USN Commander Kirk Lippold to Keynote SBFX 2025
Delivering a message on the pillars of leadership, the retired U.S. Navy officer on the U.S.S. Cole will share strategies to instill integrity into team members and mitigate crises.
Lippold's speech will take place Monday evening, September 22, over dinner at SBFX.
Photo: SBF Canva
School Bus Fleet is excited to announce our 2025 SBFX keynote speaker! Commander Kirk Lippold will take the stage at the upcoming School Bus Fleet Exchange (SBFX).
Commander Lippold's speech will happen during the opening dinner keynote the evening of Monday, Sept. 22.
About the Speaker
Commander Kirk Lippold, USN, was the commanding officer of the USS Cole when it came under a suicide terrorist attack by al Qaeda in the port of Aden, Yemen, in October 2000. During his command, he and his crew distinguished themselves by saving the American war ship from sinking. This event is thought of as one of the most brazen acts of terrorism by al Qaeda prior to September 11, 2001.
5 Reasons Not to Miss SBFX 2025
Today, Commander Lippold is a popular inspirational figure and speaker. And at a time when everything we’ve come to know is being reshaped by international events and political dynamics, Commander Lippold reveals how to lead teams and manage challenges successfully in the face of financial, national security, and global uncertainties.
A compelling storyteller, Commander Lippold draws upon his "Pillars of Leadership" to offer strategies he learned and applied to instill integrity into his team members and mitigate crises throughout his naval career. With takeaways on assessing successes and failures to prepare for what the future may hold, his lessons can make the difference when it matters most.
About SBFX
This event is not your typical conference and trade show. SBFX convenes September 22-24 in Scottsdale, Arizona. The event allows pupil transportation professionals to meet and network with like-minded peers to build relationships, learn, and grow together.
School bus operators (district employees and contractors) who qualify will receive a grant to attend for free. This includes roundtrip economy coach airfare to Phoenix, a two-night hotel stay, ground transfers from the Phoenix airport to the resort, and all scheduled meals.
Seats are still open, but are filling up fast. Please join us!
Operators can apply here. Supplier hosts can learn more here.
Read About Last Year: School Bus Pros Gather in Arizona for Education & Networking: SBFX 2024 Recap
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