We’re so excited to welcome you to the 25th Silver Anniversary of the Southwest Learning Summit (SWLS) hosted by ATD Dallas! Whether you’re a long-time attendee or it’s your first time joining us, here’s everything you need to know before you head to the Plano Event Center on Tuesday, September 30.
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Conference General Agenda
- 7:15 am - 12:00 pm | Registration
- 8:00 am - 4:30 pm | Conference
- 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm | Silver Celebration Happy Hour
VIEW THE AGENDA We’ve got a packed day of learning, networking, and professional growth ahead! Click here to view a detailed agenda.
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EVENT LOCATION
Plano Event Center
2000 East Spring Creek Parkway, Plano, TX 75074
Parking Information
There is plenty of free parking at the Plano Event Center. We recommend parking on the east side of the building and entering through the east entrance for easiest access to registration and event spaces.
Registration and Check-In
Head to the Main Hallway for check-in when you arrive. If you haven’t registered yet, onsite registration is also available during this time. The first session, featuring Keynote Speaker Brandon Carson, kicks off at 8:10 a.m. on the Main Stage!
WHOVA
In the Whova app, search for Southwest Learning Summit and then enter the event invitation code, ATD2025SWLS .
With Whova you will be able to:
- ACCESS the event agenda and SCHEDULE your sessions.
- Receive ANNOUNCEMENTS from organizers.
- EXPLORE the profiles of speakers, sponsors, and attendees.
- NETWORK with other attendees with common affiliations, educations, shared networks and social profiles.
- SEND in-app messages and EXCHANGE contact info.
- PARTICIPATE in event activities, contests, comments, ratings and live polling.
Discover more about Whova via their online Attendee Guide. You can also access the web app version of Whova for this event.
Download Whova here: Whova Web App
Wi-Fi
Free high-speed Wi-Fi will be available throughout the building.
- Network: Announced On-site
- Password: SWLS2025
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Temperature
The Plano Event Center can get downright chilly, so plan accordingly! Bring a jacket or sweater if needed for comfort.
Business Cards
If you got 'em, bring 'em! Trade business cards with our sponsors or while networking during the event.
Note-Taking "Device"
Bring your laptop, tablet, portfolio, or notebook for all of your copious notetaking!
Device Charging Cords
There are free charging stations in the hallways! Bring your charging cable just in case you need it.
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Digital Program
Download Whova to view the event agenda, review session details and speaker bios, and to build your personal agenda.
Sponsor Booths
We couldn’t make this event happen without the generous support of our sponsors, and we encourage you to take advantage of the time built into the schedule to connect with them. Our sponsors offer valuable services and products designed to support Talent Development professionals like you, and they bring a wealth of industry knowledge. Be sure to stop by, learn more, and talk shop—they’d love to connect with you!
Visit each sponsor to complete the Sponsor Activity card -- visit all of our sponsors during the day for the chance to win a $50 gift card!
Professional Headshots (Sponsored by Trinity River Authority)
Head to Spring Glade between 9:30 am and 12:00 pm to get your headshot taken. Cost is FREE, courtesy of Trinity River Authority.
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Accessibility
It is our intention to create an inclusive, accessible environment to support the needs of all attendees. To request a specific accommodation please contact us at swls@tddallas.org by Friday, September 26, 2025.
ADA Compliance
Single-level Plano Event Center has accessible restrooms facilities, drinking fountains and power-assist entrance doors. The facility is easily accessed from public sidewalks and parking areas. Designated parking for the disabled is available on the east and west sides of the facility, as are van and bus accessible loading zones.
Animals
Service and/or guide animals are permitted at all times. Animals whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA. Prior approval by the Plano Event Center Manager is required for all non-service animals, so please contact us at swls@tddallas.org to submit a request.
The Mother’s Room
A private and conveniently located space has been dedicated to support lactation needs. Several pumping stations supplied with electrical outlets and equipment are included in this space. Storage containers are not included. Please inquire about the location upon check-in.
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Breakfast
Enjoy the breakfast buffet available from 7:15 - 9:15am.
Lunch & Dessert
Our fantastic lunch buffet will be served from 12:00 - 12:45pm. Dessert will be served during the afternoon break with our sponsors from 2:40 - 3:10pm.
Refreshments
Water, coffee, tea, and soda will be available throughout the day. There will be a coffee break from 10:40-11:00 when you can get coffee and use your time to visit with our Sponsors and complete your Activity card!
Happy Hour
Cap off #SWLS2025 with a special Silver Celebration in Windhaven from 4:30 - 6:30pm. Join us for networking, live music, and some fun prizes! Drink tickets redeemable for beer, wine, and mocktails will be provided. Please note, tickets cannot be replaced and there will be no cash bar available.
PRO TIPS TO MAKE YOUR DAY COUNT
- Bring business cards – this is a great opportunity to grow your network.
- Dress is business casual – and don’t forget a layer for those cool meeting rooms.
- Use the hashtag #SWLS2025 to connect with other attendees on social media.
- Write it down – Bring your laptop, tablet, portfolio or notebook for all of your copious note-taking.
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Celebrating Our #SWLS2025 Sponsors!
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