Business : Kirkwood to Host 2026 Safety Conference March 26

The conference will explore four core principles that drive safer outcomes: care for individual well-being, collaboration through teamwork and shared responsibility, accountability to high standards and the courage to make the right choices. Throughout the day, attendees can participate in multiple breakout sessions, hear keynote presentations, engage with exhibitors and network with peers.

This year’s conference will highlight two keynote speakers focused on strengthening workplace safety culture. First, David J. Sarkus will talk about “Leading from Your Heart!”, emphasizing leadership-driven safety and long-term commitment beyond compliance. Then, Celina Peerman will present “What We Miss: The Psychology of Seeing, Speaking Up, and Staying Safe,” examining how human behavior, hidden assumptions and psychological safety impact hazard awareness and employees’ willingness to speak up.

Additional sessions will cover topics such as innovative safety technologies, risk prevention strategies, mental health support in the workplace and practical guidance from industry experts, among others. A vendor showcase and meal are included with registration.

The Safety Conference also provides valuable continuing education opportunities for attendees looking to strengthen their professional credentials and stay current with evolving workplace regulations and best practices. Participants will gain practical strategies they can immediately implement within their organizations to enhance compliance, reduce risk and promote a culture of safety. The event fosters collaboration across industries, creating space for meaningful dialogue and shared learning among safety leaders throughout the region.

“Our goal with the Safety Conference is to bring people together to share actionable safety practices that make measurable differences in workplaces of all kinds,” said Kirkwood Fire & Safety Programmer David Hughes. “Attendees will walk away with fresh perspectives, real tools for improving safety outcomes and connections with professionals who face similar challenges every day.”

For more information, or to register, visit www.kirkwood.edu/safetyconference.

What: 2026 Kirkwood Safety Conference

Where: The Hotel at Kirkwood Center, 7725 Kirkwood Blvd SW in Cedar Rapids

When: Thursday, March 26

Time: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (check-in begins at 7:30 a.m.)

Cost: $199