SWLS 2025 Shines with Energy, Insights, and Community
The 2025 Southwest Learning Summit (SWLS) was one for the books. Held on September 30 in Dallas, this year’s gathering of over 300 learning and development professionals delivered everything we’ve come to expect and more. From thought-provoking keynotes to a sparkling silver theme that added a bit of flair to the day, SWLS once again proved why it’s one of the most anticipated events in the talent development community.
As a sponsor for the fifth year in a row, TrainingPros was proud to support the summit and connect with so many learning leaders, consultants, and industry peers. The event brought together hundreds of professionals eager to learn, network, and celebrate the evolving role of L&D in today’s rapidly changing workplace.
A Morning That Sparkled
The day opened with a burst of energy. The sparkling silver theme greeted attendees as they entered, setting the tone for a day full of learning, inspiration, and connection. A DJ kept the atmosphere lively between sessions, ensuring there was never a dull moment.
The first keynote came from Brandon Carson, a respected author and thought leader in the learning space. His session on Scaling to One in the Age of Super-Intelligence challenged attendees to think differently about the future of work. Carson emphasized the critical role of L&D professionals in preparing organizations for what’s ahead, making it clear that learning leaders are not just supporting business, they are a competitive advantage for the business.
This keynote set the stage for the day, reminding everyone why they had gathered: to explore how learning can drive performance and innovation.
A Personal Touch from TrainingPros
After the keynote, attendees were treated to a heartfelt talk by ATD Dallas Chapter President, Chenier Mershon, Relationship Manager with TrainingPros. Chenier combined personal stories with nostalgic music that tugged at heartstrings and sparked smiles across the room.
Her stories reminded the audience of the very human side of learning and how it touches lives, inspires growth, and connects us to one another. The addition of well-loved songs struck a chord. As one attendee remarked afterward, “When ‘Don’t Stop Believin’’ by Journey played, it brought back memories I hadn’t expected at a conference session. It was a powerful reminder that learning is about people, not just programs.”
That blend of emotion, storytelling, and music made Chenier’s short talk one of the most memorable sessions of the day.
Breakouts, Popcorn, and Panache
The breakout sessions at SWLS 2025 were rich with content, covering everything from new approaches to our jobs with AI to strategies for leadership development. Attendees walked away with practical insights and inspiration to bring back to their organizations.
Of course, conferences aren’t just about content, they’re also about community. SWLS delivered on that front too. Mid-afternoon, TrainingPros treated attendees to a popcorn break that became a fun talking point. And throughout the day, the sparkling silver décor and DJ kept the mood celebratory.
This year also included a creative way to ensure participants connected with all event sponsors: the chapter’s bingo card, a fun spin on the “passport to prizes” concept. Attendees stopped by each sponsor’s table to get their logo marked with a sticker, learning about the services and expertise available to their organizations along the way. The card kept the networking lively and made sure everyone discovered the full value the sponsors bring to the L&D community.
It was clear: SWLS wasn’t just an event. It was an experience.
Closing with a Call to Reframe
As the day wound down, the closing keynote from Kassy LaBorie challenged attendees to reframe their thinking in this age of change. The message was clear: we have to fuse humanity with the new technology to create powerful, meaningful moments at work.
This final keynote provided a thought-provoking bookend to the day, encouraging attendees to take what they had learned and apply it with courage and creativity.
A Celebration to Remember
After the sessions, the celebration continued. Attendees enjoyed cocktails, appetizers, and live music, the perfect opportunity to reflect on the day, reconnect with peers, and relax after a full program. It was a fitting end to an inspiring summit, proof that learning leaders know how to work hard and celebrate their successes together.
TrainingPros at SWLS 2025
As Platinum Sponsor, TrainingPros not only helped make the day possible but also added extra touches that made the event special.
- Raffle Giveaway: Congratulations to the lucky winner of the signed copy of Brandon Carson’s L&D’s Playbook for the Digital Age!
- Popcorn Break Sponsor: A simple but memorable way to recharge in the afternoon.
- Community Connection: With more than 28 years of experience connecting L&D consultants to client projects, TrainingPros was proud to celebrate the strength of this community.
President of TrainingPros Leigh Anne Lankford, reflected on the day:
“What stood out to me was the spirit of connection. From Brandon’s keynote to Chenier’s personal stories, and even to the simple joy of sharing popcorn, it was a reminder that our learning community is vibrant, supportive, and full of heart. TrainingPros is honored to play a role in bringing us together.”
Looking Ahead
SWLS 2025 may be over, but the impact will be carried forward in the projects, conversations, and relationships it inspired. TrainingPros is already looking forward to our sixth year of sponsorship in 2026 and to supporting even more opportunities for learning leaders and consultants to thrive.
Until then, we invite you to stay connected:
- For Learning Leaders: When you have more projects than people™, let TrainingPros find you the IDs, facilitators, eLearning developers, classroom producers, and more that you need to start your project with confidence.
- For Consultants: We help you find quality contract projects that match your expertise and set you up for success.
And for everyone: check out the Learning Leader Spotlight podcast, where we feature 20-minute conversations with learning executives across industries. Perfect for your next commute or coffee break.
- Raffle Giveaway: Congratulations to the lucky winner of the signed copy of Brandon Carson’s L&D’s Playbook for the Digital Age!
- Popcorn Break Sponsor: A simple but memorable way to recharge in the afternoon.
- Community Connection: With more than 28 years of experience connecting L&D consultants to client projects, TrainingPros was proud to celebrate the strength of this community.
President of TrainingPros and ATD Dallas, Leigh Anne Lankford, reflected on the day:
“What stood out to me was the spirit of connection. From Brandon’s keynote to Chenier’s personal stories, and even to the simple joy of sharing popcorn, it was a reminder that our learning community is vibrant, supportive, and full of heart. TrainingPros is honored to play a role in bringing us together.”
Conclusion
The 2025 Southwest Learning Summit wasn’t just another conference. It was a day of ideas, connection, and celebration. From Brandon Carson’s insights on the future of work to Chenier Mershon’s heartfelt stories, from popcorn breaks to live music, it captured everything that makes the L&D community so special.
TrainingPros is proud to be part of that story—and we can’t wait to see you again at SWLS 2026.
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Does your L&D team have more projects than people? TrainingPros has been named a Top 20 Staffing Company internationally by Training Industry, and recognized as a Smartchoice® Preferred Provider by Brandon Hall Group for 2025. We’re also proud to be named a Champion of Learning by the Association for Talent Development (ATD)—an international honor that reflects our dedication to excellence in corporate learning. These accolades underscore TrainingPros’ unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality, tailored training solutions.
If your projects need instructional designers, virtual classroom producers, facilitators, or other L&D consultants for your leadership development design projects, reach out to one of our industry-expert relationship managers today.
When you have more projects than people™, let TrainingPros find the right consultant to start your project with confidence. Schedule a consultation today.
