Who Should Attend?

Who Should Attend

The Learning Leadership Conference is your opportunity to network with peers, discover innovative learning strategies, and enhance your leadership skills to advance your career and achieve business goals

Register Now

The Learning Leadership Conference is the go-to event for L&D leaders who are committed to driving organizational transformation. Whether you’re an executive, director, mid-level manager, or emerging leader, you’ll find valuable content tailored to every stage of your leadership journey.

Executives and L&D Directors


Mid-level Managers and Team Leads


New Leaders


Aspiring Leaders

As an Executive or L&D Director, you’re faced with the daunting tasks of aligning L&D with business objectives, upskilling your workforce for the future, measuring ROI to prove learning effectiveness, and much more. At the Learning Leadership Conference, you’ll discover sessions, networking opportunities, and tools that address the distinct challenges you face, including:

Strategic Alignment & Influence

Position L&D as a trusted business partner and align learning with enterprise goals during these sessions:

• Speaking CEO: Translating L&D for Your C-Suite – Renee Boydo

• Go Beyond Order Taking & Rebrand L&D as a Strategic Business Partner – Lynne McNamee

• Align Your Learning Strategy with Business Goals – Alaina Szlachta

  
  

Data-Driven Impact

Use insights and measurement to prove and improve L&D’s business value with these sessions:

• How Humana Built an Enterprise Learning Measurement Program – Anne Branche

• From Data to Action: Transform Learning Insights into Business Impact – Sandie Dela Cruz

• Lead with Data: Creating High-Impact Learning Strategies with Analytics – Rich Reitter and Christine Hurst

Future-Focused Ecosystems

Design adaptive, scalable learning strategies that meet tomorrow’s challenges with these sessions:

• End-to-End: Craft a Strategic Roadmap for Your Future Learning Ecosystem – Andrea Scroggy

• Beyond the LMS: Building a Cohesive Learning & Performance Ecosystem – Matthew Tang

• AI in the L&D Tech Stack: From Prompting to Agents – Josh Cavalier

• From Selection to Success: A Leader’s Guide to LMS Implementation – Michelle Kotulski

Build Your Executive Network 

As an Executive or L&D Director, it’s crucial for you to talk with your peers to find solutions to shared organizational challenges, benchmark your L&D program, and more. At the Learning Leadership Conference, you’ll engage in networking events dedicated to helping you find other senior learning leaders, including:

• Welcome Party – Right off the bat, we’ll help you find other L&D Executives and Directors that you can spend time with throughout the event, with networking in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.
• Leadership Insight Forums – These engaging discussions allow you to hear perspectives from speakers and peers about topics relevant to your company.
• Lunch – We provide table placards in the lunch area to help you find like-minded professionals, turning lunch into another chance to share ideas and build your network.

See all networking opportunities.

Gain Strategies From Your Peers

Hear sessions presented by other learning senior leaders who have faced the same challenges that you have and overcome them, such as:

• Kirsten Abbott-West, Director, Talent Development Leadership, Universal Destinations & Experiences – Orlando
• Laura Bartus, Head of Learning and Development, Humana – CenterWell Pharmacy
• Ryan Beck, Senior Director, Learning, Walmart Health & Wellness
• Becky Burke, VP Learning & Strategic Development, BankWest, Inc
• George Hanshaw, Director of Digital Learning Solutions, Los Angeles Pacific University
• Lucas Stidham, Senior Director, Learning & Development, Living Spaces

    View all speakers

Find the Right Tools

At the L&D Solutions Gallery, you’ll discover new learning technologies, as well as strategies for workplace performance and talent development from leading consultants. You will have the opportunity to discuss your needs 1:1 with the solution providers and see insightful presentations on the Solutions Gallery stage.

As Mid-level Managers or Team Leads advancing in your careers, the challenges become more complex, from managing organizational change and driving strategic initiatives to developing high-performing teams and aligning with business goals. The Learning Leadership Conference provides insights and strategies you need to tackle them head-on with sessions, speakers, and networking like:

Effective Communication & Feedback

Master the skills that drive clarity, connection, and performance in teams.

