What an incredible Week at the 2025 AJA Conference in Fort Worth

As we close out another unforgettable American Jail Association Conference, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to every attendee, presenter, sponsor, exhibitor, and volunteer who made the 2025 Conference and Jail Expo in Fort Worth such a tremendous success. This week reminded all of us why AJA continues to lead the way in local corrections.

The Fort Worth conference delivered everything our members expect from AJA. It provided professional development, meaningful networking, impactful committee work, recognition of excellence, and forward momentum. The energy throughout the week was strong, and the level of engagement, participation, and commitment shown by our members, presenters, and supporters is a testament to the strength and resilience of our profession.

Exceptional Training that Raises the Bar

The training opportunities this year were among the most impactful we have ever offered. Our sessions tackled the real issues facing local jails, including recruitment and retention, mental health collaboration, inmate programming, veteran and chaplaincy support, facility operations, legal updates, liability management, cultural awareness, and leadership development. We heard from experts in the field, frontline professionals, researchers, and thought leaders. Every session offered practical strategies and real-world applications.

This year’s workshops focused on more than just ideas. They were hands-on, solutions-oriented, and directly relevant to the everyday demands we face in our facilities. Topics ranged from enhancing staff wellness and preventing burnout to improving reentry outcomes, refining jail classification systems, and building effective housing strategies. Whether you were a new supervisor or a seasoned administrator, the training program provided something valuable for every attendee.

Many of these sessions were led by our own members, showcasing the knowledge, experience, and innovation already present within our field. That is what makes AJA different. We are a professional family that shares, teaches, and supports one another.

Networking that Builds Lifelong Connections

One of the most powerful parts of the AJA Conference is the opportunity to connect with peers from across the country. Whether you operate a small rural jail or oversee a large urban facility, the challenges we face are more alike than different. The ability to connect face-to-face with people who truly understand your responsibilities, your decisions, and your stress is one of the most valuable benefits of attending.

These connections are more than professional. They become a source of strength, encouragement, and collaboration. Whether over breakfast, walking between sessions, or during evening receptions, members took full advantage of the opportunity to build relationships that will last long after Fort Worth.

AJA continues to be the national community for jail professionals who care about this work and care about each other. That sense of trust and shared commitment is what makes our association so effective.

Exhibitors and Sponsors Who Make It All Possible

The exhibitor hall was a vibrant showcase of innovation, technology, and essential services. We were proud to welcome dozens of companies that support our profession through products and solutions that make our facilities safer, more efficient, and more responsive to the needs of both staff and inmates.

We extend our sincere thanks to our sponsors and exhibitors. Your ongoing investment in local corrections and in AJA is critical to our shared success. We simply could not accomplish what we do without your support.

Leadership in Action

The Fort Worth conference was also a time for business, planning, and leadership. We held a full series of committee meetings throughout the week, giving our members the opportunity to directly influence the work of the association. From training and wellness to legislation, member engagement, and standards, AJA committees continue to be where ideas are shaped, refined, and acted upon.

If you are an AJA member and want to get more involved, joining a committee is the best place to start. Committees are where decisions are made, initiatives are built, and member voices are heard. We welcome your participation and encourage you to help move the profession forward by stepping up to serve.

Our board of directors also met to review strategic goals, monitor progress, and identify new opportunities to serve our members. These meetings are essential to keeping our association strong and responsive. Thank you to the board members who gave their time, insight, and leadership throughout the week.

At our Annual Business Luncheon, I was honored to be sworn in as the 45th President of the American Jail Association. It was one of the most meaningful moments of my professional life. Even more rewarding was the opportunity to swear in the 2025 to 2026 AJA Board of Directors. This group of committed professionals is a dream team of leaders who are ready to serve with passion, experience, and purpose.

Recognizing Achievement Across Our Profession

We proudly recognized the graduates of Jail Executive Institute Session Number Four. This advanced leadership program prepares jail professionals to handle the complex challenges of correctional leadership. Their hard work and dedication will pay dividends in their agencies and communities for years to come.

We also celebrated the most recent graduates of the National Jail Leadership Command Academy during a special reception. As a proud graduate of Class Ten, it was especially meaningful for me to watch the latest class continue the legacy of strong, ethical leadership. The NJLCA continues to set the standard for developing tomorrow’s leaders.

Another highlight of the week was our Annual Awards Reception and Banquet. What a night. We gathered to honor outstanding professionals and innovative programs that exemplify the best of local corrections. The energy in the room was powerful as we applauded those who go above and beyond every day in service to their jails and their communities.

A Special Thanks to Our Hosts

A huge thank you to the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office and Sheriff Bill Waybourn for helping host such a seamless, professional, and welcoming event. The support of the host agency plays a major role in the success of every conference, and this year was no exception. The presence of Tarrant County staff, the collaboration behind the scenes, and the pride they brought to the event helped make Fort Worth an ideal location. We are grateful for your hospitality and your commitment to excellence.

Looking Ahead to Milwaukee

As we close the chapter on Fort Worth, we are already turning our focus to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the host city of the 2026 AJA Conference and Jail Expo. Planning is already underway, and we could not be more excited about what is to come.

Milwaukee is a city rich with culture, history, and hospitality. It offers a welcoming environment and an ideal venue for the type of meaningful gathering that defines AJA. We are working to build a strong lineup of training sessions, networking events, exhibits, and opportunities for recognition.

We want next year’s conference to build on everything we accomplished in Fort Worth and continue to push the standard higher. That begins now. Mark your calendars, talk to your teams, and make your travel plans. The countdown to Milwaukee has begun.

Thank You. See you in Milwaukee. We’re getting back to basics.

Shaun Klucznik, MA, CJM, CCHP President American Jail Association