Schedule

Dates: September 23–24, 2026
Theme: We’ve Got Now. Next.

 

Day 1: Wednesday, September 23 – Leading in the Now

9:00 AM – Opening Keynote

We’ve Got Now: The Emerging Leader Moment
This keynote opens the conference by exploring why emerging leaders are essential in today’s evolving workplace. The session highlights the mindset, confidence, and leadership habits needed to step forward with impact in the present moment. Attendees will leave inspired to maximize current opportunities while building a foundation for long-term leadership success.


10:30 AM – Panel Discussion

From Potential to Impact: Stepping Into Leadership Now
Industry leaders share real-world insights on how rising professionals can turn potential into meaningful leadership influence. Topics include visibility, ownership, mentorship, navigating early-career growth, and building credibility within organizations. Participants will gain practical advice on moving from promise to performance while creating lasting impact.


12:00 PM – Lunch/Break


Concurrent Sessions I (1:30 PM – 2:45 PM)

Track A: Executive Presence for Today’s Workplace

This session focuses on building confidence, communication, and professional presence in real-world workplace environments. Attendees will learn strategies to strengthen credibility, communicate with clarity, and present themselves as capable leaders in meetings, projects, and team settings. Participants will leave with practical tools to enhance their leadership presence and professional impact.

Track B: Career Momentum and Personal Branding

A practical session designed to help emerging professionals position themselves for new opportunities through intentional career development and personal branding. Participants will explore networking strategies, defining their professional value, and building a leadership identity that supports long-term success. Attendees will leave with actionable tools to create momentum in their leadership journey.


Concurrent Sessions II (3:00 PM – 4:15 PM)

Track A: Leading Without the Title

This session explores how emerging leaders can create influence through initiative, collaboration, and problem-solving regardless of their position or title. Attendees will learn how to build trust, inspire others, and contribute meaningfully within teams and organizations. The session provides practical strategies for driving impact from any level of leadership.

Track B: High-Impact Skills for the Next Generation

Attendees will explore the leadership competencies shaping the future workplace, including adaptability, innovation, communication, and emotional intelligence. This session prepares emerging professionals to remain competitive and future-ready in rapidly evolving industries. Participants will leave with a clear understanding of the skills needed to lead successfully in the modern workforce.


4:30 PM – Day 1 Wrap-Up

Key takeaways from the day’s sessions and a preview of the future-focused leadership and recognition themes coming on Day 2.

Day 2: Thursday, September 24 – Preparing for What’s Next (Half-Day)

9:00 AM – Closing Keynote

Next: The Future of Leadership Starts With You
This keynote explores how leadership expectations are evolving across industries, workplaces, and generations. Attendees will gain insight into leading with agility, purpose, innovation, and long-term vision in a rapidly changing world. The session reinforces how emerging leaders can shape the future by taking action and embracing leadership opportunities today.


10:30 AM – Recognition Ceremony & Emerging Leaders Awards

We’ve Got Next: Rising Leaders, Lasting Impact
This closing ceremony celebrates emerging professionals and organizations making meaningful contributions to the future of leadership. The session honors excellence, highlights standout achievements, and recognizes individuals creating lasting impact within their industries and communities. Attendees will leave inspired, encouraged, and energized to continue advancing their leadership journey.


12:00 PM – Conference Concludes

Final reflections and closing remarks as the National Emerging Leaders Conference officially concludes.