Step Into Leadership with JFLAC
The James Jerger Future Leaders of Audiology Conference (JFLAC) is the Academy’s premier program for audiologists ready to move the profession forward. It’s built for those aiming to elevate their careers, broaden their impact, and step confidently into leadership roles. Through immersive learning, meaningful dialogue, and practical leadership training, attendees gain the tools and perspective to lead with purpose both in the clinic and across the profession.
2026 JFLAC will take place Thursday, September 17-Saturday, September 19, 2026 at the Academy headquarters in Reston, Virginia.
Sponsored by
Congratulations to the JFLAC Class of 2026
A Proven Pathway to Leadership: JFLAC
Recognizing the need to develop future leaders of the profession of audiology, Academy leadership launched the Future Leaders of Audiology Conference (FLAC) in September 2008. The conference has been held biennially since that time and was renamed in 2012 to honor the leadership of one of the Academy’s founders and its first president, Dr. James Jerger.
Since its inception, JFLAC has been highly successful, with more than 95 percent of attendees taking on leadership roles in the Academy and other audiology organizations. JFLAC graduates have served as Academy committee chairs, council chairs, members of the boards of Academy partner organizations, and have been elected to serve on the Academy Board of Directors.
Maria Pomponio, AuD
JFLAC Class of 2022
"JFLAC 2022 was undoubtedly the best experience of my career thus far. My JFLAC classmates quickly became my friends and support system, always ready to lend their expertise and advice well beyond the few days we spent together. I was—and still am—continually inspired by them."
Jessica Messersmith, PhD
JFLAC Class of 2018
"The relationships built during JFLAC make me excited to attend conventions each year, they engage me in the Academy, they push me to stretch farther and do more for my profession, but most importantly they encourage me to keep working because our future is brighter if we work collectively and collaboratively."
Bre Myers, AuD, PhD
JFLAC Class of 2012
"It is hard to believe that I attended over a decade ago, and am happy that this program continues to recruit passionate audiologists and help train them to assume leadership positions within the academy and also their careers."
Brenna Carroll, AuD
JFLAC Class of 2010
"Attending JFLAC imparted the value and necessity of national volunteers who reflect the “average” clinical audiologist. JFLAC taught me that I had potential to be a leader and provided me with tools and opportunities to develop skills to seek new challenges for the second half of my career."