TFPA Conference 2026 - Speaker Bios
Keynote Speaker
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SUMMARY
In high-stress situations, pressure is constant, burnout is rising, and far too many leaders are just trying to survive the day. But what if the real battle isn’t happening around you, it’s happening between your ears? After two decades in law enforcement, Michael Laidler knows what it means to lead under extreme pressure. But it wasn’t just the tactical challenges or the uniform that shaped him, it was the silent battles in the moments when people looked to him for answers to impossible situations. Learning to quiet the noise between his ears built a mindset of resilience, purpose, and transformation. In this powerful keynote, Michael equips leaders and teams with a mental framework to shift from survival mode to sustainable performance. Drawing from his Failure F.U.E.L.S. Growth philosophy, he shows how setbacks can become springboards, and how purpose can outlast pressure when the right mindset is in place. This keynote isn’t just motivational, it’s strategic and actionable. Attendees will leave with proven tools to reframe failure, lead with clarity, and build cultures that thrive, even when the heat is on. |
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BACKGROUND
Michael Laidler is a leadership keynote speaker and resilience speaker with more than 20 years of experience leading in high pressure law enforcement and federal leadership roles. Through his battle tested Failure F.U.E.L.S. Growth framework, Michael equips leaders and organizations to use pressure as fuel for resilience, clarity, and long term performance. Drawing from lived experience, research, and executive leadership training, Michael helps organizations lead under pressure, sharpen decision making, navigate uncertainty, and boost productivity.
Michael Laidler is a leadership keynote speaker and resilience speaker with more than 20 years of experience leading in high pressure law enforcement and federal leadership roles. Through his battle tested Failure F.U.E.L.S. Growth framework, Michael equips leaders and organizations to use pressure as fuel for resilience, clarity, and long term performance. Drawing from lived experience, research, and executive leadership training, Michael helps organizations lead under pressure, sharpen decision making, navigate uncertainty, and boost productivity.
Other Speakers
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Powering Texas Forward: The regulatory response to Winter Storm Uri & our thirst for double the power by 2030. SUMMARY
This presentation presented by Jared Patterson of Able Power Management will explore how Texas regulators have responded to the challenges revealed by Winter Storm Uri. It will examine the state’s evolving energy landscape and discuss strategies and policies designed to meet Texas’s rapidly growing demand for electricity, which is projected to double by 2030. Attendees will gain insights into current and future initiatives shaping the reliability and capacity of Texas’s power grid. |
Jared Patterson
Executive Vice President at Able Power Management and State Representative in Texas House District 106 Presentation: May 20th @ 2:15 PM - 3:00 PM |
BACKGROUND
Texas State Representative Jared Patterson has dedicated 20 years to the energy sector and 15 years to serving the public. Jared joined Able Power Management as Executive Vice President in 2023 and brings a diverse skillset and wealth of knowledge to his customers. Recognizing that each client’s energy needs are unique, he takes a personalized approach to energy consulting. He invests time and effort into understanding his clients’ goals, challenges, and industry-specific requirements. Armed with this knowledge, Jared crafts innovative and tailored energy solutions that not only optimize efficiency but also align with their clients’ broader business objectives.
Jared has held leadership roles in local and state government. He is currently the State Representative in Texas House District 106. Previously, he served on his local city council. Jared has also volunteered his time with The Energy Professionals Association (past president, vice president, and secretary), Texas Cast Metals Association (past chairman), and North Texas Association of Energy Engineers (past chairman, vice chairman, and secretary). Jared is married to his A&M college sweetheart Leslie and is a proud father to three children.
Texas State Representative Jared Patterson has dedicated 20 years to the energy sector and 15 years to serving the public. Jared joined Able Power Management as Executive Vice President in 2023 and brings a diverse skillset and wealth of knowledge to his customers. Recognizing that each client’s energy needs are unique, he takes a personalized approach to energy consulting. He invests time and effort into understanding his clients’ goals, challenges, and industry-specific requirements. Armed with this knowledge, Jared crafts innovative and tailored energy solutions that not only optimize efficiency but also align with their clients’ broader business objectives.
Jared has held leadership roles in local and state government. He is currently the State Representative in Texas House District 106. Previously, he served on his local city council. Jared has also volunteered his time with The Energy Professionals Association (past president, vice president, and secretary), Texas Cast Metals Association (past chairman), and North Texas Association of Energy Engineers (past chairman, vice chairman, and secretary). Jared is married to his A&M college sweetheart Leslie and is a proud father to three children.