• Real Talk: Master Feedback with Best Intent and Proven Strategies – Pam Lee and Nicole Topping

• Feedback That Works: Provide Actionable Insights Your Leaders Need – Matt Daniel

• Communicate Effectively with Dynamic Visual PowerPoint. No, Really! – Richard Goring 

  
  

Team Leadership & Engagement

Inspire, support, and lead diverse teams through motivation and culture.

• Leading & Motivating a Multigenerational Workforce – Laura Bartus

• Universal Orlando: Meeting the Leadership Challenge – Kirsten Abbott-West

• Guide Teams Through Change & Uncertainty with Adaptive Leadership – Olivia Savage

  
  

Performance & Process Excellence

Enhance operational success with smarter systems and stronger onboarding.

• Revolutionize Onboarding: Leveraging Analytics for Success – Taylor Woodyard

• Calculate Your Team’s Velocity & Project Complexity Using Agile Scrum – Penny Bonny and Lauryn Woodman

  
  

Gain Strategies from Your Peers

Hear sessions presented by other learning managers who have faced the same challenges that you have and overcome them, like: 

• Armando Contreraz, Manager of Training & Development, The Fort Worth Club 
• Kayla Delaney, Senior Manager of Learning Program Effectiveness, Walmart Health & Wellness 
• Dawn Peterson, Senior Manager, Learner Experience Design, Boston Scientific 
• John Reynolds, Manager of Learning and Development, Anderson Windows 
• Kelly Shambaugh, Senior Learning Program Manager, Farm Credit Mid-America 
• Cheryl Vilimek, Manager of Instructional Design, Advocate Health

    View all speakers

Build Your Manager Network

As a Mid-level Manager or Team lead, it’s crucial for you to talk with your peers to share strategies for team development, professional growth ideas, and more. At the Learning Leadership Conference, you’ll engage in networking events dedicated to helping you find other managers, including:

• Welcome Party – Right off the bat, we’ll help you find other managers that you can spend time with throughout the event, with facilitated networking in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.
• Leadership Insight Forums – These engaging discussions offer you the opportunity to hear perspectives from speakers and peers about topics relevant to your company.
• Lunch – We provide table placards in the lunch area to help you find like-minded professionals, turning lunch into another chance to share ideas and build your network.

See all networking opportunities

Find the Right Tools

At the L&D Solutions Gallery, you’ll discover new learning technologies, as well as strategies for workplace performance and talent development from leading consultants. You will have the opportunity to discuss your needs 1:1 with the solution providers and see insightful presentations on the Solutions Gallery stage. 

New leaders face unique challenges as you step into leadership roles, from building credibility and influencing teams to navigating organizational change and driving strategic initiatives. The Learning Leadership Conference equips you with tools and strategies to confidently navigate these challenges with sessions, networking opportunities, and solutions, like:  

Foundations for First-Time Leaders

Build confidence, core skills, and clarity in your new leadership journey.

• The Coaching Advantage: Helping First-Time Managers Thrive – Kelvin Jenkins

• A Roadmap for New L&D Leaders – Armando Contreraz

  
  

Creative & Purpose-Driven Leadership

Lead with innovation, intention, and a strong sense of personal style.

• Develop Innovative Leaders with the 4 Paradigms of Leadership – Anthony Salazar

• Brick by Brick: Building Better Leaders with Purposeful Play – Samantha Thomas and John Reynolds

• Innovative Minds @ Work: Integrating AI & Growth Mindset for Impact – Stacy McCracken

  
  

Connection & Emotional Intelligence

Foster trust, empathy, and belonging to elevate your leadership impact.

