National Sheriffs’ Association Conferences: What to Know About the Winter & Annual Events
Every year, the National Sheriffs’ Association holds two conferences to bring together the country’s sheriffs, command staff, and other law enforcement decision-makers.
At both the NSA Winter Conference, held in January, and the NSA Annual Conference, held in June, law enforcement leaders meet to address the most pressing topics, issues, and trends facing public safety agencies today.
Joining law enforcement leaders at these conferences are members of Congress and federal agencies interested in learning more about the current landscape of policing. Together, conference attendees can get a better idea of the challenges and opportunities facing agencies, and what technologies, legislation, and solutions can be used to address those effectively.
In 2026, the NSA Winter Conference will be held at the JW Marriott Washington, D.C., from January 31 to February 4. The NSA Annual Conference will be held in Omaha, Nebraska, from June 8 to 11.
What is the National Sheriffs’ Association?
The National Sheriffs’ Association, or NSA, is a professional law enforcement organization committed to serving sheriffs and their agencies through training, education, industry events, advocacy, and resource-sharing.
Since 1940, the NSA has represented thousands of sheriffs, deputies, and other law enforcement personnel seeking to improve their understanding of public safety operations. NSA conferences are an essential part of the organization’s mission to educate its members on the most critical issues in law enforcement.
2026 NSA Winter Conference Overview
As the year's first major event, the NSA Winter Conference typically focuses on high-level leadership issues in policy, legislation, and big-picture decision-making. This conference is smaller than the Annual Conference, but it attracts a strong audience of sheriffs, command staff, and senior administrators.
Some of the key events from the 2026 NSA Winter Conference include:
Opening general session (Saturday, January 31)
President’s Welcome Reception (Sunday, February 1)
Hill Day (Tuesday, February 3)
Closing President’s Reception (Tuesday, February 3)
Three full days of seminars include conversations about public safety technology, officer wellness, jail operations, and the future of law enforcement.
The NSA Winter Conference Exhibit Hall allows attendees to meet with vendors like PowerDetails. In this smaller conference, it’s easier for visitors to have authentic conversations with solution providers in a range of public safety areas.
Why the NSA Winter Conference Matters
Compared to the larger Annual Conference, the winter event is considered a more intimate setting where law enforcement leaders can engage with policymakers and administrators. Meeting in the first quarter of the year allows agencies and their leaders to create early-year strategies that can be implemented throughout the following months.
Finally, it’s an excellent chance for agencies to learn about emerging technologies and solutions that can better address their personnel, compliance, and operational needs. As law enforcement continues to evolve, attendees can benefit from seeing what other agencies are doing to keep up with constant advances in technology and policy.
2026 NSA Annual Conference Overview
The NSA Annual Conference is the association’s largest event of the year, combining training, professional development, and vendor engagement in one multi-day conference.
The annual event is larger than the winter conference and includes more space for vendors, as well as more extensive seminars and discussions. Networking opportunities at the NSA Annual Conference are expanded with visitors who are both sworn officers and civilian admin staff.
Because this event is open to more attendees, some agencies bring more staff, creating more opportunities to learn, network, and improve operations back home.
PowerDetails at National Sheriffs’ Association Conferences
For years, PowerDetails has participated in National Sheriffs’ Association conferences to connect with our customers around the country and to introduce our solutions to agencies facing off-duty management challenges.
At both NSA conferences, PowerDetails:
exhibits in the vendor hall to connect with agencies
demonstrates our latest features and functionalities
shares insights from what we’re seeing in the world of off-duty management
uncovers insights from leaders on the frontlines of law enforcement
At the 2026 Winter NSA Conference, PowerDetails will be exhibiting at Booth 212. If you’re attending, we encourage you to stop by, ask any questions you have about off-duty management, or share what you’re seeing at your agency.
Frequently Asked Questions About NSA Conferences
Who should attend NSA conferences?
Sheriffs, deputies, command staff, and other law enforcement professionals can benefit from attending NSA Conferences. The Annual Conference is ideal for broader attendees like agency administrators, coordinators, and other civilian staff.
When is the 2026 NSA Winter Conference?
The 2026 NSA Winter Conference is held January 31 to February 4 in Washington, D.C. You can learn more about the NSA Winter Conference here.
When is the 2026 NSA Annual Conference?
The 2026 NSA Annual Conference is held June 8 to 11, 2026, in Omaha, Nebraska. You can find more about the NSA Annual Conference here.
Is there a difference between the two events?
Yes. The Winter Conference is more focused on high-level leadership and policy, while the Annual Conference is larger in scope and features a broader educational approach to law enforcement topics.
