The Kirkpatrick Summit 2025
September 9th - 11th

Trailblazing Together:
Turning Training Into Measurable Results—In Just 3 Days

Walk away with the tools, plans, and strategies to prove and improve performance.

In the Kirkpatrick Community, We Know—No One Walks the Kirkpatrick Trail Alone.

The 2025 Kirkpatrick Summit begins in...

Are you a learning professional ready to blaze new trails?

Are you seeking a community event where pioneering ideas in how to make evaluation intertwined within the fabric of your organization are not just discussed, but brought to life?

Highlights from 2024!

The 2024 Kirkpatrick Summit in June 2024 celebrated 70 years of the Kirkpatrick Model, where connections were made, insights were gained, and real-world applications were explored. Attendees participated in interactive sessions, shared case studies, and connected with industry leaders to elevate their evaluation practices and drive lasting impact.
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Introducing the Impact Incubator

The Kirkpatrick Summit™ is a hands-on, high-impact experience designed for leaders ready to move beyond theory and build a true Culture of Evaluation™. You’ll tackle real organizational challenges, develop solutions you can put to work immediately, and learn the art of storytelling for buy-in, so your ideas not only get noticed, but funded.

Discover how to find your early adopters, champion change, and decide what’s really driving results in your programs and initiatives. Get ready to roll up your sleeves, collaborate with experts and peers, and return with a blueprint for lasting transformation.

At the Summit, you won't be spending all your time listening with no application.

You will spend your time actively:
  • Mapping your organization’s evaluation culture and spot champions 
  • Shifting mindsets and build partnerships to move beyond “checking the box”  
  • Prototyping feedback systems and dashboards that drive business value 
  • Developing practical strategies to overcome barriers and future-proof your evaluation efforts 
  • Mastering storytelling with evidence to secure buy-in and funding 
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What You'll Leave Gain:

Pioneering Change: Case Studies and Discoveries

Explore groundbreaking case studies showcasing successful strategies and lessons learned in learning and performance evaluation.

Trailblazing Innovation: Technology and Unique Solutions

Discover how innovative technologies and creative solutions are transforming the landscape of learning and performance.

Reaching New Heights: Kirkpatrick Levels 3 & 4

Learn practical approaches to achieving and assessing behavior change and organizational results using Kirkpatrick Levels 3 and 4.

Mapping Your Evaluation Strategy 

Gain insights into crafting a comprehensive evaluation strategy that aligns with your organizational goals and ensures long-term success.

Leading the Expedition: Leadership in Learning and Performance

Uncover leadership strategies that drive performance, inspire teams, and foster a culture of continuous improvement in learning and performance.

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In-Person Pre-Conference Certification Opportunities!

September 8, 2025 & September 9, 2025

Looking for a chance to become a Kirkpatrick certified professional? On Monday, September 8th, a day before the main event kicks off, we begin our in-person certification programs for both our Bronze and Silver certification programs.

Become Bronze or Silver Certified Early

These programs are designed to enhance training evaluation skills, benefiting professionals across all sectors, including government and military. By joining us for our in-person Bronze or Silver certification programs, you'll gain valuable insights and tools that you can begin immediately applying inside your organization, where precise training and measurable outcomes are crucial.

Announcing: Transfer Designer Certification

In partnership, with the Institute for Transfer Effectiveness, we are pleased to be the site of the first ever in person Transfer Designer certification in the US. The Transfer Designer Certification, equips you to design training that sticks, driving behavior change and real-world application long after the classroom or LMS session ends.
In this interactive pre-Summit workshop, you’ll learn proven strategies to overcome the most common barriers to transfer, apply evidence-based design principles, and create an actionable plan to ensure your learning initiatives deliver measurable results where it matters most: on the job.

