilience and leadership through adversity is sure to inspire our attendees as they navigate their own challenges and opportunities.”
Campbell’s keynote will take place during the Opening General Session on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025, from 7:45 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. CT. The session will also feature the TPS Distributor of the Year award presentation and the Hall of Fame induction, led by the HDAW co-chairs.
In addition to Campbell’s keynote, HDAW also will debut the new Women in Leadership Award, designed to recognize and celebrate the outstanding achievements and contributions of women leaders within the commercial vehicle aftermarket sector.
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This award honors women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, innovation and a commitment to advancing the industry through their roles. It highlights their strategic vision, influence and dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.
“The Women in Leadership Award is an exciting new initiative for HDAW 2025, showcasing our commitment to recognizing diverse leadership within the industry,” says Michael Keller, vice president of Category Management & Sourcing at FleetPride and HDAW distributor co-chair. “It recognizes women who are not only leading with innovation within their organizations but also paving the way for future generations.”
Nominations for the Women in Leadership Award are being accepted through Dec. 15, 2024, and the winner will be honored during the HDAW Opening General Session. Nominees should be women in the heavy-duty aftermarket industry who demonstrate visionary leadership, a commitment to their teams and a history of driving significant industry achievements. To submit nominations, visit the HDAW website.
