TrainingPros Sponsors ATD Houston Talent Development Conference 2025
The ATD Houston Talent Development Conference 2025 brought together professionals from across the region for a day of learning, networking, and forward-looking conversations about the future of workplace learning. With 176 participants registered, the conference offered a strong crowd and a vibrant energy that fueled each session. TrainingPros was proud to sponsor this annual gathering and to be part of the important conversations shaping the learning and development (L&D) profession.
A Strong Start with a Keynote on AI and the Workplace
The day began with an engaging keynote from Rob Lauber, former Chief Learning Officer of McDonald’s. Lauber, a recognized voice in the learning community, shared his perspective on how artificial intelligence is already reshaping the workplace. Rather than focusing on futuristic scenarios, his talk provided grounded, real-world examples of how companies are leveraging AI to streamline operations, enhance employee experiences, and build smarter, more adaptive learning programs.
For many attendees, this keynote was a highlight, both inspiring and practical. Lauber emphasized that learning and development professionals have an important role to play in helping organizations not only adopt new technologies, but also adapt workplace cultures to thrive alongside them. The conversation set the stage for a day of sessions that blended strategy with application.
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.
Four Tracks of Learning
The conference was thoughtfully organized into four tracks, ensuring participants could dive into the topics most relevant to their work:
- Functional Leadership – exploring what it takes to build and sustain effective leadership pipelines.
- Skills that Stick – focusing on methods and practices that ensure training translates into on-the-job performance.
- Designing for Impact – highlighting instructional design practices and tools that create measurable results.
- People First: Building Cultures for Tomorrow – addressing the human side of transformation, from inclusion to resilience.
The diversity of sessions allowed attendees to craft a day that matched their unique development goals, while also encouraging them to stretch into new areas of practice.
TrainingPros at the Conference
Representing TrainingPros were Chenier Mershon and Leigh Anne Lankford, who attended sessions across different tracks while also hosting our sponsor table. Having a visible presence at the event allowed us to connect with both potential clients and consultants, two groups at the heart of our business.
“We always enjoy meeting new people at these large chapter events,” said Lankford. “It’s energizing to hear directly from learning leaders about their challenges and also to connect face-to-face with consultants we’ve placed on projects. Those conversations remind us why we do what we do.”
The table was a hub of activity throughout the day. Attendees stopped by to ask about TrainingPros’ network of learning professionals, share stories about their current projects, and explore opportunities for future collaboration. For consultants in attendance, it was also a chance to reconnect with us and talk about their current client work through TrainingPros.
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.
Meeting Consultants Already Making an Impact
One of the most meaningful parts of the day was reconnecting with consultants already working on TrainingPros client projects. These conversations highlighted the value of partnership: consultants get to do impactful work with great organizations, and clients benefit from highly skilled professionals who can help them achieve their learning and performance goals.
Being able to share stories, celebrate successes, and discuss upcoming opportunities in person is a reminder of the strong community that surrounds our business. Events like ATD Houston’s conference provide a unique setting for those exchanges.
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.
Why Sponsorship Matters
Sponsoring the Talent Development Conference was an important decision for TrainingPros. As a woman-owned business specializing in contract staffing for learning and development, we believe in giving back to the professional community that makes our work possible. Supporting local ATD chapters and their events is one way we invest in the growth of the field and the professionals who drive it forward.
For attendees, sponsorship also means access to resources and conversations they might not otherwise have. TrainingPros’ presence helped shine a light on the importance of matching the right consultant to the right project, and the impact that has on organizations’ success.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 ATD Houston Talent Development Conference was a success in every way: a strong turnout, meaningful sessions, an inspiring keynote, and plenty of opportunities for connection. TrainingPros is proud to have been part of it and looks forward to continuing our support of the broader ATD community.
As the workplace continues to evolve, especially with the influence of artificial intelligence and the growing need for adaptable skills, events like this remain critical. They give talent development professionals the chance to learn from each other, share best practices, and prepare for the challenges ahead.
For TrainingPros, it’s also a reminder that our mission: “We make finding quality consultants easy.” remains as relevant as ever. We were thrilled to be part of the conversation in Houston and can’t wait to see how the ideas from this conference take shape in organizations across the region.
Creating Performance and Learning Objectives That Drive Results
Ready to Work with Us?
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.
