American Arbitration Association Expands Panelists to Strengthen Dispute Resolution Efficiency

AAA® Expands Its Panel with 103 New Experts

The American Arbitration Association (AAA), a leading institution in alternative dispute resolution (ADR), has made significant strides in fortifying its team of arbitrators and mediators. As of September 2, 2026, the AAA announced the integration of 103 new panelists joining various panels dedicated to commercial, construction, consumer, employment, and labor disputes. This enhancement, taking place between January and July 2026, reflects AAA's commitment to providing expert dispute resolution services tailored to diverse legal complexities.

A Strategic Move for Enhanced Dispute Resolution

The addition of these panelists is a strategic response to the increasing demand for qualified neutrals capable of navigating the intricate landscape of modern disputes. Eric Dill, the Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer, emphasized that panelists play a crucial role in ensuring fair and efficient outcomes. He noted, "As disputes grow in complexity, we are committed to strengthening our panels so that all parties can find neutrals with the right expertise for their situations."

Among the newcomers, 47 are joining the Commercial Panel, 23 the Construction Panel, 22 the Employment Panel, 9 the Labor Panel, and 4 the Consumer Panel. This large influx of professionals not only demonstrates the AAA's growth but also diversifies its expertise across various sectors, enhancing its ability to resolve a wide range of disputes effectively.

Rigorous Selection Process Ensures Quality

The vetting process for these new panelists is intensive and thorough. Candidates are selected based on their professional achievements, industry knowledge, dispute resolution experience, and other relevant qualifications. The AAA also mandates a comprehensive training regime for all active arbitrators and expects ongoing education to keep pace with the evolving norms in arbitration and mediation. It’s important to note that AAA panelists operate as independent professionals and are not employees of the AAA, reflecting the organization’s principles of impartiality and neutrality.

The New Panelists Enriching AAA's Offerings

The broad selection of new panelists brings substantial legal and industry expertise to the table. The Commercial Panel, for example, now boasts members such as Hon. James Abrams from New York and Edward Allred from Texas, whose backgrounds span diverse areas of law and business. Similarly, the Construction Panel includes professionals like Stephen Bialkowski from New Jersey and Joseph Cooke from New York, bringing critical insights specifically beneficial for construction-related disputes.

The Employment Panel welcomes experts such as Harriet Cooperman from Maryland and Robert Gillette from Washington, reflecting AAA's recognition of labor and employment issues within contemporary workplaces. On the consumer side, the inclusion of specialists such as Andrew Knott from Connecticut addresses the increasingly complex nature of consumer disputes.

Commitment to Advancing Alternative Dispute Resolution

The AAA continues to uphold its mission of providing superior ADR services while adapting to the evolving needs of society. As it celebrates its centenary in 2026, the addition of these 103 new panelists is not just about numbers; it's a testament to the organization’s steadfast commitment to enhancing the resolution process for disputes.

The emphasis on sophisticated, knowledgeable arbitrators enables parties—whether individuals, businesses, or legal professionals—to engage with experts who understand their specific challenges and can offer tailored solutions. As the environment for dispute resolution evolves, the AAA remains at the forefront, ensuring that it has the resources and knowledge base to meet these challenges head-on.

For further information about the panelists and services offered by the AAA, including a complete list of new members, visit AAA's official website. Together, these developments signify a bright and proactive future for alternative dispute resolution, delivering fairness and clarity in increasingly complex legal landscapes.