• High-Five Friday: How & Why to Establish Belonging and Connection with Stakeholders – Doug Zawisza

• Empathy: The Learning Leader’s Superpower – Barbara Lesniak

  
  

Gain Strategies from Your Peers

At the Learning Leadership Conference, you’ll meet our Thirty Under 30 Program participants and be inspired by the valuable work they’ve done early in their careers. You’ll have the opportunity to ask them about their accomplishments and learn how you can do the same. Here’s just a sample of our Thirty Under 30 honorees:

• Faith Brown, Operations Trainer, Westgate Resorts
• Katie Buckner, Specialist, Organizational & Leadership Development, MedVet
• Sabrina Cervantes Villa, Human-Centered Design Specialist, Global Learning Experience, Align Technology
• Ashley Cooks, Sr. Instructional Designer, The Home Depot
• Mickailynn Holman, Specialist – Training & Instructional Design, Maximus

  View all speakers

Build Your Learning Leader Network

As a new leader, it’s crucial for you to share ideas with your peers and also meet more established L&D leaders who can provide mentorship. At the Learning Leadership Conference, you’ll engage in networking events dedicated to helping you find both peers and potential mentors, including:

• Welcome Party – Right off the bat, we’ll help you find other leaders that you can spend time with throughout the event, with facilitated networking in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.
• Lunch – We provide table placards in the lunch area to help you find like-minded professionals, turning lunch into another chance to share ideas and build your network.
• Conversation Starters – Showcase your passions using the provided buttons to adorn your badge lanyard. These buttons will help you spark conversations with others who share your interests.

See all networking opportunities

Find the Right Tools

At the L&D Solutions Gallery, you’ll discover new learning technologies, as well as strategies for workplace performance and talent development from leading consultants. You will have the opportunity to discuss your needs 1:1 with the solution providers and see insightful presentations on the Solutions Gallery stage.

Aspiring leaders face unique challenges in today’s fast-evolving workplace, from navigating AI and automation constraints to ensuring teams have the skills they need for the future. The Learning Leadership Conference is designed to help you overcome these challenges with sessions, speakers, and networking opportunities, including:

Innovative Thinking & Continuous Learning

Fuel creativity, experimentation, and growth through modern learning mindsets.

• Igniting Critical Thinking, Curiosity & Creativity in the Workplace – Erin Donovan

• Experiment, Learn, Grow: A ‘Test & Learn’ Approach to L&D – Maggie Redling and Coleman Williams

• Maximize Learning Using Neuroscience – Steve Johnson

  
  

Collaborative Leadership & Culture Building

Shape environments where people connect, collaborate, and thrive together.

• Building a Thriving Organizational Culture: Strategies for Success – Genevieve Caplette

• Strengthen Communication & Collaboration: Leveraging Thought Diversity – Katherine Johnston, Daniel Cress, and Bjorn Ekelund

• Unlock the Power of Relational Capacity to Strengthen Workplace Bonds – Shantel Dixon

  
  

Purpose, Identity & Leadership Evolution

Elevate your impact by rethinking your role, brand, and strategic value.

• Use Systems Thinking to Build Your Personal Brand & Boost Your Impact – Andy Eninger

• Reimagine Your Role: Skills-Based Learning & Business Acumen – Elham Arabi

  
  

Gain Strategies from Your Peers

Hear sessions presented by other learning leaders at all levels who have faced the same challenges that you have and overcome them, like: 

• Kirsten Abbott-West, Director, Talent Development Leadership, Universal Destinations & Experiences – Orlando 
• Becky Burke, VP Learning & Strategic Development, BankWest, Inc 
• Kayla Delaney, Senior Manager of Learning Program Effectiveness, Walmart Health & Wellness 
• John Reynolds, Manager of Learning and Development, Anderson Windows 

View all speakers

Build Your Learning Leader Network

No matter your seniority, it’s crucial for you to share ideas with your peers and also connect with L&D leaders at all levels who can support you after the event. At the Learning Leadership Conference, you’ll engage in networking events dedicated to helping you build connections, including:

• Welcome Party – Right off the bat, we’ll help you find other leaders that you can spend time with throughout the event, with facilitated networking in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.
• Leadership Insight Forums – These engaging discussions offer you the opportunity to hear perspectives from speakers and peers about topics relevant to your company.
• Lunch – We provide table placards in the lunch area to help you find like-minded professionals, turning lunch into another chance to share ideas and build your network.

See all networking opportunities

Find the Right Tools

At the L&D Solutions Gallery, you’ll discover new learning technologies, as well as strategies for workplace performance and talent development from leading consultants. You will have the opportunity to discuss your needs 1:1 with the solution providers and see insightful presentations on the Solutions Gallery stage.

