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Top 20 HR Conferences to Learn and Connect in 2025

Finn Bartram
By
Finn Bartram
Finn Bartram Editor

Finn is an editor at People Managing People. He's passionate about growing organizations where people are empowered to continuously improve and genuinely enjoy coming to work. If not at his desk, you can find him playing sports or enjoying the great outdoors.

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Last updated on Jan 15, 2025
QUICK SUMMARY

There's so much to be gained from attending a conference—from sharing knowledge to connecting with other passionate individuals. Here's our pick of the best HR conferences to learn and connect.

Hr conferences generic best of

Looking for HR conferences to attend this year and 2025? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the best upcoming conferences to help inspire you and expand your network in 2025.

See below for conference information, dates, and pricing. Be sure to snag any early bird tickets before they’re gone!

Best HR Conferences in 2025 Shortlist

Here's my shortlist of the best HR conferences in 2025:

  1. IRL - Alberta, Canada (October 1-4, 2025)
  2. Talent Acquisition Week 2025 - San Diego, CA (February 3-6, 2025)
  3. i4cp 2025 Next Practices Now Conference - Scottsdale, AZ (March 3-6, 2025)
  4. HR West 2025 - Oakland, CA (March 11-12, 2025)
  5. Transform 2025 - Las Vegas, NV (March 17-19, 2025)
  6. SHRM Talent Conference & Expo 2025 - Nashville, TN (March 24-26, 2025)
  7. 2025 Tri-State SHRM Conference - Uncasville, CT (April 28-30, 2025)
  8. SPARK HR 2025 - Lake Buena Vista, FL (April 30-May 5, 2025)
  9. 2025 California HR Conference - Anaheim, CA (May 4-6, 2025)
  10. Unleash America - Las Vegas, NV (May 6-8, 2025)
  11. Workhuman Live 2025 - Gaylord Rockies, CO (May 12-15, 2025)
  12. ATD 2025 International Conference & Expo - Washington, DC (May 18-21, 2025)
  13. Irresistible 2025 - Los Angeles, CA (May 19-21, 2025)
  14. SHRM25 -  San Diego, CA (June 29-July 2, 2025)
  15. Gulf Coast Symposium on HR Issues 2025 - Houston, TX (July 30-31, 2025)
  16. Responsive Conference - Oakland, CA (September 17-18, 2025)
  17. 2025 Ohio HR Conference - Sandusky, OH (September 24-26, 2025)
  18. HR Healthcare 2025 - Boston, MA (October 6-7, 2025)
  19. Excel HR Conference - (October 7-10, 2025)
  20. Gartner HR Symposium/Xpo™ - Orlando, FL (October 27-29, 2025)

Overview of the Best HR Conferences of 2025

Below are my summaries of the best HR conferences that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a look at each event’s dates, location, pricing, and unique offerings.

1. IRL - Alberta, Canada (October 1-4, 2025)

IRL HR conference
IRL conference (Source)
  • Dates: October 1-4, 2025
  • Location: Alberta, Canada
  • Pricing: Starts at $2,950
  • Website: IRL Conference

Overview:
The IRL 25 conference is an exclusive and immersive event for SaaS executives scaling their businesses from millions to billions in revenue. It's for leaders scaling up post-Series B, and the conference will cover challenges including product-market fit, go-to-market strategies, customer retention, leadership hiring, and scaling infrastructure.

IRL is a conference designed for participation. Participants engage in tailored tracks, collaborative workshops, expert-led discussions and masterminds while enjoying outdoor adventures and gourmet dining experiences together.

Why You Should Attend:
The IRL conference stands out due to its unique approach to outdoor programming and building in-person engagement. It's also by application only to ensure a high quality of attendees. This one-of-a-kind event forgoes the typical conference format—it's participant-driven, with a carefully selected roster of SaaS executives who form an exclusive network that help each other take their business to the next level.

