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.
If you’re ready to grow your influence and help shape the future of audiology, this is where your next chapter begins.
2026 JFLAC will take place Thursday, September 17-Saturday, September 19, 2026 at the Academy headquarters in Reston, Virginia.
The call for applications is now OPEN!
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following criteria to apply for JFLAC:
- Are current Academy members
- Possess at least of four (4) years of professional experience (not including externship year)
- Eager to be a part of a diverse and dynamic cohort within the Academy
Participation Options and Application
JFLAC offers two application options for prospective participants. Please review the details below and click the button to apply.
The application consists of four (4) short essay questions and an electronic recommendation form completed by one (1) recommender.
Applications and recommendation forms are due Wednesday, June 24 at 11:59 PM Eastern. Notifications will be made mid-July.
Option 1 — Standard JFLAC Program
No Cost
- Attend the full 2.5‑day JFLAC program in Reston, Virginia
- Most meals, lodging, and travel covered for selected participants
Option 2 — JFLAC + Leadership Advancement Package
$950*
Includes everything in Option 1 plus:
- Enrollment in the new online Academy Leadership Training Program (LEAP) which includes:
- 9 CEUs
- ABA Microcredential
- Registration for AAA 2027
- Attend a dedicated JFLAC mentoring session at AAA 2027, where participants will:
- Meet with experienced mentors
- Begin developing a personalized leadership plan
- Participants will have the option to present their personalized plans either virtually or in-person at AAA 2028
*Payment will be due only if you are selected to participate in 2026 JFLAC.
Why Attend JFLAC?
Selected participants will experience:
Leadership Skill Development – Build the tools and confidence to lead effectively in a rapidly evolving field.
Networking That Lasts – Connect with peers, mentors, and thought leaders who share your passion for audiology.
A Community of Future Leaders – Join a growing network of professionals committed to shaping the future of balance and hearing health care.
"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."
Maria Pomponio, AuD
JFLAC Class of 2022
JFLAC has proven successful.
JFLAC has been highly successful, with more than 95 percent of the 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 Board of Directors of Academy partner organizations, and elected to serve on the Academy Board of Directors.
Where Are JFLAC Graduates Now?
Find out what past graduates have been up to and how their experiences from the conference put them on a path of leadership.
“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.”
Brenna Carroll, AuD
JFLAC Class of 2010
“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.”
Jessica Messersmith, PhD
JFLAC Class of 2018
"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.”
Bre Myers, AuD, PhD
JFLAC Class of 2012
Conference History
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.