Keynote Speakers
Brad Shuck
Tuesday | August 26 | 12:30 p.m.
Built by Us: How HR Is Leading the Future of Work
sponsored by MetLife
The future of work isn’t something we’re waiting on—it’s something we’re building. Today. The choices we make. How we show up. How we connect. How we see others. In real time.
Human Resources isn’t reacting to change anymore. We’re leading it.
From shifting career paths to the acceleration of upskilling, from the rise of personal branding to the emergence of regenerative work models, we are standing at one of the most exciting—and hopeful—moments in the history of work. And we’re doing it together.
This is the future of work. And Human Resources is not just relevant—you—we—are essential to driving the conversation forward. We are the leaders.
In this keynote, Dr. Brad Shuck brings research, real stories, and lived experience to show how the human side of work—belonging, purpose, flexibility, and connection—isn’t a luxury. It’s the strategy. And you are already at the center of it.
You’ll leave reminded of your why—and reenergized to lead with boldness, empathy, and joy. This session is about more than trends. It’s about reclaiming the soul of our work. It’s about optimism. It’s about hope. It’s about designing what comes next—together.
This is about the future of work.
Eric Williamson
Wednesday | August 27 | 8:45 a.m.
How to Work with Jerks: Creating Inclusive, Collaborative, and Conflict-Free Work Environments
sponsored by Kentucky Career Center
This session is designed to be interactive, practical, and fun—full of real-time exercises, collaborative discussions, and ready-to-use strategies. It builds naturally from the keynote and gives attendees more time to deepen the learning and walk away with tools they can immediately apply in their organizations.
Carol Schulte
Thursday | August 28 | 11:30 a.m.
Get Your Brave On: Empowering HR Professionals to Lead with Courage, Authenticity, and Impact
sponsored by Hanna Resource Group
In today’s HR landscape—where change is constant, complexity is rising, and burnout is real—the demand for courageous leadership has never been greater. This keynote is more than just a presentation; it’s a powerful invitation for HR professionals to step into their brave and drive meaningful change, from the inside out.
Carol invites participants to explore the B.R.A.V.E. Leadership Model and overcome the internal and external barriers that often hold us back—like perfectionism, people-pleasing, and fear of failure. Whether you’re leading a department, advocating for employee well-being, or navigating organizational transformation, brave leadership starts with the decision to show up fully and
speak up boldly.
You’ll walk away with practical strategies to build confidence, expand your influence, and lead with authenticity—while fostering a culture of trust, empowerment, and resilience. Because in HR, the bravest leaders aren’t the loudest—they’re the ones who show up with heart, take action before they feel ready, and inspire others to do the same.