Women in Learning & Development 2025

Women Lead in L&D, But Not in Leadership Roles

While women dominate the Learning & Development field, they hold fewer executive and decision-making positions compared to men in the industry.

The Promotion Gap

Women in L&D often face slower career progression, with fewer opportunities to step into leadership roles, despite their expertise and contributions.

Pay Inequity Persists

Even in a female-majority field, women earn significantly less than men, reinforcing the need for salary transparency and pay equity efforts.

Underrecognized Contributions

Women in L&D frequently take on emotional labor, mentorship, and community-building responsibilities that are essential but often unpaid or undervalued.

A Call for Change

Research shows that without proactive policies and cultural shifts, gender pay and leadership gaps in L&D will persist for another generation or more.

The Power of Representation

Studies show that when women are in leadership positions, organizations benefit from improved innovation, higher retention rates, and better workplace culture—proving that representation matters.

T. Fulya Eyupoglu

Monday, March 31 | 12pm PT/3pm ET

From Classroom to Boardroom: My Journey from Teaching to EdTech Entrepreneurship

Learn how a former science teacher embraced entrepreneurship to create Joyfully Learning. This session explores the mindset shifts, resilience, and risks involved in career transitions, highlighting the power of game-based learning and digital education in shaping meaningful learning experiences.

Robyn A. Defelice

Monday, March 31 | 2pm PT/5pm ET

Solving Problems, Not People: L&D Team Success

Discover your unique problem-solving style and how it impacts team dynamics. Learn to navigate style differences, reduce friction, and enhance collaboration. Through an assessment and hands-on activities, gain insights and strategies to work smarter with others—focusing on solving problems, not people.

Tracie Cantu

Tuesday, April 1 | 12pm PT/3pm ET

Breaking the Silence: Pay Equity and Transparency for Women in L&D

Despite growing numbers, women in L&D still face pay inequities and lack salary transparency. This session explores why pay equity matters, the impact of undervaluing “helper” roles, and practical steps women can take to advocate for fair compensation—for themselves and the profession as a whole.

Poonum Desai

Wednesday, April 2 | 8am PT/11am ET

A Team Is Only As Psychologically Safe As Their Manager Is

Psychological safety starts within. This session explores how emotional intelligence, empathy, and self-awareness shape safer, stronger teams. Learn to overcome internal and organizational barriers, address burnout, and practice daily EQ skills to build a sustainable, high-performing team culture where everyone feels seen, supported, and empowered.

Sarah Syed

Wednesday, April 2 | 10am PT/1pm ET

Leading with Empathy: How Women in L&D Shape Inclusive Learning Cultures

Empathy is key to inclusive learning—and women in L&D are uniquely equipped to lead the way. This session explores the science of empathetic leadership, its impact on learning culture, and practical strategies to design and advocate for equitable, learner-centered experiences that drive real organizational change.

Laura Goldstone

Thursday, April 3 | 8am PT/11am ET

Marketing Lessons That Will Boost Your L&D Efforts

Learn how to apply key marketing principles—like brand identity, audience empathy, and content strategy—to strengthen your L&D programs. This session offers practical tips to boost engagement, clarify your value, and build a strong learning culture through proven marketing techniques.

Diana Graham

Thursday, April 3 | 10am PT/1pm ET

The 3C's of Empowering Women in Learning & Development

Celebrate the impact of women in L&D and reconnect with your purpose. This session offers space to sharpen your vision, amplify your leadership through communication, and build uplifting connections—empowering you to continue driving growth, transformation, and innovation with clarity and confidence.

Michelle Engstrom

Thursday, April 3 | 12pm PT/3pm ET

Graphic Design is Accessibility

Is accessibility at odds with good design? Not at all. This interactive session shows how graphic design and digital accessibility share the same goal—effective communication. Learn simple, practical strategies and real-life examples to create content that’s both visually appealing and accessible to all.

Lisa Hartman

Friday, April 4 | 8am PT/11am ET

Bringing Corporate Learning Strategies to Academia

Lisa Hartman shares her experience building a new office at Vanderbilt University that integrates commercial learning into an academic setting. She’ll highlight key successes, challenges, and lessons learned from bridging two distinct learning worlds.

Margie Meacham

Friday, April 4 | 10am PT/1pm ET

Leading Through Disruption: How Women in L&D Can Leverage AI as a Career Catalyst

Explore how women in L&D can turn AI disruption into opportunity. Learn practical strategies to integrate AI, boost strategic value, and confidently lead change. This session offers real-world insights and a personalized action plan to help you thrive in the evolving learning landscape.