SWANA Launches Inaugural RCon ™: Empowering the Future of Resource Management

Groundbreaking Event Kicks Off to Unite Industry Leaders, Innovators, and Stakeholders 

November 12, 2025 — Columbus, OH

The Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) proudly announces the official opening of the very first RCon™, being held November 12-15 in Columbus, Ohio. This groundbreaking RCon brings together an extraordinary gathering of experts, leaders, researchers, and practitioners dedicated to shaping the future of waste and resource management.  

SWANA welcomes over 1,600 attendees and 211 supporting organizations to RCon for a week of learning, meaningful dialogue, resource discovery, and making connections.  

"RCon marks a pivotal moment for SWANA and our industry,” said SWANA CEO Amy Lestition Burke, MA, FASAE, CAE. “We’re thrilled to welcome waste and resource management professionals from across the world to share knowledge, build connections, and set the stage for the future. We intentionally built an experience to offer something for everyone at RCon." 

Participants are encouraged to build their own experience with a full schedule of more than 100 learning opportunities, including concurrent sessions, general sessions, interactive roundtables, poster presentations, and experiential learning tours. Each day will feature a keynote panel of distinguished speakers on topics including safety, EPR, innovation, and the future of resource management.  

“RCon was shaped by members and reflects the values of SWANA, creating a community and gathering of waste and resource management professionals. The ‘R’ in RCon stands for 'resource,' as we enable the transformation of waste as a resource," shared SWANA President Elizabeth Roe. "We are also looking forward to recognizing SWANA Award Recipients at the award celebration, and to recognizing our volunteers at SWANA's Volunteer Appreciation Bash."

The Exhibit Hall has no shortage of activities, including hundreds of exhibitors providing resources and solutions in the form of technology, equipment, vehicles, consulting support, research services, and more, including several vehicles on display. The Exhibit Hall will offer learning opportunities with poster presentations and Rapid Insight sessions in the New Way Theatre. The Ohio EPA America Recycles Day Art Show will give attendees the opportunity to appreciate local art, and the pickleball tournament will provide some fun activity. This is the first pickleball tournament to be held in the Greater Columbus Convention Center! 

"We couldn’t make this happen without the support of our sponsors and exhibitors. Their commitment powers the momentum behind RCon's mission, and we appreciate their support," emphasized Lestition Burke. “We have some exciting announcements in store this week, including the dates and locations of future RCon years, so stay tuned for more!"