As an Executive or L&D Director, you’re faced with the daunting tasks of aligning L&D with business objectives, upskilling your workforce for the future, measuring ROI to prove learning effectiveness, and much more. At the Learning Leadership Conference, you’ll discover sessions, networking opportunities, and tools that address the distinct challenges you face, including:

Strategic Alignment & Influence

Position L&D as a trusted business partner and align learning with enterprise goals during these sessions:

• Speaking CEO: Translating L&D for Your C-Suite – Renee Boydo

• Go Beyond Order Taking & Rebrand L&D as a Strategic Business Partner – Lynne McNamee

• Align Your Learning Strategy with Business Goals – Alaina Szlachta

  
  

Data-Driven Impact

Use insights and measurement to prove and improve L&D’s business value with these sessions:

• How Humana Built an Enterprise Learning Measurement Program – Anne Branche

• From Data to Action: Transform Learning Insights into Business Impact – Sandie Dela Cruz

• Lead with Data: Creating High-Impact Learning Strategies with Analytics – Rich Reitter and Christine Hurst

Future-Focused Ecosystems

Design adaptive, scalable learning strategies that meet tomorrow’s challenges with these sessions:

• End-to-End: Craft a Strategic Roadmap for Your Future Learning Ecosystem – Andrea Scroggy

• Beyond the LMS: Building a Cohesive Learning & Performance Ecosystem – Matthew Tang

• AI in the L&D Tech Stack: From Prompting to Agents – Josh Cavalier

• From Selection to Success: A Leader’s Guide to LMS Implementation – Michelle Kotulski

Build Your Executive Network 

As an Executive or L&D Director, it’s crucial for you to talk with your peers to find solutions to shared organizational challenges, benchmark your L&D program, and more. At the Learning Leadership Conference, you’ll engage in networking events dedicated to helping you find other senior learning leaders, including:

• Welcome Party – Right off the bat, we’ll help you find other L&D Executives and Directors that you can spend time with throughout the event, with networking in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.
• Leadership Insight Forums – These engaging discussions allow you to hear perspectives from speakers and peers about topics relevant to your company.
• Lunch – We provide table placards in the lunch area to help you find like-minded professionals, turning lunch into another chance to share ideas and build your network.

See all networking opportunities.

Gain Strategies From Your Peers

Hear sessions presented by other learning senior leaders who have faced the same challenges that you have and overcome them, such as:

• Kirsten Abbott-West, Director, Talent Development Leadership, Universal Destinations & Experiences – Orlando
• Laura Bartus, Head of Learning and Development, Humana – CenterWell Pharmacy
• Ryan Beck, Senior Director, Learning, Walmart Health & Wellness
• Becky Burke, VP Learning & Strategic Development, BankWest, Inc
• George Hanshaw, Director of Digital Learning Solutions, Los Angeles Pacific University
• Lucas Stidham, Senior Director, Learning & Development, Living Spaces

    View all speakers

Find the Right Tools

At the L&D Solutions Gallery, you’ll discover new learning technologies, as well as strategies for workplace performance and talent development from leading consultants. You will have the opportunity to discuss your needs 1:1 with the solution providers and see insightful presentations on the Solutions Gallery stage.

As Mid-level Managers or Team Leads advancing in your careers, the challenges become more complex, from managing organizational change and driving strategic initiatives to developing high-performing teams and aligning with business goals. The Learning Leadership Conference provides insights and strategies you need to tackle them head-on with sessions, speakers, and networking like:

Effective Communication & Feedback

Master the skills that drive clarity, connection, and performance in teams.

• Real Talk: Master Feedback with Best Intent and Proven Strategies – Pam Lee and Nicole Topping

• Feedback That Works: Provide Actionable Insights Your Leaders Need – Matt Daniel

• Communicate Effectively with Dynamic Visual PowerPoint. No, Really! – Richard Goring 

  
  

Team Leadership & Engagement

Inspire, support, and lead diverse teams through motivation and culture.

