Learning from the Best in People Analytics and Assessment

SIOP recently concluded the 2026 Leading Edge Consortium (LEC) events in Baltimore, offering two distinct programs with deep dives into the latest developments in people analytics and assessment. In addition to workshops, keynote addresses, and breakout sessions on a wide variety of topics, this year’s LECs included poster sessions that provided additional learning opportunities highlighting the latest research.

Shaping the Future of People Analytics was held Sept. 30-Oct. 1 at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, with sessions organized under the topics of Impact, Influence, Integrity, and Innovation. Attendees enjoyed interactive sessions as well as presentations from experts in scientific research, advanced private-sector people analytics functions, and higher education. SIOP extends heartfelt thanks to Tunji Oki and Alexandra Dmytriw for their service as co-chairs.

“‘Shaping the Future of People Analytics’ was more than a conference tagline, it was our call to action,” Oki said. “Chairing and attending the LEC showed me that our true strength lies in connection: bridging senior leaders and rising stars, academic theory, and real-world practice. When we share one stage and commit to engaging, listening, and discussing one conversation, we don’t just discuss the future, but we forge it together.”

The event offered three post-consortium workshops for further exploration on the topics of Vibe Analytics, Influencing with Data, and Embedding AI into People Analytics.

Assessment in a New Era was held Oct. 1-2, also at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, offering convenience for speakers and attendees who participated in both LEC programs. SIOP extends heartfelt thanks to Emily Solberg and Tony Boyce for their service as co-chairs.

Sessions explored topics related to the Future of Assessments, Assessment Delivery and Reporting Innovations, Legislation, Ethics, and Fairness, Assessment in Government, Broader Use of Assessments, Scoring and Validation Innovations, and Assessment Design Innovations. Three preconsortium workshops showcased legal insights, practical applications, and the value of assessment data.

Attendees also enjoyed “The Great I-O Debate-alogue: The Good, the Bad, and the Complicated,” featuring SIOP President Richard Landers and speakers Elizabeth Kolmstetter and Doug Reynolds. On our post-consortium survey, the debate was noted as the most memorable and positive event of the program.

“​​It was exciting and inspiring to see so many assessment professionals come together at such a pivotal moment for our field,” Solberg said. “The consortium created space to learn from one another, explore the changing assessment landscape, and think together about how we shape the future of assessment in ways that are scientific, fair, legally compliant, and responsive to the changing world of work.”

Plans are under way for the 2027 SIOP Leading Edge Consortium, and details will be shared soon.