The IRL conference offers a rare chance to build relationships with like-minded leaders in a refreshing environment away from the usual hustle. If you’re part of an exec team at a SaaS company driving growth beyond $10m ARR, IRL is for you.

2. Talent Acquisition Week 2025 - San Diego, CA (February 3-6, 2025)

Talent Acquisition Week speaker
Talent Acquisition Week (Source)

Overview:
This conference is a great opportunity for HR and business leaders to learn about the future of recruiting. TA Week offers a chance for in-person networking and will give you access to sourcing, recruiting, and employer branding best practices. 

Why You Should Attend:
Experience a blend of insightful talks, hands-on workshops, and engaging networking opportunities tailored for recruitment professionals. Explore the future of HR with cutting-edge HR tech, innovative talent sourcing methodologies, marketing strategies, and candidate engagement techniques. You must attend this conference to supercharge your talent acquisition and employee engagement strategies, enhance recruitment skills, and connect with industry peers.

3. i4cp 2025 Next Practices Now Conference - Scottsdale, AZ (March 3-6, 2025)

i4cp 2025 Next Practices Now Conference
i4cp 2025 Next Practices Now Conference (Source)

Overview:
​​This expo promotes networking with peers—there are no vendors, consultants, or tradeshow—discovering the next best practices in human resource management, and navigating today’s challenges to capitalize on future human capital. 

Attending this conference provides the opportunity to connect with 500+ CHROs without distractions (and sales pitches) and learn how you can improve employee experience, retention and, by extension, workplace culture.

Why You Should Attend:
Join over 500 HR leaders in a unique setting focused on actionable insights and future-forward strategies. Engage with sessions on AI integration and workforce resilience, enhancing your team's capabilities. Networking opportunities abound with peers and industry experts, fostering meaningful connections.

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4. HR West 2025 - Oakland, CA (March 2025)

HR West 2025 conference landing page
HR West 2025 (Source)

Overview:

The HRWest Conference is famous as a conference to attend to find out the latest trends in HR, issues, challenges, and solutions.

Last year’s event had over 80 speakers sponsored sessions, 60+ roundtables, and 4 keynotes, so there are a lot of conversations and learnings to be had. Attendees also earn 10 credits toward their certification.

Why You Should Attend:
Participate in diverse sessions spanning HR strategy, technology, and DEIB, helping your team stay ahead in a dynamic field. Connect with over 1,000 professionals and explore solutions with 80+ exhibitors. Engage in valuable discussions and networking opportunities to enrich your HR practices.

5. Transform 2025 - Las Vegas, NV (March 17-19, 2025)

Transform 2025 HR conference
Transform 2025 (Source)

Overview:
Transform 2025 is designed for leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors aiming to drive change in work cultures. The conference began as a platform for innovation and collaborative solutions. Notable speakers like Farah Bernier, HR VP at The Walt Disney Studios; Donald Knight, GSVP at Warner Bros Discovery; and more lead the discussions.

Why You Should Attend:
Explore transformative ideas and strategies for the future of work with over 350 expert speakers. Participate in interactive discussions, workshops, and networking events tailored for leaders and innovators. Enjoy unique experiences like a puppy lounge and a vibrant after-party while connecting with peers and discovering emerging technologies.

6. SHRM Talent Conference & Expo 2025 - Nashville, TN (March 24-26, 2025)

SHRM Talent Conference & Expo 2025 event details
SHRM Talent Conference & Expo 2025 (Source)

Overview:
This an opportunity to discover new ways and tactics to put skills-development, including integrating AI, at the forefront of your talent management processes to empower your organization and succeed in an ever-evolving job market.

“Content tracks” include AI & human ingenuity, career arcs, skill-first talent development, talent selection and workforce planning & analytics. 

You'll also have ample opportunities to connect with and learn from the brightest minds in recruiting and talent management, refresh your best practices, and discover how to reach untapped or underleveraged talent pools while retaining your high performers.

