‘Crash the GAC’ participants selected
A large group of emerging credit leaders from across the country will take part in the Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) as part of The Cooperative Trust’s Crash the GAC program in Washington, D.C., March 1-5. The Filene Research Institute announced the 2026 Crashers Monday, who went through a rigorous application process and represent diverse roles and credit unions of every asset size.
This is the 17th year for the program, which provides a front-row seat to the largest credit union advocacy event in the nation. While at the GAC, Crashers gain access to key industry conversations, meetings with top credit union CEOs, and unique leadership development experiences designed to strengthen both their careers and the broader credit union system.
“One of the things that gives me the most confidence in the future of this movement is the next generation stepping up,” stated Scott Simpson, president/CEO of America’s Credit Unions. “The leaders selected to Crash the GAC represent the talent, passion, and purpose that will shape the future of cooperative finance, and I’m excited to see the impact they’ll have not just at GAC, but throughout their careers. Their presence strengthens our movement and ensures the credit union difference remains strong for years to come.”
One of the selected 2026 Crashers, Tyler Lewallen, mortgage servicing specialist III at AmFirst Credit Union, shared excitement about this opportunity.
“When I think of ‘people helping people,’ I think about speaking up for others and advocating for those whose voices aren’t always heard. I’m genuinely excited for the opportunity to be surrounded by more than 60 like-minded emerging professionals as we take D.C. by storm, learn more about the credit union movement, and better understand how our voices matter, and how they can be used to create real, positive change,” he said. “As a previous Filene Crasher, I know this is the kind of experience I’ll look back on long after the week has passed.”
Crash the GAC programming is made possible by The Cooperative Trust from Filene Research Institute, with generous support from America’s Credit Unions.