About our Keynote Address

The Skills-First Era: Redefining and Innovating L&D Strategies

Discover why traditional job roles are becoming obsolete and how a skills-first approach can unlock unprecedented agility, innovation, and employee engagement. Dr. Plunkett will share insights on how leading organizations are leveraging skills to make strategic decisions about work and workforce, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment that values individual capabilities over job titles.
Learn practical strategies to implement skills-based practices in your organization, from developing a robust skills taxonomy to utilizing AI-driven talent marketplaces. Understand the benefits of fractionalizing and broadening work, allowing employees to contribute their unique skills to projects and tasks that drive business outcomes.

This session will also address the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to a skills-based model, including overcoming legacy mindsets and integrating new technologies. Dr. Plunkett will provide actionable steps to start your journey towards a skills-first organization, ensuring your L&D strategies are aligned with the evolving demands of the modern workforce.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a competitive edge and be at the forefront of the skills revolution. Whether you’re an L&D professional, HR leader, or organizational strategist, this keynote will equip you with the knowledge and tools to redefine and innovate your learning and development strategies for the future. Join us and be part of the movement that is transforming the way we work and learn.

Dr. Cindy Plunkett, MET, Ph.D.

Dr. Cindy Plunkett is a distinguished leader in talent development, instructional design, and learning technologies, with over 20 years of experience. She currently serves as the Director of Talent Development & HR Technologies at PointClickCare, where she leverages her expertise to enhance learning & growth experiences in the healthcare & technology sector.

Cindy’s passion for education and technology is evident in her role as the Executive Director of the Canadian eLearning Conference, the first conference in Canada dedicated to workplace learning technologies. Her commitment to advancing the field is further demonstrated through her part-time professorship in the Faculty of Education at Ontario Tech University.

Throughout her career, Cindy has been a dedicated life-long learner, continuously seeking to bridge the gap between learning and technology. Her innovative approach has significantly impacted various organizations, helping them adopt and integrate effective learning solutions.
In addition to her professional roles, Cindy is actively involved in the learning community. She has contributed to numerous conferences and workshops, sharing her insights on instructional design, eLearning, and the future of education. Her work has been recognized for its excellence and impact, earning her a reputation as a thought leader in the industry.

Cindy holds a Doctorate in Education, underscoring her deep understanding of educational theories and practices. Her academic background, combined with her practical experience, allows her to design and implement cutting-edge learning strategies that meet the evolving needs of learners and organizations alike.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Cindy is known for her enthusiasm and dedication to fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth. She is a strong advocate for the transformative power of education and is committed to helping others achieve their full potential through innovative learning solutions.

Dr. Plunkett’s career is a testament to her unwavering dedication to the field of talent development and her ability to drive meaningful change through education and technology.