While Hayden-Murphy Equipment Company is a name synonymous with heavy iron and powerhouse brands like Manitowoc and Grove, its recent initiative proves the company is equally invested in the networking connections and relationships that drive the construction industry.
On Feb. 20, 2026, in backdrop of The Club at Golden Valley in Golden Valley, Minn., Hayden-Murphy played host to its first exclusive Executive Leadership Forum, bringing together top decision-makers for a day of high-level strategy, insight and professional development.
This event marked a significant pivot from traditional equipment showcases or open houses, instead focusing on economic outlook and managerial leadership challenges. As the industry grapples with shifting fiscal policies, evolving work culture and a tightening labor market, Hayden-Murphy stepped up to facilitate a much-needed dialogue.
Trifecta of Industry Insights
The forum featured a diverse lineup of speakers, each tackling a critical pillar of modern business management and industry application.
Darrel Mullenbach and David Olson of CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen): To kick start the event, partners of CLA opened the floor with a deep dive into tax management best practices. In an era of evolving tax codes, their insights provided attendees with actionable strategies to protect their bottom lines and optimize capital expenditures.
Chief U.S. Economist Scott Anderson of BMO: Providing the "big picture" view, Anderson tackled current economic outlook and market predictions. His session offered a nuanced breakdown of interest rate trajectories, economic trends and the persistent challenges of the modern workforce environment — two factors that remain top-of-mind for any fleet owner or project manager.
Steve Keating of Lead Today: Shifting the focus to internal dynamics, Keating explored the various levels of leadership. His presentation went beyond mere theory, providing real-life examples for navigating professional conflict and building personal resilience to extend team capabilities, collaboration and communication.
Total Site Solutions
After a delicious full-spread complimentary breakfast buffet, the atmosphere in Golden Valley was one of collaboration and productive networking. Partners and attendees were able to share personal perspectives and insights during scheduled breaks for ultimate collaboration over the course of the morning and into the early afternoon.
The success of the forum underscored a fundamental pillar about the host's philosophy and almost 70-year legacy: Hayden-Murphy is your complete partner that goes beyond equipment for total site solutions. By providing a platform for intellectual growth and financial foresight, the company has cemented its role as a consultant and advocate for its customers, rather than just a machinery provider.
Looking Ahead
The feedback from attendees was warm and positive — the forum provided well-received industry applications and insight that will resonate long after dismissal. But for Hayden-Murphy, this was only the beginning. Plans are already in motion for next year's event, with a promise to go even bigger and better.
Expect an expanded roster of experts and familiar favorites with even more opportunities to connect with the leaders shaping our future of the construction and heavy equipment sectors. The Hayden-Murphy Executive Leadership Forum has all the potential to become an essential fixture on the industry calendar.
"Our goal is to provide additional value and support through a mutually-beneficial collaborative forum where industry leaders can explore honest discussions and conversation," said Jeff Clarke, CEO of Hayden-Murphy.
Details for the 2027 forum will be provided in the coming months for registration and event opportunities.
For more information, visit hayden-murphy.com. CEG