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Coffee Science: From Research Lab to Coffee Cup SUMMARY
This workshop will provide an overview of the global coffee industry while highlighting the role Texas A&M plays in the international coffee arena through research, education, and industry engagement. Participants will gain insight into current initiatives that support innovation, workforce development, and collaboration across the coffee value chain. The session will also introduce key concepts in coffee chemistry and the impact of processing on chemical composition, flavor development, and final product quality. As a concluding component, participants will be introduced to standardized coffee sensory protocols through a guided cupping experience, followed by coffee-inspired cocktails that demonstrate applied flavor concepts and beverage innovation. |
Eric Brenner
Assistant Director at the Center for Coffee Research and Education Presentation: May 20th @ 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM |
BACKGROUND
Eric Brenner is the Assistant Director of the Center for Coffee Research and Education at Texas A&M University, where he oversees academic programming, manages project operations, supports proposal development, and cultivates external partnerships. With more than 15 years of experience in international agricultural development, he specializes in coffee value chain development, food systems, and capacity building. Since 2014, he has also served as Program Coordinator for Latin America and the Caribbean, leading program design, implementation, and donor engagement across the region. He has managed multi-country projects funded by USDA, USAID, and the U.S. Department of State, including coordinating Center programs and managing USDA’s SAFE Agriculture/Food Export Program in the Dominican Republic, and has delivered technical training for international audiences. He has taught university-level courses in coffee production, processing, and trade, and helped develop the first undergraduate coffee certificate program in the United States. Building on this integration of research, education, and practice, Eric is pursuing a PhD in Food Science and Technology at Texas A&M under Dr. Steve Talcott, focusing on analytical methods to detect externally added flavor compounds in coffee.
Jared has held leadership roles in local and state government. He is currently the State Representative in Texas House District 106. Previously, he served on his local city council. Jared has also volunteered his time with The Energy Professionals Association (past president, vice president, and secretary), Texas Cast Metals Association (past chairman), and North Texas Association of Energy Engineers (past chairman, vice chairman, and secretary). Jared is married to his A&M college sweetheart Leslie and is a proud father to three children.
Eric Brenner is the Assistant Director of the Center for Coffee Research and Education at Texas A&M University, where he oversees academic programming, manages project operations, supports proposal development, and cultivates external partnerships. With more than 15 years of experience in international agricultural development, he specializes in coffee value chain development, food systems, and capacity building. Since 2014, he has also served as Program Coordinator for Latin America and the Caribbean, leading program design, implementation, and donor engagement across the region. He has managed multi-country projects funded by USDA, USAID, and the U.S. Department of State, including coordinating Center programs and managing USDA’s SAFE Agriculture/Food Export Program in the Dominican Republic, and has delivered technical training for international audiences. He has taught university-level courses in coffee production, processing, and trade, and helped develop the first undergraduate coffee certificate program in the United States. Building on this integration of research, education, and practice, Eric is pursuing a PhD in Food Science and Technology at Texas A&M under Dr. Steve Talcott, focusing on analytical methods to detect externally added flavor compounds in coffee.
Jared has held leadership roles in local and state government. He is currently the State Representative in Texas House District 106. Previously, he served on his local city council. Jared has also volunteered his time with The Energy Professionals Association (past president, vice president, and secretary), Texas Cast Metals Association (past chairman), and North Texas Association of Energy Engineers (past chairman, vice chairman, and secretary). Jared is married to his A&M college sweetheart Leslie and is a proud father to three children.
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Legislative Update SUMMARY
In this session, Martin Hahn of Hogan Lovells will provide an update on recent legislative and regulatory developments impacting the U.S. and Texas food industry. Attendees will learn about key policy changes, compliance requirements, and emerging legal trends affecting food processors in Texas and beyond. This presentation will help industry professionals stay informed and prepared for the evolving legislative landscape. |
Martin Hahn
Partner Global Regulatory, Hogan Lovells Presentation: May 21st @ 8:30 AM - 9:15 AM |
BACKGROUND
Martin Hahn is a partner at Hogan Lovells with a background in food technology and deep expertise in food industry regulations. Drawing on his hands-on experience growing up on a farm and working in food processing plants, Martin brings practical insight to the legal and regulatory challenges facing the food industry from farm to table. He is highly regarded for his comprehensive understanding of the laws governing foods, dietary supplements, infant formulas, medical foods, and products for special dietary use.
