Connect with HR and Rewards professionals driving workplace strategy across Ohio and the Midwest through two days of thought leadership, peer learning, and networking.
The workplace continues to evolve, bringing new expectations around compensation, benefits, well-being, AI, leadership, and the employee experience. Organizations across Columbus and the Midwest are looking for practical ways to attract, engage, reward, and retain talent in an increasingly complex environment.
The WorldatWork Summit in Columbus brings together HR and Rewards professionals for two days of learning, collaboration, and connection, all focused on the issues shaping today's workforce and tomorrow's workplace.
Designed specifically for professionals in HR, Rewards, compensation, benefits, employee experience, and people leadership roles, the Summit offers an opportunity to learn from practitioners, industry experts, and peers who understand the unique opportunities and challenges facing employers across Ohio and the Midwest.
Whether you're looking to solve today's workforce challenges, build new skills, or expand your professional network, you'll leave with actionable ideas and valuable new connecti.
Plus, you can earn recertification credits, making it a meaningful investment in your professional development.
Who Should Attend?
The Columbus Summit is designed for professionals responsible for shaping the employee experience, including:
- HR Leaders and Generalists
- Rewards Professionals
- Compensation Professionals
- Benefits Leaders
- Talent and Employee Experience Leaders
- HR Business Partners
- People Managers and Organizational Leaders
Join HR and Rewards professionals from across Columbus and the Midwest for two days of practical learning, meaningful networking, and actionable insights.
Why Attend?
You will explore how HR and rewards is shaping the future of work and dive deep into the latest trends, strategies, tools and skills to help engage the evolving workforce.
Learn from HR and Rewards Leaders
Hear directly from experienced practitioners, consultants, and industry experts who are shaping the future of work and helping organizations navigate today's most pressing people challenges.
Explore topics including:
- Compensation strategy and pay transparency
- Benefits engagement and financial well-being
- AI and technology in HR and Total Rewards
- Leadership development and workplace culture
- Employee experience and belonging
- Performance management and workforce effectiveness
Practical Ideas You Can Use Immediately
Every session is designed to provide actionable insights, real-world examples, and proven strategies that can be applied within your organization.
Leave with fresh ideas and practical solutions to help strengthen your rewards programs, support employees, and drive business results.
Connect With Your Regional HR and Rewards Community
One of the most valuable aspects of the Columbus Summit is the opportunity to connect with HR and Rewards professionals from organizations throughout Ohio and across the Midwest.
Share challenges, exchange best practices, and build relationships with peers who understand your market, your workforce, and the realities of today's workplace.
From networking receptions to interactive discussions, the Summit is designed to encourage meaningful conversations and lasting professional connections.
Future of Work Insights
Explore the latest trends in executive rewards, compensation, benefits, and employee well-being to stay ahead in today’s dynamic talent landscape.
Two Days Focused on Leading and Rewarding People
Day 1: Leading People
The Summit begins with a keynote from Dr. Scott Cawood, CEO of WorldatWork, on Bringing Great Work to Life, followed by sessions exploring leadership, culture, employee experience, workplace well-being, and practical applications of AI.
Day 2: Rewarding People
Day two focuses on compensation, benefits, financial wellness, performance management, and emerging trends influencing the future of Total Rewards and the Midwest workplace.
The Summit concludes with a community conversation focused on what's next for HR and Rewards professionals across the region.
You'll Leave With:
- Practical strategies you can apply immediately
- Fresh perspectives on today's biggest workplace challenges
- Insights from experienced HR and Rewards leaders
- Expanded connections with professionals across Columbus and the Midwest
- New ideas to help attract, retain, and engage talent
- Recertification credits to support your professional growth
Sponsors
VISIONARY
CHAMPION
LEADER
TABLETOP
FAQs & Policies
The WorldatWork Columbus Summit is Tuesday, October 20, 2026 - Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at the Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel, 50 North 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215.
Yes! We offer team discounts for groups of 3 of more from the same company. Please reach out to teamtraining@worldatwork.org for more information.
All cancellations must be submitted in writing to customerexperience@worldatwork.org. You may cancel for a full refund by September 21, 2026. No refunds will be offered after that date. Please contact customerexperience@worldatwork.org with any questions.
To review all WorldatWork policies that apply to this conference, please see our Event Policy page.