• Leading & Motivating a Multigenerational Workforce – Laura Bartus

• Universal Orlando: Meeting the Leadership Challenge – Kirsten Abbott-West

• Guide Teams Through Change & Uncertainty with Adaptive Leadership – Olivia Savage

  
  

Performance & Process Excellence

Enhance operational success with smarter systems and stronger onboarding.

• Revolutionize Onboarding: Leveraging Analytics for Success – Taylor Woodyard

• Calculate Your Team’s Velocity & Project Complexity Using Agile Scrum – Penny Bonny and Lauryn Woodman

  
  

Gain Strategies from Your Peers

Hear sessions presented by other learning managers who have faced the same challenges that you have and overcome them, like: 

• Armando Contreraz, Manager of Training & Development, The Fort Worth Club 
• Kayla Delaney, Senior Manager of Learning Program Effectiveness, Walmart Health & Wellness 
• Dawn Peterson, Senior Manager, Learner Experience Design, Boston Scientific 
• John Reynolds, Manager of Learning and Development, Anderson Windows 
• Kelly Shambaugh, Senior Learning Program Manager, Farm Credit Mid-America 
• Cheryl Vilimek, Manager of Instructional Design, Advocate Health

    View all speakers

Build Your Manager Network

As a Mid-level Manager or Team lead, it’s crucial for you to talk with your peers to share strategies for team development, professional growth ideas, and more. At the Learning Leadership Conference, you’ll engage in networking events dedicated to helping you find other managers, including:

• Welcome Party – Right off the bat, we’ll help you find other managers that you can spend time with throughout the event, with facilitated networking in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.
• Leadership Insight Forums – These engaging discussions offer you the opportunity to hear perspectives from speakers and peers about topics relevant to your company.
• Lunch – We provide table placards in the lunch area to help you find like-minded professionals, turning lunch into another chance to share ideas and build your network.

See all networking opportunities

Find the Right Tools

At the L&D Solutions Gallery, you’ll discover new learning technologies, as well as strategies for workplace performance and talent development from leading consultants. You will have the opportunity to discuss your needs 1:1 with the solution providers and see insightful presentations on the Solutions Gallery stage. 

New leaders face unique challenges as you step into leadership roles, from building credibility and influencing teams to navigating organizational change and driving strategic initiatives. The Learning Leadership Conference equips you with tools and strategies to confidently navigate these challenges with sessions, networking opportunities, and solutions, like:  

Foundations for First-Time Leaders

Build confidence, core skills, and clarity in your new leadership journey.

• The Coaching Advantage: Helping First-Time Managers Thrive – Kelvin Jenkins

• A Roadmap for New L&D Leaders – Armando Contreraz

  
  

Creative & Purpose-Driven Leadership

Lead with innovation, intention, and a strong sense of personal style.

• Develop Innovative Leaders with the 4 Paradigms of Leadership – Anthony Salazar

• Brick by Brick: Building Better Leaders with Purposeful Play – Samantha Thomas and John Reynolds

• Innovative Minds @ Work: Integrating AI & Growth Mindset for Impact – Stacy McCracken

  
  

Connection & Emotional Intelligence

Foster trust, empathy, and belonging to elevate your leadership impact.

• High-Five Friday: How & Why to Establish Belonging and Connection with Stakeholders – Doug Zawisza

• Empathy: The Learning Leader’s Superpower – Barbara Lesniak

  
  

Gain Strategies from Your Peers

At the Learning Leadership Conference, you’ll meet our Thirty Under 30 Program participants and be inspired by the valuable work they’ve done early in their careers. You’ll have the opportunity to ask them about their accomplishments and learn how you can do the same. Here’s just a sample of our Thirty Under 30 honorees:

• Faith Brown, Operations Trainer, Westgate Resorts
• Katie Buckner, Specialist, Organizational & Leadership Development, MedVet
• Sabrina Cervantes Villa, Human-Centered Design Specialist, Global Learning Experience, Align Technology
• Ashley Cooks, Sr. Instructional Designer, The Home Depot
• Mickailynn Holman, Specialist – Training & Instructional Design, Maximus

  View all speakers

Build Your Learning Leader Network

As a new leader, it’s crucial for you to share ideas with your peers and also meet more established L&D leaders who can provide mentorship. At the Learning Leadership Conference, you’ll engage in networking events dedicated to helping you find both peers and potential mentors, including:

• Welcome Party – Right off the bat, we’ll help you find other leaders that you can spend time with throughout the event, with facilitated networking in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.
• Lunch – We provide table placards in the lunch area to help you find like-minded professionals, turning lunch into another chance to share ideas and build your network.
• Conversation Starters – Showcase your passions using the provided buttons to adorn your badge lanyard. These buttons will help you spark conversations with others who share your interests.