Martin helps clients navigate issues ranging from new ingredient authorizations and manufacturing requirements to labeling, advertising, product recalls, and regulatory enforcement. Known for his innovative problem-solving, he provides effective guidance when responding to regulatory observations during inspections. Martin also tracks regulatory trends, responds to proposed legislation and guidance, and helps clients stay ahead of emerging issues such as class action lawsuits. His unique combination of technical knowledge and legal acumen makes him a trusted advisor and advocate in the food sector.
Martin Hahn is a partner at Hogan Lovells with a background in food technology and deep expertise in food industry regulations. Drawing on his hands-on experience growing up on a farm and working in food processing plants, Martin brings practical insight to the legal and regulatory challenges facing the food industry from farm to table. He is highly regarded for his comprehensive understanding of the laws governing foods, dietary supplements, infant formulas, medical foods, and products for special dietary use.
Martin helps clients navigate issues ranging from new ingredient authorizations and manufacturing requirements to labeling, advertising, product recalls, and regulatory enforcement. Known for his innovative problem-solving, he provides effective guidance when responding to regulatory observations during inspections. Martin also tracks regulatory trends, responds to proposed legislation and guidance, and helps clients stay ahead of emerging issues such as class action lawsuits. His unique combination of technical knowledge and legal acumen makes him a trusted advisor and advocate in the food sector.
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Hot Topics Round Table Panelists:
Martin Hahn
Hogan Lovells
Marcie Peters
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Matthew Bossier
President, Property & Casualty, BevCap Management Presentation: May 21st @ 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM BACKGROUND
Matthew is a seasoned insurance industry professional with deep expertise across claims, underwriting, brokerage, risk consulting, and captive insurance. He began his career at Travelers Insurance, where he held various claims roles before advancing to the Alternative Risk Transfer unit within National Accounts, serving large corporate clients. In 2014, Matthew joined BevCap Management, where he now leads the Property & Casualty Captive Programs team. He is responsible for driving sustainable, profitable growth and delivering value across BevCap’s P&C captive offerings. In addition, Matthew oversees Hatteras Re, a heterogeneous group captive that provides medical stop-loss insurance and cost-containment solutions to self-funded employers through multiple protected cells. |
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Transportation Update: SUMMARY
In this session, Scott Weeks, Director of Business Development at Ryder Transportation Solutions, will provide insights into the latest trends and challenges affecting transportation within the U.S. and Texas food industry. Attendees will learn about current logistics strategies, regulatory developments, and innovative solutions driving efficiency and reliability in food supply chains. This presentation will equip industry professionals with valuable updates to navigate the evolving landscape of food transportation in Texas and beyond. |
Scott Weeks
Director of Business Development, Ryder Transportation Solutions Presentation: May 21st @ 10:15 AM - 11:00 AM |
BACKGROUND
Scott Weeks is Director of Business Development at Ryder System, Inc., based in Texas. Over more than 20 years with Ryder, he helps shippers and fleets design high-performance, compliance-ready transportation solutions across full-service leasing, commercial rental, dedicated transportation, maintenance, used vehicles, transportation management, and broader supply chain services. Since 2015, he has led business development for strategic accounts, earning Ryder’s National Director, Business Development Salesperson of the Year (National Salesperson of the Year) award seven consecutive years (2019–2025). Previously, he served as Business Development Manager in the Dallas–Fort Worth market and as a Rental Account Manager in the Greater St. Louis Area and Davenport, Iowa, where he built and retained customer portfolios. He works cross-functionally to align vehicle specification, maintenance, licensing and permitting, regulatory reporting, and safety services with each customer’s operational and financial goals.
Scott Weeks is Director of Business Development at Ryder System, Inc., based in Texas. Over more than 20 years with Ryder, he helps shippers and fleets design high-performance, compliance-ready transportation solutions across full-service leasing, commercial rental, dedicated transportation, maintenance, used vehicles, transportation management, and broader supply chain services. Since 2015, he has led business development for strategic accounts, earning Ryder’s National Director, Business Development Salesperson of the Year (National Salesperson of the Year) award seven consecutive years (2019–2025). Previously, he served as Business Development Manager in the Dallas–Fort Worth market and as a Rental Account Manager in the Greater St. Louis Area and Davenport, Iowa, where he built and retained customer portfolios. He works cross-functionally to align vehicle specification, maintenance, licensing and permitting, regulatory reporting, and safety services with each customer’s operational and financial goals.
