
women leadership · conferences · Iowa
Women Lead Change
Women Lead Change (WLC) develops, advances, and promotes women leaders and their organizations—with measurable impact on workplaces and the future workforce. Formerly Iowa Women Lead Change, the organization rebranded in 2019 to expand beyond state borders while keeping Iowa as its operational heartland.
Coming up
Overview
Women Lead Change (WLC) develops, advances, and promotes women leaders and their organizations—with measurable impact on workplaces and the future workforce. Formerly Iowa Women Lead Change, the organization rebranded in 2019 to expand beyond state borders while keeping Iowa as its operational heartland.
What began in 2006 as a by-women, for-women conference idea has grown into multi-city leadership conferences, year-round cohorts, corporate challenges, and awards—serving thousands of attendees and 100+ corporate partners annually.
What they teach
WLC programming commonly emphasizes:
- Practical leadership skills via keynotes and tactical breakouts
- Mid-level development through Elevate and Ascent programs
- Corporate accountability via the EPIC Corporate Challenge
- Peer networking through Women Connect cohorts
Conferences and workshops blend nationally known speakers with local talent so emerging and established leaders leave with peers and playbooks—not just inspiration.
Who it's for
- Women leaders and male allies across career stages
- Corporate partners tracking women’s advancement metrics
- Students and emerging leaders via scholarship tracks
- Mid-level high-potentials seeking intensive development
How to engage
See mission, history, and upcoming conferences on wlcglobal.org. Register for a regional conference or explore Elevate/Ascent and EPIC partnership options.
Past highlights
The Leadership Conference: 2026 Des Moines
SOLD OUT (in-person): Women Lead Change's Leadership Conference in Des Moines brings nearly 1,000 attendees to the Iowa Events Center on Oct. 14, 2026 for keynote speakers and peer networking. In-person tickets are sold out; a virtual pass with the live keynote broadcast and on-demand replay is still offered on the official event page.
