Wednesday, October 16
Main Stage Speakers

Wednesday, October 16 | 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. CT

Leadership Conference 2024 is rooted in our ability to Rise Above. As Leaders, Southwest’s future depends on each of us thriving in our roles and effectively supporting, coaching, and caring for our People through a challenging and changing global landscape and industry. We'll hear inspiring talks on "Rising Above Conflict" from author Michael Bungay Stanier, "The Call to Rise Above" from Bob Jordan and Elizabeth Bryant, and "Rising Above Our Differences" from Denise Hamilton and Elle Clark. Whether joining us in person at Wings or tuning in virtually, you won't want to miss this empowering event!

Bob Jordan
Elizabeth Bryant
Denise Hamilton
Elle Clark
Michael Bungay Stanier

Wednesday, October 16 | 12:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. CT

We're excited to introduce breakout sessions this year, allowing Leaders to choose the learning path that best fits their unique needs and interests. SMC & Directors will spend the afternoon at TOPS for "Space to Mobilize: Motivating our Teams to Rise Above." All other attendees can select two one-hour sessions to attend, either on campus or virtually. These breakout sessions are a fantastic opportunity to join your fellow Leaders in the Wings Rooms, Freedom Hall, TOPS, or virtually to learn, connect, and grow!

Morra Aarons-Mele
Elizabeth Bryant
Whitney Eichinger
Bill Tierney
Jennifer Bridie
Jonathan Clarkson
Tony Roach
Bobby Loeb
Lauren Woods
Dr. Marcus Collins
Dr. Sean Martin

Thursday, October 17 | 9:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. CT

Day Two kicks off with our third and final round of breakout sessions. Leaders can either tune in virtually or select an in-person session to learn alongside their peers. Join Dr. Sean Martin in "Lead with Listening" in person at TOPS, or choose from our two hybrid sessions in Wings and Freedom Hall: "Quiet Power: Harnessing the Strength of Introverted Leadership" and "Ask Ops Anything."

Morra Aarons-Mele
Dr. Sean Martin
Justin Jones
Ashley Persons
Christi Paget
Kelly Tompkins
Pro Mahabir
Rachel Loudermilk
Will Abbott

Thursday, October 17 | 10:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. CT

Wrap up Leadership Conference with "Rising Above in Leadership," featuring a panel of six of our Executive Leaders. They’ll speak candidly and sincerely about their journeys into Leadership, sharing their stories, challenges, and lessons learned. This session is a fantastic opportunity to hear from those leading the way at Southwest and to gain valuable insights and inspiration for your Leadership path. Take advantage of this heartfelt and enlightening end to Leadership Conference 2024!

Andrew Watterson
Jason Van Eaton
Justin Jones
Linda Rutherford
Ryan Green
Tammy Romo
Kristi Owens