Agenda Overview

September 8-9
September 9
September 10
September 11

September 8-9

September 9

  • Registration opens at 10:30am EST 
  • 11:30am ET Lunch Meet and Greet
  • 1pm ET Opening
  • 2-5pm ET Ted-Style Talks and Panels
  • Networking Event

September 10

  • Building a Culture of Evaluation Hack-a-thon - work on solving your biggest evaluation challenges yet!

September 11

  • Building a Culture of Evaluation Hack-a-thon - work on solving your biggest evaluation challenges yet!

Secure Your Spot At the Summit

This event is not your average learning and development conference. It's an immersive learning and performance experience, meticulously designed for professionals like you who are passionate about driving effective and innovative learning strategies. 

Mark your calendars for September 9-11, 2025, and join us at The Executive Training and Conference Center in Dulles, VA for an unparalleled experience.

The 2025 Kirkpatrick Summit begins in...

Frequently asked questions

What’s included in the Summit ticket?
A Summit ticket grants you access to all three days of Summit activities including all sessions, panels, and on-demand virtual sessions. Coffee and refreshments will be readily available throughout the event. 
Do you offer group rate pricing?
Yes! You can find group rates on our registration page. Group rates apply to groups of 3-8 attendees and offer a discount of 20% per ticket. If you have any issues or have further questions, please email us at events@kirkpatrickpartners.com.
I’m traveling from out of town, what are some places to stay that are close by?
There is a room block available for Summit attendees at the Hampton Suites in Dulles Virginia. Simply call the hotel at 703-537-7800 and mention the “Kirkpatrick Rm Block 2025.” Additionally, click here for a list of the ECTC’s recommended places to stay. 

For those traveling via plane, there is now a DC Metro system that runs directly from the airport to the ECTC! 
Can Kirkpatrick Partners provide their financial details for government approval?
We sure can! Click here to download our financial details. If there is something else you need that is not on this list, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at events@kirkpatrickpartners.com.
What am I going to experience while I’m on site?
Expect a high-energy, hands-on experience where collaboration is at the center. You’ll join peers and industry leaders to co-create real solutions through our Impact Incubator, get hands-on with new Kirkpatrick tools, and hear inspiring stories of culture change. There will be plenty of networking, practical workshops, and the chance to earn your Bronze or Silver Certification in person. You’ll leave with new connections, fresh strategies, and actionable tools to drive impact in your organization.


How can I reach out to the Kirkpatrick Partners team?
Absolutely! We are always happy to help. Please reach out to us at events@kirkpatrickpartners.com.
I’m really interested in attending the Summit but I need to be able to show the value to my higher ups. Do you have any materials I can share with them?
Absolutely! Click here to download our “Convince Your Boss” document. 

Apply for a Kirkpatrick Award

Celebrate the work you are doing and receive recognition from the global standard in evaluation.
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The 2025 Kirkpatrick Awards

Applications due: August 22, 2025
Awards Presented at the Kirkpatrick Summit - you do not need to be present to win.

Kirkpatrick Brightlight

Description:
Kirkpatrick BrightLight® Professionals have improved organizational performance and results through implementation of the Kirkpatrick Model, and inspired others in the process. They have directly or indirectly assisted others to improve their own performance and business or mission outcomes.

Criteria:
  • Exemplary Application of Kirkpatrick Model: Demonstrated proficiency in implementing the Kirkpatrick Model to evaluate and improve training effectiveness.
  • Innovative Practices: Implementation of creative and forward-thinking approaches to learning and development, showcasing a commitment to continuous improvement.
  • Measurable Impact: Evidence of tangible and positive outcomes resulting from the application of Kirkpatrick principles, such as improved performance metrics, enhanced employee engagement, or increased organizational effectiveness.
  • Collaboration and Leadership: Ability to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and lead initiatives that contribute to a culture of learning and development within the organization.