Why You Should Attend:
Engage in sessions that address the latest in AI integration and skills-first talent development. Network with HR peers and leaders to exchange insights and strategies. Access in-person and virtual sessions designed to meet the evolving expectations of candidates and enhance your recruiting efficiency.

7. 2025 Tri-State SHRM Conference - Uncasville, CT (April 28-30, 2025)

2025 Tri-State SHRM Conference
2025 Tri-State SHRM Conference (Source)

Overview:
Over 25 HR thought leaders will come together in this New England conference to help HR executives gain insights on and address the realities of the future of work.

You’ll be able to dive in and discuss HR strategy, talent acquisition, engagement, learning and development, and DEI with 400 human resource professionals from the New England area and over 60 exhibitors. 

Why You Should Attend:
Dive into cutting-edge HR practices with industry leaders at this premier event. Enjoy a mix of educational sessions, networking, and entertainment in a vibrant setting. Whether you're advancing your career or exploring new HR strategies, this conference provides the tools and connections you need.

8. SPARK HR 2025 - Lake Buena Vista, FL (April 30-May 2, 2025)

SPARK HR 2025 conference
SPARK HR 2025 (Source)

Overview:
The SPARK HR 2025 conference is designed for HR professionals aiming to enhance employee engagement and retention. Organized by the Human Capital Institute, it brings together industry leaders to share insights on innovative HR practices and technologies. 

Some of the most notable speakers include Tyrese Manigault, Manager of Employee Engagement at NASCAR; Angela Cheng-Cimini, Senior Vice President and Talent and Chief Human Resources Officer at Harvard Business Publishing; Mick Clancy, SPHRi, Global Head of People Product at Kraft Heinz; and more.

Why You Should Attend:
Engage with top HR leaders in workshops focused on employee experience and engagement strategies. Learn about cutting-edge tools and non-monetary reward systems to motivate your team. The conference emphasizes building a feedback-rich environment and career progression paths, helping you address current HR challenges effectively.

9. 2025 California HR Conference - Anaheim, CA (May 4-6, 2025)

2025 California HR Conference landing page
2025 California HR Conference (Source)

Overview:
The 2025 California HR Conference is tailored for HR professionals focusing on California's complex legal landscape and workplace culture. It began as a platform for sharing insights on local employment laws and strategic HR practices. Notable past speakers have included industry leaders and legal experts.

Why You Should Attend:
Enhance your understanding of California employment law and strategic HR practices through specialized tracks. Participate in sessions on diversity, equity and inclusion, HR technology, and leadership. Earn recertification credits while networking with other HR professionals, and explore both in-person and virtual attendance options.

10. Unleash America - Las Vegas, NV (May 6-8, 2025)

Unleash America page screenshot
Unleash America conference (Source)

Overview:
Billed as ‘The International Festival of HR’, this event brings together pretty much all the biggest organizations in America, from Google to NASA, for a series of presentations, networking opportunities, and demonstrations of the latest HR software like employee recognition platforms. 

This year's speakers include Alexis Bonnell, the CIO and Director of the Digital Capabilities Directorate at the Air Force Research Laboratory; Jason R. Desentz, CHRO at Toshiba; Emilee DeMartino, SVP and Chief People Officer for International Markets at McDonald’s; and more, so it goes big!

Why You Should Attend:
Explore cutting-edge HR trends and technologies at Unleash America 2025. Engage with thought leaders and industry pioneers in a dynamic environment. The conference offers an expanded expo featuring tech innovations and provides ample networking opportunities to connect with global HR leaders. Enjoy special hotel savings, enhancing both your learning and stay experience.

11. Workhuman Live 2025 - Gaylord Rockies, CO (May 12-15, 2025)

Workhuman Live 2025 page
Workhuman Live 2025 conference (Source)

Overview:
This 3.5-day conference brings industry leaders and HR managers together to share their unfiltered thoughts to tackle the workforce’s biggest challenges and shape the future of work. 

