Letter From the President
...this conference serves as a cornerstone for professional growth, collaboration, and meaningful dialogue within the jail community. The 2026 program reflects our continued commitment to practical, high-impact training focused on the realities of today’s jail environment.
On behalf of the American Jail Association and the Board of Directors, I am honored to welcome you to the 2026 AJA Conference & Jail Expo in Milwaukee.
On behalf of the American Jail Association and the Board of Directors, I am honored to welcome you to the 2026 AJA Conference & Jail Expo in Milwaukee.
A great place on a Great Lake, Milwaukee is a city that cherishes its roots. You will see revitalized architecture throughout downtown, and a parade of summer festivals that celebrate the diverse cultures that helped shape this remarkable community. Our conference is being held at the Baird Center, one of the world’s most architecturally exhilarating and technologically robust convention facilities, located in the heart of downtown and offering 188,695 square feet of state-of-the-art exhibit space.
Each year, this conference serves as a cornerstone for professional growth, collaboration, and meaningful dialogue within the jail community. The 2026 program reflects our continued commitment to practical, high-impact training focused on the realities of today’s jail environment. Workshops address critical topics such as leadership and decision-making, legal and operational risk, staff wellness, emerging challenges, technology, and innovative practices that strengthen safety, professionalism, and accountability.
I encourage you to take full advantage of everything this conference has to offer. Attend sessions that challenge your thinking, engage with exhibitors who support our profession, and connect with peers who understand the complexity and responsibility of jail leadership. These relationships and shared experiences are what make AJA strong.
This conference would not be possible without the dedicated work of our Conference Planning Committee, program leadership, exhibitors, and AJA staff. I also extend my sincere appreciation to the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office and Sheriff Denita R. Ball for serving as our host agency and for their outstanding support of this year’s conference.
Most importantly, thank you for the work you do every day in our nation’s jails. Your professionalism, resilience, and dedication to public safety and human dignity matter. It is a privilege to serve as your President.
I wish you a productive and rewarding conference.
Sincerely,
Shaun Klucznik, MA, CJM, CCHP
President
American Jail Association
