Just back from the JD Edwards INFOCUS conference in Denver, I’m reflecting on the incredible community within the ERP world. ERP professionals—whether working with SAP, JD Edwards, NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics, or other systems—aren’t just experts in software. They are leaders, problem-solvers, and lifelong learners who make the world a bit better through their collective efforts.

Staying ahead isn’t only about mastering systems—it’s about mastering yourself. Personal growth, professional networking, and community engagement are essential tools for ERP professionals who want to thrive.

Why Personal Development Matters

ERP expertise goes far beyond software. It’s about leadership, strategy, and adaptability. By investing in your own growth, you can:

Lead cross-functional teams with confidence
Navigate digital transformation and organizational change
Communicate technical value effectively to business stakeholders

A strong focus on personal development equips you to handle both the technical and human sides of ERP.

The Power of Networking & User Groups

ERP user groups and professional communities are more than social circles—they’re knowledge accelerators. These networks provide:

Real-world insights from peers facing similar challenges
Early access to product updates and roadmap previews
Opportunities to influence vendor direction through feedback

Engaging with these communities not only sharpens your skills but also raises your professional visibility.

Why Conferences Are Game-Changers

Industry conferences are the heartbeat of ERP. They offer unique opportunities for hands-on learning, networking, and career growth:

Workshops and certifications to expand your skill set
Direct access to product experts and vendor leadership
Exposure to emerging technologies like AI, automation, and predictive analytics
Career-defining connections with industry leaders

Attending conferences can be a game-changer for both personal and professional development.

Upcoming ERP Conferences You Shouldn’t Miss

Here are some must-attend events in the next 12 months:

📅 September 2025

Sep 15–18 | Workday Rising | San Francisco, CA | Workday

📅 October 2025

Oct 5–9 | SuiteWorld 2025 | Las Vegas, NV | NetSuite
Oct 6–8 | SAP Connect | Las Vegas, NV | SAP
Oct 13–16 | Oracle CloudWorld | Las Vegas, NV | Oracle Cloud Apps
Oct 13–16 | Oracle OpenWorld | Las Vegas, NV | Oracle Fusion, JD Edwards, NetSuite

📅 January 2026

Jan 25–28 | Acumatica Summit | Seattle, WA | Acumatica Cloud ERP

📅 May 2026

May 4–7 | BLUEPRINT 4D | Dallas, TX | JD Edwards, NetSuite, Oracle Cloud
May 18–21 | Epicor Insights | Nashville, TN | Epicor ERP

📅 September 2026

TBD | JD Edwards INFOCUS | Denver, CO | JD Edwards

Final Thought

Your ERP expertise is your foundation, but your growth, visibility, and influence come from connection. Invest time in yourself, your network, and your community. The future of your ERP career is both technical and personal.

Just yesterday, I met a candidate with not only the technical skills to excel in her role but also an MBA, a Juris Doctorate, and PMP certification. That level of dedication to personal development and continuous learning is what sets professionals apart in an increasingly competitive landscape.

At Enspire Partners, we’re also curious about the conferences you plan to attend and the ones you’ve found most valuable. If you’d like to present at a conference we are involved with, we may even sponsor your attendance. Reach out at info@enspirepartners.com