Kirkpatrick Blended Evaluation Plan of Excellence

Award Areas:
  • Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Belonging Initiative
  • Soft Skills Program
  • Leadership Development Program
  • Onboarding Program
  • Software Training Program
  • Organizational Process or Policy
  • Employee Experience and Culture

Description:
The Kirkpatrick Blended Evaluation Excellence Award celebrates outstanding achievements in the application of blended evaluation methods to enhance learning and development across various categories. This prestigious accolade recognizes organizations and practitioners who have demonstrated excellence in evaluating training programs through a thoughtful blend of assessment techniques. By acknowledging innovation, impact, and adaptability, this award aims to inspire best practices in the realm of learning and development.

Criteria:
  • Demonstrated Blended Evaluation Expertise: Clear evidence of expertise in implementing a comprehensive blended evaluation approach that combines various levels of the Kirkpatrick Model.
  • Measurable Impact: Documentation of tangible and measurable outcomes resulting from the blended evaluation process, such as improved performance metrics, increased learner satisfaction, and enhanced organizational effectiveness.
  • Innovation and Adaptability: Evidence of innovative thinking and adaptability in the face of evolving learning environments, showcasing a commitment to staying at the forefront of evaluation practices.
  • Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement: Successful collaboration with stakeholders, including learners, trainers, and organizational leaders, to ensure a holistic and inclusive evaluation process.

Excellence in Research

Description:
The Excellence in Research Award recognizes individuals or teams that have made exemplary contributions to the field of learning and performance through research that incorporates the principles of the Kirkpatrick Model. This prestigious award celebrates innovative and impactful research that enhances our understanding of training effectiveness and contributes to the advancement of best practices in the industry.
Criteria:
  • Integration of Kirkpatrick Model as updated in 2016: Clear demonstration of how the research design and methodology incorporate the principles of the Kirkpatrick Model, emphasizing the four levels of reaction, learning, behavior, and results.
  • Relevance and Applicability: The research should address pertinent issues in the field of learning and development, with a focus on practical applicability and relevance to real-world organizational challenges.
  • Methodological Rigor: Rigorous and sound research methods, including appropriate sampling, data collection, and analysis techniques, ensuring the validity and reliability of the study's findings.
  • Innovation and Contribution: Originality and innovation in research design or conceptual frameworks, showcasing a significant contribution to the existing body of knowledge in the field.
  • Practical Implications: A clear articulation of how the research findings can be practically applied to inform training and development strategies, enhance learning outcomes, and improve organizational performance.
  • Measurable Impact: Evidence of the research's impact on organizational practices, policies, or the broader learning and development community, as well as any measurable improvements in training effectiveness.
  • Dissemination of Knowledge: Active efforts to disseminate research findings through publications, presentations, or other channels, contributing to the broader professional and academic community.

Innovation in Technology Utilization

Description:
The Excellence in Research Award recognizes individuals or teams that have made exemplary contributions to the field of learning and performance through research that incorporates the principles of the Kirkpatrick Model. This prestigious award celebrates innovative and impactful research that enhances our understanding of training effectiveness and contributes to the advancement of best practices in the industry.

Criteria:
  • Integration of Kirkpatrick Model as updated in 2016: Clear demonstration of how the research design and methodology incorporate the principles of the Kirkpatrick Model, emphasizing the four levels of reaction, learning, behavior, and results.
  • Relevance and Applicability: The research should address pertinent issues in the field of learning and development, with a focus on practical applicability and relevance to real-world organizational challenges.
  • Methodological Rigor: Rigorous and sound research methods, including appropriate sampling, data collection, and analysis techniques, ensuring the validity and reliability of the study's findings.
  • Innovation and Contribution: Originality and innovation in research design or conceptual frameworks, showcasing a significant contribution to the existing body of knowledge in the field.
  • Practical Implications: A clear articulation of how the research findings can be practically applied to inform training and development strategies, enhance learning outcomes, and improve organizational performance.
  • Measurable Impact: Evidence of the research's impact on organizational practices, policies, or the broader learning and development community, as well as any measurable improvements in training effectiveness.
  • Dissemination of Knowledge: Active efforts to disseminate research findings through publications, presentations, or other channels, contributing to the broader professional and academic community.