The aim is to help build the future of talent management with extensive sessions, keynotes, workshops, and special events. 

Attendees also earn 16 SHRM, 16 HRPA, 16 APTD, 16 WorldatWork, and 13.25 HRCI credits.

Why You Should Attend:
Join fellow HR professionals in exploring strategies to foster a culture of recognition and engagement. Participate in workshops that offer actionable insights into boosting employee morale and productivity. Network with industry peers and thought leaders in a collaborative setting that emphasizes human connection and innovation.

12. ATD 2025 International Conference & Expo - Washington, DC (May 18-21, 2025)

ATD International Conference & Expo partipcants
ATD International Conference & Expo participants (Source)

Overview:
The Association for Talent Development (ATD) hosts conferences to empower HR professionals, team leaders, L&D practitioners, and CTOs. 

This event brings together industry professionals from more than 80 countries to connect and discuss the latest industry topics and discover new solutions on the huge EXPO floor.

This conference provides the space for the attendees to learn, reconnect, recharge, and network in a vibrant community.

Why You Should Attend:
Join a global community of L&D professionals to explore innovative strategies and practices. The conference offers a variety of learning tracks tailored to different interests and expertise levels, ensuring relevance to your needs. Engage with industry peers and leaders in a dynamic environment designed to inspire and inform. I couldn't find specific information about the "Irresistible 2025" conference. 

13. Irresistible 2025 - Los Angeles, CA (May 19-21, 2025)

Irresistible 2025
Irresistible 2025 conference (Source)
  • Dates: May 19-21, 2025
  • Location: Los Angeles, CA
  • Pricing: Starts at $1,799
  • Website: Irresistible 2025

Overview:
Irresistible 2025 is aimed at HR professionals seeking to delve into innovative HR practices. It started as a platform for sharing cutting-edge HR insights and shaping a forward-thinking HR vision. Past speakers have included renowned industry leaders, offering valuable perspectives on creating an engaging work environment.

Why you should attend:
Explore innovative HR strategies and network with peers in an immersive virtual setting. This event offers interactive sessions and expert-led discussions tailored to your professional growth. It’s an opportunity to gain insights into future HR trends, wellness, change management, and competency development.

14. SHRM25 - San Diego, CA (June 29-July 2, 2025)

SHRM25 conference
SHRM25 conference (Source)

Overview:
A major event on many HR professionals’ calendars, SHRM25 is sure to be a big one. With 375+ education sessions to choose from, you can select sessions that are most beneficial to you, your team, and your organization.

Sessions are a mix of discussions, practical workshops, and keynotes covering everything from emerging regulations, managing diverse workforces, new HR technologies, and the latest best practices reshaping the HR field.

You’ll have the opportunity to network with thought leaders and HR professionals from around the globe, share experiences, and gather actionable strategies to take back to your organization. Also, if you’re SHRM-certified you’ll get 28+ PDCs towards your recertification!

Why You Should Attend:
Engage in a diverse range of sessions that cover the latest HR trends and innovations. The conference offers both in-person and virtual attendance options, providing flexibility to suit your needs. Network with peers and gain insights from industry experts to help advance your career and improve your organization's HR practices.

15. Gulf Coast Symposium on HR Issues 2025 - Houston, TX (July 30-31, 2025)

Gulf Coast Symposium on HR Issues 2025
Gulf Coast Symposium on HR Issues 2025 conference (Source)

Overview:
The Gulf Coast Symposium on HR Issues 2025 is a prominent event for HR professionals in the region, providing insights into the latest HR trends and legal updates. It caters to HR practitioners seeking to enhance their knowledge and network with peers. The symposium often features notable speakers from various sectors.

Why You Should Attend:
Participate in sessions that cover critical HR topics, from legal updates to technology trends. The symposium offers networking opportunities with local and regional HR experts. Attendees can also gain valuable insights into best practices and innovative strategies tailored for the Gulf Coast region.

