Breakthrough Technologies

One theme we've heard throughout ASAE MMC + Tech is that belonging doesn't happen by accident.

Whether the conversation is about membership, communications, AI, or digital strategy, the organizations seeing the strongest engagement are intentionally creating experiences that help people feel connected, valued, and supported.

Technology plays a role, but it's not the goal. The goal is helping members find what they need, participate more easily, and build stronger connections with their professional community.

It's been encouraging to hear so many association leaders focusing on people first and using technology to support that work.

Let's keep the conversation going! Booth 263.

Morning sessions at ASAE MMC+Tech 2026 are done and one thing is already clear: it's a great time to be in the association space! 🙌
Keynote speaker Princess Castleberry challenged leaders to integrate technology with discipline as AI moves fast, and that message wove through every session of the morning.
A few things that landed:
📄 Your big reports are invisible to AI search. Breaking them into smaller, accessible pieces isn't just good strategy, it's how you stay findable in a world where people ask AI instead of Googling.
🎙️ Members aren't just reading anymore. They want to read, watch, and listen. 158 million people tune into podcasts monthly, and 64% trust podcast hosts more than social media influencers. If your association isn't in audio, you're missing a lane.
🤖 Only 13% of associations have formal AI policies. We're adopting faster than we're governing. Simple, clear guidelines aren't a blocker. They're what makes responsible innovation possible.
📱 Apps command 90% of screen time. If your member is on their phone browsing the web, they're in an app, not a browser. Meet them there.
Still a full afternoon ahead and we're here all day! Come find us at booth 263 and let's talk about what you're taking back to your team. 👋

🌱 It's Arbor Day, and we have something exciting to share!

Cleveland Metroparks’ mission is rooted in protecting nature, connecting people to the outdoors, and helping communities care for the natural world around them.

Their new how-to guide on planting trees is a great example of that mission in action. Whether someone is an experienced gardener or planting their first tree, this resource gives residents practical, approachable guidance they can use to make a lasting impact in their own yards and neighborhoods.

We’re proud to support work that helps Cleveland Metroparks extend its educational reach, inspire stewardship, and make conservation more accessible to the community.

A big shoutout to everyone who helped bring this guide to life. It looks fantastic! 🙌

👉 Check it out: https://treeselector-clevelandmetroparks.com/how-plant-tree

When your team is juggling platforms, updates, and limited resources, every inefficiency adds up.
The right foundation makes all the difference.

We have a very special shoutout to share today! 🎊

Eric Kirsner is celebrating 14 years with Breakthrough Technologies, and we couldn't be more thankful to have him.

As one of our Principal Software Engineers, Eric is super smart, dependable, and genuinely one of the best people you'll ever work with. He's the kind of teammate who makes hard problems look manageable and makes the whole team better just by being in the room.

Eric, 14 years is a big deal, and we're so glad you've been part of this journey with us. Congratulations! 🥳