Kirkpatrick Content Excellence Award

Description:
The Kirkpatrick Content Excellence Award celebrates and honors the best content that showcases how authors and organizations are effectively applying the Kirkpatrick Model in their work, volunteer efforts, or community initiatives. This award recognizes outstanding contributions across various mediums, including video, published articles, case studies, and blogs. Winners will be acknowledged for their ability to articulate and demonstrate the impact of the Kirkpatrick Model in enhancing learning and performance within their respective domains. This award is NOT for those that are teaching the model in their content.

Criteria:
Alignment with Kirkpatrick Model: 
  • Clear Application: The content should effectively illustrate how the Kirkpatrick Model is applied in the specific context, demonstrating a deep understanding of the model's principles.
  • Integration of Levels: Entries should showcase the incorporation of multiple levels of the Kirkpatrick Model, addressing Reaction, Learning, Behavior, and Results as relevant to the chosen medium

    Impactful Communication:
  • Clarity and Accessibility: The content should be clear, accessible, and engaging, ensuring that the audience can easily comprehend the utilization of the Kirkpatrick Model.
  • Audience Engagement: Successful entries will be those that effectively engage the audience, fostering a connection between the content and its impact on learning and performance.

    Medium-specific Excellence:
  • Best Video: Judged based on visual storytelling, creativity, and the ability to convey the application of the Kirkpatrick Model through video format.
  • Best Published Article: Evaluated on the quality of written expression, depth of analysis, and the ability to communicate the application of the Kirkpatrick Model in a published article.
  • Best Case Study: Recognizes excellence in detailing real-world scenarios, showcasing the practical application of the Kirkpatrick Model and its impact.
  • Best Blog: Celebrates outstanding blogging that effectively communicates the author's or organization's use of the Kirkpatrick Model, offering insights and reflections

    Demonstrated Success and Innovation:
  • Measurable Impact: Submissions should provide evidence of the impact of the content on learning and performance, supported by measurable outcomes and results.
  • Innovative Approaches: Recognition will be given to entries that demonstrate innovative and creative methods in applying the Kirkpatrick Model within the chosen medium.

Relevance to Community or Organization:
  • Community/Workplace Impact: The content should highlight the relevance and impact of applying the Kirkpatrick Model in the community, workplace, or volunteer setting.
  • Alignment with Organizational Goals: Entries should articulate how the use of the Kirkpatrick Model contributes to achieving organizational goals and objectives.

The Dr. Donald Kirkpatrick Scholarship

Description:
The Donald Kirkpatrick Scholarship for Certification Programs is a prestigious award designed to recognize and support dedicated learning and performance practitioners committed to demonstrate exceptional commitment to advancing their skills through the Kirkpatrick Certification Programs. This scholarship provides a unique opportunity for 3 deserving individuals to enhance their expertise, contribute to the field, and carry forward the legacy of Dr. Donald Kirkpatrick's impact on training and evaluation.
Criteria:
Applicants for the Dr. Donald Kirkpatrick Scholarship will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
  • Professional Commitment: A demonstrated commitment to the field of learning and development, with a clear passion for enhancing training effectiveness and organizational performance.
  • Financial Need: An articulated need for financial assistance to attend the Kirkpatrick Certification Programs, along with a commitment to applying the knowledge gained to make a positive impact within their organization.
  • Innovation and Creativity: A history of incorporating innovative and creative approaches in the design and execution of training programs or evaluation strategies.
  • Leadership Potential: An indication of leadership potential within the learning and development field, with a vision for applying Kirkpatrick principles to drive positive change and improvements.
  • Professional Development Goals: A clear outline of the candidate's professional development goals and how completing both the Bronze and Silver levels of the Kirkpatrick Certification Programs will contribute to achieving these objectives.
  • Impact on Organizational Performance: Articulation of how the knowledge and skills gained from the certification programs will be applied to enhance organizational performance, training effectiveness, and overall employee development.
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