Young professionals from across the Commonwealth explored leadership in a changing workplace on Monday at the Kentucky Chamber’s 3rd Annual Young Professionals Summit, presented by Deloitte.
Speakers shared their perspectives on adapting to change, building strong relationships, and creating opportunities for others as young professionals take on leadership roles in their workplaces and communities.
Jordan Harris of Deloitte opened the Summit by highlighting the importance of attracting and retaining young professionals as Kentucky works to strengthen its workforce. Harris also stressed that the young professionals in the room are already leading, challenging the tendency to view them only as “future leaders.”
Kelsey Hargis of Independence Bank Named 2026 Young Professional of the Year
During the Summit, the Chamber named Kelsey Hargis, Community Enrichment Officer at Independence Bank, the 2026 Kentucky Chamber Young Professional of the Year.
A Henderson native, Hargis works with nonprofits, local businesses, and civic organizations through her role at Independence Bank. She also serves as Board Chair of the Henderson Chamber of Commerce and as a Henderson City Commissioner and Mayor Pro Tempore.
The other 2026 finalists were Tyler Burke of Columbia Gas of Kentucky, Maegan Mansfield of BFW/Marcum Engineering and Consulting, Aaron Marcus of Dentons, and Karan Shah of Physician Care Coordination Consultants.
The Chamber also recognized the inaugural members of its Next Generation Leadership Council, a statewide group created to engage young professionals in conversations about the issues affecting Kentucky’s economy, business community, and working families.
Navigating Change in the Workplace
Changes in technology and the adoption of artificial intelligence in the workplace are making career paths less predictable and requiring young professionals to continually build new skills.
Throughout the Summit, speakers emphasized that AI and new technology do not diminish the importance of human judgment and relationships. University of Louisville futurist Nat Irvin II described trust developed over time as “relational currency,” while AI strategist and engineer Chris Huber Reitz of Attainable AI encouraged young professionals to use technology as a tool while continuing to strengthen the skills that remain distinctly human.
As responsibilities grow, speakers also challenged young professionals to reconsider strategies that may have worked earlier in their careers. West of Perfection founders Erin Van De Voorde and Mary Katherine Wathen addressed burnout and why simply working harder is not always the answer. Be More Consulting CEO Colene Elridge explored how to make impactful decisions and adjust course, even when all the information is not available.
That was also reflected in the story of Dan-O’s Seasoning, a company that has quickly grown from a small Kentucky startup to a national brand. Founder Dan Oliver said that listening to customers, expanding into new sales channels, and seeking expertise he lacked were key parts of how the company grew. Oliver said his decision to bring in a business partner helped the company go from $200,000 in sales in 2019 to $60 million this year.
Building Relationships, Cultivating Leadership and Community
The power of relationships was a consistent focus throughout the Summit, both in building careers and creating opportunities for others.
That included ways to intentionally develop relationships with people who can help open doors and advance career goals. Louisville Metro Council Member and Essential Innovations CEO Ben Reno-Weber encouraged young professionals to become active in Kentucky’s business and civic networks, while Reitz discussed the value of both mentors, who provide guidance, and sponsors, who advocate for others.
Miss Kentucky 2025, Ariana Rodriguez, also highlighted how personal experiences can shape how people use their influence to help others. Rodriguez shared how the support she received while experiencing foster care and homelessness helped change the trajectory of her life. She encouraged attendees to consider how they can use their own influence and opportunities to make a difference.
Employers also have a role in developing leaders. Leaders from GE Appliances, Humana, Metro United Way, and Home of the Innocents highlighted community engagement as a way employees can develop skills outside their normal responsibilities while supporting their communities.
Panelists pointed to volunteer projects that allow employees to work across departments, manage resources, and take on leadership responsibilities. They also shared that working directly with nonprofit partners helps employees better understand community needs and how their efforts can make a meaningful difference. Employees who take on those leadership opportunities are often the ones who advance and grow in their careers, panelists said.
