One of the most significant takeaways from the 2026 NAFTZ Spring Seminar in Portland may not have happened only in the meeting room itself — but also through the screens of professionals joining us remotely from across the country.

For the first time, NAFTZ offered a Livestream Access Pass for Spring Seminar, providing remote participants with real-time access to most General Sessions and all Z-Tech sessions. While introducing livestream access added a new layer of operational complexity behind the scenes, the overall experience proved successful and, more importantly, valuable to members.

Remote attendees actively participated throughout the program with engagement levels and feedback exceeding expectations for a first-time offering. Attendance fluctuated naturally throughout the day, as expected in a professional remote-learning environment, but comments and participation consistently reflected attendee engagement and attention.

Perhaps the most notable surprise from Portland was the extraordinary response to the new Z-Tech sessions.

Originally introduced to explore the intersection of technology, technical expertise, and operational techniques shaping today’s FTZ environment, Z-Tech session topics quickly emerged as some of the most talked-about aspects of the conference. Topics focused on AI, operational technology, compliance systems, intelligent workflows, and practical applications within FTZ and trade environments generated exceptionally positive feedback and revealed a significant level of member interest. As a result of this feedback, NAFTZ is already planning additional webinars and future educational programming on these topics.

Based on the overall success of the livestream pilot, we plan to continue offering livestream access during future Spring Seminars while further expanding and refining Z-Tech programming. 

It is important to note that at the same time, NAFTZ remains committed to preserving the unique value of attending our conferences in-person. Due to the scale and operational demands of the Annual Conference, livestreaming will not be added to the 2026 Annual Conference in San Diego as staff continues refining support capabilities following the Spring Seminar pilot.

We are excited to build on the Spring Seminar momentum—expanding access through new delivery models, strengthening Z-Tech programming, and continuing to create learning opportunities that help the FTZ community move forward together.