Welcome
Convention Registration
Resort Information & Reservations
Optional Group Activities
Schedule of Events
General Session Agenda
Airports & Ground Transportation
Area Activities & Attractions
Dining Options
Plan Your Stay - Attire
Visiting Puerto Rico - Frequently Asked Questions
Scholarship Auction
Sponsors
JOIN US FEBRUARY 22-26, 2026
Welcome to Paradise!
It is going to be 92 degrees in Wisconsin today as I write this letter. In the heat of the summer and construction season, it is hard to believe that another amazing WTBA convention is coming up, but it is indeed. Soon enough I will be passing the baton to another incredible leader from the ranks of the WTBA Board.
Before I do, I hope you’ll join us for one more incredible convention — this time in beautiful Puerto Rico at the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar.
We’ve got an exciting week lined up for you. Mornings will kick off with engaging, energizing sessions — we’re talking leadership with a workplace communication expert, ownership and accountability brought to us by Echelon Front, and much more! You’ll laugh, learn, and leave inspired.
And then there’s everything outside the sessions: stunning beaches, poolside relaxation, golf with ocean views, unforgettable group outings, and plenty of time to connect at our evening hospitality events. Bring your family and make a vacation out of it — they’ll love it too.
This is one you won’t want to miss.
Mark your calendars, rally your coworkers, and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
See you soon in Puerto Rico!
Sincerely,
Dan Zignego, WTBA President
CONVENTION REGISTRATION
Convention Registration Available October 1st at WTBA.org
Includes admission to General Sessions, Breakfasts, President’s Welcome Reception, Closing Banquet, and Hospitality each evening.
You must register for your hotel room separately on the Resort Information & Reservations tab.
- Member: $1,400
- Spouse/Guest: $700
- Children (under 18): Complimentary. Please register all children so that we have an accurate count for meals.
Event cancellation policy: Full refund if notification is submitted via email to cdemarco@wtba.org 15 days prior to the event.
RESORT INFORMATION & RESERVATIONS
WYNDHAM GRAND RIO MAR RESORT
6000 Blvd. Río Mar, Río Grande, Puerto Rico
Escape to the tropical oasis of the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Golf & Beach Resort, the stunning host location for the 2026 WTBA Annual Convention. Nestled between the lush El Yunque National Forest and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, this luxurious resort offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, modern comfort, and exceptional amenities.
A link to reserve your room in the WTBA room block will be available on September 15th.
The discounted group rate for a standard guest room is $349 per night, plus applicable taxes and a daily $35 resort fee. A selection of suites is also available by contacting the resort directly at 787-888-6000 and referencing the WTBA Room Block.
The WTBA room block will be available until January 22, 2026, or until all rooms in the block have been reserved. Please note that reservations made after this date will be subject to hotel availability and may not qualify for the discounted group rate.
OPTIONAL GROUP ACTIVITES
All optional group activities will occur the afternoon of Tuesday, February 24
GOLF OUTING
Fee: $210 per person | Club Rentals: $80
Includes green fees, box lunch, and unlimited beverages.
Join us for a round on the Ocean Course at the Rio Mar Country Club, located at the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar. This stunning 6,716-yard course is nestled between the El Yunque Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views throughout. The signature 16th hole is considered one of the finest in the Caribbean.
Tee Time: 12:00 p.m. Shotgun Start
CATAMARAN SAIL & SNORKEL TOUR
Fee: $300 | Limited to 80 participants
Includes round-trip transportation (approx. 45 minutes each way), deli-style lunch onboard, open bar, and snorkel gear.
Set sail aboard a 62’ catamaran bound for the uninhabited island of Icacos. Relax on the spacious deck, enjoy the shaded cabin seating, and take in the views through glass-bottom windows—or head down the onboard water slide!
What to Bring:
- Sunscreen lotion (sprays not allowed)
- Swimsuit worn under clothing
- Flip-flops or water shoes
- Jewelry is discouraged
- A beach towel will be provided by the hotel at departure
Departure: 11:30 a.m. from Hotel Lobby (arrive by 11:15)
Return: 5:15 p.m. to Hotel Lobby
EL YUNQUE RAINFOREST TOUR
Fee: $190 | Limited to 36 participants
Includes round-trip transportation (15 minutes each way) and guided tour.
Lunch on your own before departure.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Begin at the El Portal Visitors Center with immersive exhibits, then climb the Yokahu Observation Tower for sweeping panoramic views. Cap off the adventure at a serene river oasis where you may take a refreshing swim.
