Attending ATD21 is more meaningful to me this year because I look forward to the opportunity to resume networking and engaging in meaningful conversations with my colleagues. Our industry came together amid a crisis and demonstrated perseverance. We took a risk, and we lead by example in executing unique and innovative ways to support those who develop the knowledge and skill of employees in organizations around the world. This is a cause for celebration and is what I am most grateful for with this year’s conference.

Donna Hailey

Houston Texas

ATD21@HQ

It was important for me to be part of this year’s conference so that I can spend time recharging my learning batteries (fill my cup) so that I can continue to pour into others’ cups. I also enjoy meeting with different vendors and learning what tools can help me do my job more effectively and efficiently.

Jodi Stende

Fargo, North Dakota

ATD21@HQ

As a member of the ATD Forum, attending ATD21 is important to me to renew connections with other Forum members and ATD staff. The conference also allows me to collaborate as well as share ideas and needs with other ATD members. It serves as my annual energy refresh in the profession and is my main professional development source. With the exception of last year, I have been to every ATD conference since 2002.

Jerry Kaminski

Grosse Pointe Park, Michigan

ATD21@HQ

I wouldn’t miss this! I love to learn and help others learn, and attending the ATD International Conference and EXPO is an integral part of who I am and what I do. This conference is the one conference where I can see and hear about everything from new trends and technologies to learning from some of the most-seasoned professionals so I can curate better learning opportunities for my organization.

Shelby Morris

Stillwater, Oklahoma

ATD21@Home

It’s always important for my development and the development of my team to continue to focus on our own growth and development. All too often, we equate ourselves to the likes of “the cobbler’s children who have no shoes”—we develop others but not ourselves. My mission is to shift that adage when we think of the talent development function to “the cobbler’s children wear Jimmy Choos.” A big part of that is attending this conference and networking—so much learning continues after the conference with continued conversations and connections. Additionally, it’s an opportunity to give back to the community by presenting at a couple different sessions as part of the ATD Forum and sharing our collective practices, including highlights from the book “Leading the Learning Function,” which over 50 of us collaborated on. And I really just wanted to be able to network in person again! I missed this amazing tribe of people!

Alissa Weiher

Denver, Colorado

ATD21@HQ