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Early Talent Summit
Join recruiters, talent development, hiring managers and HR professionals from across the Kansas City Region to discuss and share ideas, challenges and best practices for marketing to Gen Z, the future of work, early talent recruiting, and professional development.
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2026 Early Talent Summit
July 16, 2026 | 8:30am- 1:40pm | Free Event
Early Talent Summit is a must attend event for Campus Recruiters, HR Professionals, Program Leaders, and Hiring Managers committed to developing the next generation of talent.
Welcome to the 2026 Early Talent Summit!
Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Early Talent Summit—an in-person event designed to connect, inspire, and elevate the next generation of talent in the Kansas City region.
This year’s program features a keynote address from Danielle Hilton, Managing Director of TeamKC at the Kansas City Area Development Council. In her role, Danielle works with more than 300 companies across the region to showcase Kansas City to talent around the world and leads strategic efforts focused on attracting and retaining early career professionals. Her perspective on regional talent development and employer engagement will set the tone for a day focused on growth, opportunity, and connection.
Throughout the summit, attendees will also hear from additional speakers, participate in interactive workshops, and engage in meaningful networking with recruiters, talent development professionals, hiring managers, and HR leaders from across the Kansas City area.
Whether you’re looking to build your skills, gain insight from industry leaders, or expand your professional network, the Early Talent Summit offers a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and connect.
Mark your calendars—this is an event you won’t want to miss!
Questions? Email us at careerservices@umkc.edu
Agenda
08:30 AM - 08:50 AM
Check In & Light Breakfast
09:00 AM - 09:30 AM
Keynote: Danielle Hilton, Managing Director: Team KC, Kansas City Area Development Council
09:40 AM - 10:20 AM
Break Out Sessions
When Every Resume is Perfect, Now What?
Q&A With Danielle Hilton, our Keynote Speaker
Psychological Safety at Work - Why it Matters
Open Networking
10:30 AM - 11:10 AM
Break Out Sessions
Internships That Stick: Coaching and Developing the Next Generation Workforce
More Than Talent: How Universities can Meet Your Company's Broader Business Needs
The Human Advantage for Early Talent
Open Networking
11:20 AM - 12:00 PM
Break Out Sessions
More Program, Same Team: Growing Your Early Careers Program without Growing Headcount
Design the Environment, Change the Behavior
Your Cyber Future Starts Here: Pathways, Purpose and Opportunity in Kansas City
Open Networking
12:10 PM
Lunch & Networking
12:45 PM - 01:20 PM
Student & Alumni Panel
01:20 PM - 01:30 PM
Closing Session