What to Wear:
- Comfortable clothing
- Closed-toe walking shoes (no sandals)
- Swimsuit worn under clothing if you would like to take a swim
Departure: 11:45 a.m. from Hotel Lobby (arrive by 11:30)
Return: 4:20 p.m. to Hotel Lobby
OLD SAN JUAN WALK & TASTE TOUR
Fee: $370 | Limited to 20 participants
Includes round-trip transportation (approx. 45 minutes each way), guided tour, and food tastings at 4–5 locations.
Experience the culture, history, and flavor of Old San Juan on this guided walking tour. As you explore the cobblestone streets and colonial architecture at a relaxed pace, your expert guide will share fascinating stories of the area’s past. Along the way, enjoy delicious tastings at local pubs and cantinas.
Departure: 11:45 a.m. from Hotel Lobby (arrive by 11:30)
Return: 4:30 p.m. to Hotel Lobby
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Available in November
GENERAL SESSION AGENDA
Full General Session Agenda Available in December
Rob Jones is a retired US Marine, combat leader, and now a leadership instructor and speaker with Echelon Front. He spent five years in the Marine Corps, with deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan. As a Combat Engineer, Rob specialized in finding hidden Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), the enemy’s most deadly weapons. On a mission in July of 2010, while executing an IED sweep, Rob stepped on an IED, which resulted in double above-knee amputations of his legs. He spent the next year and a half in physical therapy before retiring from the Marine Corps in 2011.
Upon his retirement, Rob was forced to adapt to a new way of being a leader. To do this, he turned to the world of sports. In 2012, he competed in the 2012 Paralympic Games in London, England, bringing home a bronze medal in rowing. In 2013, he became the first double above-knee amputee to ride a bicycle across the United States, riding 5,181 miles from Bar Harbor, Maine to Camp Pendleton, California. In 2017, he ran 31 marathons in 31 consecutive days in 31 different cities.
Throughout this journey, Rob has relied upon the principles taught at Echelon Front to turn the darkest moment of his life into a life of impact—more meaningful than he ever could have expected. Rob now brings his experience to Echelon Front to help teams of people take Extreme Ownership and overcome the challenges they face in business and in life.
Jamie Turner is an internationally recognized author, professor, speaker, and TV news contributor who has helped The Coca-Cola Company, AT&T, Holiday Inn, and other global brands tackle complex business problems.
Jamie is a regular guest on CNN and HLN on the topics of marketing, business leadership and branding. He is the co-author of four essential business books that have been translated into half a dozen languages.
Jamie has been profiled in one of the world’s best-selling textbooks and is an internationally recognized keynote speaker at trade shows, events, and corporations around the globe. He has been featured in Huffington Post, Business Insider, Entrepreneur, Inc. and other prominent publications.
His leadership website, The Unspoken Rules of Leadership, teaches executives how to communicate more effectively, improve their productivity, inspire their team members, and improve their performance.
Jamie also co-founded a non-profit called A School Bell Rings which has built school rooms for impoverished children in Tanzania, India, Uganda, and Guatemala.
AIRPORT & GROUND TRANSPORTATION
Airport: Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) located in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Travel Time: Approximate travel time from the airport to the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Resort is 35 minutes
GSI Shared Shuttle Service: The most convenient and cost-effective way to travel between the airport and the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Resort.
- Cost: $44 per person, each way (minimum 2 people per transfer)
- Hours of Operation
- Arrivals: 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Departures: 5:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Reservations: CLICK HERE to reserve your arrival and departure shuttle
- Questions: Contact GSI directly
- Email: wgrmtourdesk@gsipuertorico.com
- Phone: +1 787-657-1510
GSI Private Shuttle Service: Requires a minimum of 6 passengers and can be arranged directly with GSI at wgrmtourdesk@gsipuertorico.com or by calling +1 787-657-1510
Uber / Taxi: Fares range from $45–$85 each way, depending on traffic and time of day
Car Rentals: Major rental companies are located at or near the airport, including: Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National
AREA ATTRACTIONS
Discover Puerto Rico’s Gems
Casa Bacardi Tours & Experiences
Step into the world’s largest premium rum distillery at Casa BACARDÍ, where Puerto Rican heritage meets the legendary BACARDÍ brand. Just a short ferry ride from Old San Juan, your visit begins with a welcome cocktail at the scenic Bat Bar Pavilion—setting the tone for a flavorful and fascinating experience.