16. Responsive Conference - Oakland, CA (September 17-18, 2025)

Responsive Conference participants
Responsive Conference (Source)

Overview:
The Responsive Conference 2025 is designed for CEOs, founders, and HR leaders focused on behavior change in the workplace. Launched in 2016, it offers immersive experiences with recognized speakers like Joe Bengfort, Enterprise CIO at UCSF; and Reema Batnagar, VP of People at Pixar. The event promotes purposeful work and innovative collaboration.

Why You Should Attend:
 Engage in unique formats like interactive workshops and unconference sessions, designed to foster new approaches to workplace culture. Connect with industry leaders and peers to share ideas on improving organizational behavior. The conference's immersive setting at the Oakland Museum of California enhances learning and networking opportunities.

17. 2025 Ohio HR Conference - Sandusky, OH (September 24-26, 2025)

2025 Ohio HR Conference
2025 Ohio HR Conference (Source)

Overview:
The HR Conference 2025 is a key event for HR professionals in Ohio, providing a platform for learning and networking. It's designed to address current HR challenges and trends. The conference features a range of speakers, including industry experts and thought leaders.

Why You Should Attend:
Participate in comprehensive sessions covering the latest HR trends and best practices. Network with fellow HR professionals and gain insights from industry experts. The conference offers a unique opportunity to enhance your skills and knowledge in a collaborative environment.

18. HR Healthcare 2025 - Boston, MA (October 6-7, 2025)

HR Healthcare 2025 conference landing page
HR Healthcare 2025 (Source)

Overview:
HR Healthcare is specifically designed for HR professionals at the nation's health systems and hospitals. Here, you'll discover the tools, insights, innovations, and cutting-edge solutions needed to evolve your hiring strategies, enhance employee well-being, and leverage people analytics in an ever-changing healthcare industry.

Why You Should Attend:
Explore strategies specific to healthcare HR, such as managing talent shortages and improving workforce engagement. Participate in interactive sessions that provide actionable insights and solutions tailored to the healthcare sector. Network with peers and industry leaders to exchange ideas and best practices. 

19. Excel HR Conference - Nanaimo, BC (October 7-10, 2025)

Excel HR Conference (Source)

Overview:
The Western Cities HR Conference: Elevate HR is designed for public sector HR professionals, providing an opportunity to network and learn from industry leaders. The event began over six decades ago as a meeting for Compensation and Labour Relations professionals and has grown into a comprehensive conference.

Why You Should Attend:
Join fellow HR professionals for 2.5 days of networking, expert-led breakout sessions, and inspiring keynote panels. The conference offers insights into the latest HR trends, strategies, well-being, and total rewards. With after-hours events and on-site activities, attendees can connect and expand their professional network.

20. Gartner HR Symposium/Xpo™ - Orlando, FL (October 27-29, 2025)

Gartner HR Symposium/Xpo™ conference
Gartner HR Symposium/Xpo™ (Source)

Overview:
Gartner HR Symposium/Xpo™ is designed for CHROs and HR leaders to explore strategic insights and trends. It started as a key event for HR professionals worldwide. Past speakers include leading HR and business thinkers.

Why you should attend:
Immerse yourself in sessions focusing on strategic HR issues and network with top industry leaders. Discover solutions tailored to your organizational challenges and gain actionable insights. It's an ideal platform for enhancing your leadership skills and staying ahead in the HR field.

Have Fun Learning And Connecting

Conferences are a great way to connect with like-minded professionals and expand your knowledge.

You might also want to consider delving into these HR books, HR podcasts, or taking an HR certifications.

What's Next?

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Finn Bartram
By Finn Bartram

Finn is an editor at People Managing People. He's passionate about growing organizations where people are empowered to continuously improve and genuinely enjoy coming to work. If not at his desk, you can find him playing sports or enjoying the great outdoors.

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