See all networking opportunities

Find the Right Tools

At the L&D Solutions Gallery, you’ll discover new learning technologies, as well as strategies for workplace performance and talent development from leading consultants. You will have the opportunity to discuss your needs 1:1 with the solution providers and see insightful presentations on the Solutions Gallery stage.

Aspiring leaders face unique challenges in today’s fast-evolving workplace, from navigating AI and automation constraints to ensuring teams have the skills they need for the future. The Learning Leadership Conference is designed to help you overcome these challenges with sessions, speakers, and networking opportunities, including:

Innovative Thinking & Continuous Learning

Fuel creativity, experimentation, and growth through modern learning mindsets.

• Igniting Critical Thinking, Curiosity & Creativity in the Workplace – Erin Donovan

• Experiment, Learn, Grow: A ‘Test & Learn’ Approach to L&D – Maggie Redling and Coleman Williams

• Maximize Learning Using Neuroscience – Steve Johnson

  
  

Collaborative Leadership & Culture Building

Shape environments where people connect, collaborate, and thrive together.

• Building a Thriving Organizational Culture: Strategies for Success – Genevieve Caplette

• Strengthen Communication & Collaboration: Leveraging Thought Diversity – Katherine Johnston, Daniel Cress, and Bjorn Ekelund

• Unlock the Power of Relational Capacity to Strengthen Workplace Bonds – Shantel Dixon

  
  

Purpose, Identity & Leadership Evolution

Elevate your impact by rethinking your role, brand, and strategic value.

• Use Systems Thinking to Build Your Personal Brand & Boost Your Impact – Andy Eninger

• Reimagine Your Role: Skills-Based Learning & Business Acumen – Elham Arabi

  
  

Gain Strategies from Your Peers

Hear sessions presented by other learning leaders at all levels who have faced the same challenges that you have and overcome them, like: 

• Kirsten Abbott-West, Director, Talent Development Leadership, Universal Destinations & Experiences – Orlando 
• Becky Burke, VP Learning & Strategic Development, BankWest, Inc 
• Kayla Delaney, Senior Manager of Learning Program Effectiveness, Walmart Health & Wellness 
• John Reynolds, Manager of Learning and Development, Anderson Windows 

View all speakers

Build Your Learning Leader Network

No matter your seniority, it’s crucial for you to share ideas with your peers and also connect with L&D leaders at all levels who can support you after the event. At the Learning Leadership Conference, you’ll engage in networking events dedicated to helping you build connections, including:

• Welcome Party – Right off the bat, we’ll help you find other leaders that you can spend time with throughout the event, with facilitated networking in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.
• Leadership Insight Forums – These engaging discussions offer you the opportunity to hear perspectives from speakers and peers about topics relevant to your company.
• Lunch – We provide table placards in the lunch area to help you find like-minded professionals, turning lunch into another chance to share ideas and build your network.

See all networking opportunities

Find the Right Tools

At the L&D Solutions Gallery, you’ll discover new learning technologies, as well as strategies for workplace performance and talent development from leading consultants. You will have the opportunity to discuss your needs 1:1 with the solution providers and see insightful presentations on the Solutions Gallery stage.

Top Talent from these Powerhouse Companies Attend Learning

Earn Recertification Credits

The Learning Leadership Conference program has been approved for 9.00 Credit Hours.

The Learning Guild has been pre-approved by the ATD Certification Institute to offer educational programs that can be used towards initial eligibility and recertification of the Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) and Associate Professional in Talent Development (APTD) credentials.