Visit Old San Juan
Wander the vibrant, cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, where history meets charm. Visit iconic sites like El Morro and San Cristóbal forts, marvel at colorful Spanish colonial buildings. With more than 500 years of history, there’s no shortage of places to cover.
El Yunque National Forest
Venture into El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Hike lush trails, spot unique wildlife, and visit scenic highlights like La Mina Falls and the Yokahu Observation Tower. A must-see for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Bioluminescent Bays
Witness one of Puerto Rico’s most magical natural wonders—the glowing waters of its bioluminescent bays. Mosquito Bay in Vieques is the brightest in the world, while Laguna Grande in Fajardo and La Parguera in Lajas also offer unforgettable evening tours.
Beaches
With nearly 300 beaches along 270 miles of coastline, Puerto Rico is a beach lover’s paradise. From hidden coves to popular surf spots, you’ll find a perfect stretch of sand to relax, explore, or catch a wave. Learn More
Water Sports
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Puerto Rico has it all—fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and more. Learn More
DINING
Dining Options at the Resort
WTBA will host a breakfast buffet each morning, as well as dinner on Sunday, Monday, and Wednesday evenings. Lunch and dinner Tuesday are on your own.
The resort offers a diverse selection of restaurants and bars to suit every taste. CLICK HERE to explore dining options available on the property. Dinner reservations are highly recommended.
Off-Resort Dining Options
While the majority of restaurants are located in San Juan (approximately a 30–45 minute drive each way), you’ll also find a number of dining options closer to the resort in the Rio Grande area—ideal for more convenient off-site meals
PLAN YOUR STAY
WEATHER
February in Puerto Rico offers ideal tropical weather—warm, sunny, and breezy. Expect average daytime highs around 85°F and evening lows near 70°F—perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxing beachside.
WHAT TO PACK
Pack light, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the island’s tropical climate. If you’re planning to explore the rainforest or hit the hiking trails, bring sturdy shoes and rain gear.
Resort and sportswear are appropriate for the General Session and daytime activities. Shoes and cover-ups are required in all indoor restaurants, lounges, lobbies, and public areas.
- President’s Welcome Reception Enjoy an outdoor celebration of Puerto Rican cuisine, cocktails, and culture. Attire: Resort Casual
- Auction Dinner A relaxed evening of fun and support for the WTBA Scholarship Fund. Attire: Resort Casual
- Closing Night Banquet A memorable evening recognizing our board members and wrapping up the week in style. Attire: Semi-Formal
FAQ
Do I need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico?
No passport required to travel from the U.S. mainland to Puerto Rico. Reminder that as of May 2025, U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights.
What is the currency in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico uses the U.S. Dollar (USD).
What languages are spoken in Puerto Rico?
The official languages of Puerto Rico are Spanish and English. While Spanish is the predominant language, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Is Puerto Rico safe for travelers?
Puerto Rico is generally safe for tourists, especially in popular areas such as San Juan, Rincon, and Ponce. As with any destination, it’s always wise to take precautions, like staying in well-lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure.
Can I use my cell phone in Puerto Rico?
Yes, if you are a U.S. resident, your cell phone plan will likely work in Puerto Rico without roaming charges. It’s still a good idea to check with your provider to confirm coverage and any possible fees.
What should I pack for my trip to Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico has a tropical climate, so pack light clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes. If you plan on hiking or exploring rainforests, bring appropriate gear like hiking shoes and rain gear.
Can I drink the tap water in Puerto Rico?
Yes, tap water in Puerto Rico is treated and safe to drink. However, some travelers may prefer bottled water, especially in rural areas.
SCHOLARSHIP AUCTION
Records were made to be broken. Will you help us set the next one?
Please join us for the annual WTBA Scholarship Auction the evening of Monday, Feb. 23, 2026.
Last year at Margaritaville, we set a new record of $276,000 raised. Proceeds benefit the WTBA of Tomorrow Scholarship program and support the Transportation Education Fund.
TEF promotes the importance of sustainable funding and members’ work statewide through school outreach, public relations, roundtables with key stakeholders, and much more.
We’ll also bring back the popular online auction leading up to convention, launching in mid-February. Those who participated in the past will see their usernames and passwords carry over. You do not need to attend the Annual Convention to participate in the online auction.
Stay tuned to this page and your email for updates as items begin to appear!
THANK YOU SPONSORS
Please contact Catherine DeMarco at cdemarco@wtba.org if interested in becoming a sponsor.
Deadline for 2026 Convention sponsorships is October 1st, 2025.