WLC 2025

Know Before You Go:  20th Annual Women’s Leadership Conference

This Thursday, hundreds of women and allies from across our region will gather at the Hickory Metro Convention Center for a full day of connection, learning, and growth at the 20th Annual Women’s Leadership Conference, presented by Catawba Valley Health System.
If you’re joining us, here’s what you can expect—and how to make the most of your experience.

1. A Day Designed to Help You Lead Authentically

Today’s business climate calls for leaders who are confident, emotionally intelligent, and grounded in their purpose. This conference is built around that vision. Every session is crafted to provide practical tools you can immediately apply in your work—and in your life.
Throughout the day, you’ll explore themes such as:

  • Fearless authenticity and owning your value as a leader
  • Building confidence and overcoming imposter syndrome
  • Maximizing productivity and time management
  • Mastering emotional intelligence
  • Thinking like a leader and elevating your mindset
  • Building resilience in the face of change
  • Creating future-focused, caregiver-supportive workplace cultures

2. Explore the Full Lineup: Map Out Your Day

Before you arrive, take a moment to explore the incredible lineup of speakers and sessions available. From powerful keynote presentations to a variety of breakout sessions for every stage of leadership, this conference offers meaningful opportunities to learn, grow, and connect.
Review each speaker’s biography to get familiar with their expertise, and browse session descriptions to identify the topics that best align with your goals for the day. Because breakout sessions are offered only once and are not recorded, planning ahead will help you make the most of your time with us.
You’ll find everything you need—including full bios, session details, and logistical information—on the Conference Event Page linked at the end of this post.

3. More Than a Conference: An Experience

Beyond the stage, the conference offers several ways to enrich your day:

  • Experience Center & Shop Local Marketplace – connect with exhibitors, explore local businesses, and build new relationships.
  • Quiet Room – recharge and refocus so you can stay fully engaged.
  • Mother’s Lounge – a private, comfortable space available for nursing mothers.
  • Digital Event Page – access session descriptions, speaker bios, and evaluations right from your phone using the event QR code.

We are grateful for the many sponsors and Chamber investors whose support makes this conference—and its impact—possible. Their investment helps advance a pro-business, pro-talent environment where women leaders can thrive. We encourage you to support those who support opportunities like this, designed with you in mind. Take a moment to review their listings and engage with them throughout the day.

4. Be Intentional

Whether you’re an emerging leader, entrepreneur, seasoned executive, or somewhere in between, your presence speaks to something significant: your commitment to your growth, your influence, and the future of our region.
Use this day to:

  • Set intentional goals for what you want to walk away with
  • Lean into conversations and connections with other attendees
  • Capture ideas to bring back to your team
  • Reflect on how you can lead more authentically and confidently

5. Ready to Explore More Details?

Access the full agenda, speaker lineup, event details, and all conference resources here:
👉 Click here to access the Women’s Leadership Conference Event Page
We can’t wait to welcome you to a day of fearless authenticity, renewed confidence, and meaningful connection at the 20th Annual Women’s Leadership Conference.

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