Jorge Lopez, J & M Events  

From Los Angeles radio personality to highly sought-after business mentor, Jorge Lopez has created a reputation as a leader in the event industry. Over the past three decades, Jorge has scaled a small entertainment business into a full-scale event production company.  Recently, Jorge has partnered with prestigious companies like Warner Bros, Google and Disney and has spoken at numerous high level conferences. 

His areas of expertise include:  Sales Success, Goal Setting and Motivation, Business Growth and Development, Company Culture 

Andrew Aston, Human Element

Andrew Aston is a recognized leader in technology recruiting and talent strategy, with over two decades of experience at the intersection of people, innovation, and workforce transformation. Since beginning his career in Los Angeles in 2002, he has built and led high-performing teams across the U.S., co-founded a national tech recruiting firm, and most recently, launched The Human Element Company, focused on staffing, HR and aligning human potential with emerging technologies.

Andrew speaks on topics such as: Responsible AI in Recruiting & Talent Strategy, Future-Proofing Your Workforce in the Age of Automation and Human-Centered Innovation: Keeping People at the Core of AI Adoption

Known for his candid insights, real-world experience, and forward-thinking vision, Andrew equips employees and employers with actionable strategies to thrive in a constantly evolving AI landscape. 

Nikki Buckstead, Child & Family Center

Nikki Buckstead is a visionary nonprofit leader with 30+ years of experience in social services, behavioral health, and systems change. She serves as President & CEO of the Child & Family Center, leading a 150+ person team and a $20 million annual budget across multiple facilities serving the Santa Clarita and Antelope Valleys. She leads with passion and purpose in support of the Center’s mission: Changing Lives, Healing Relationships, and Helping People Thrive.

She has completed extensive leadership training through the California Health Initiative Leadership Academy and the Community Foundation of Women’s Leadership Institute. She holds a master’s degree in psychology, is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with training through Cornell University, and holds certifications in Workplace Wellness and Mindfulness, including meditation and yoga instruction. 

Dr. Mark Crear, In the Zone CCC

Dr. Mark Crear is a two-time Olympic medalist, executive coach, and leadership consultant who has dedicated his life to helping people overcome obstacles and perform with purpose. Drawing from his experiences as an Olympian, counselor, and organizational leader, he inspires individuals and teams to align mindset, strategy, and culture, finding their rhythm both in life and in leadership.

His Olympic journey, earning a silver medal in the 1996 Atlanta Games with a broken arm and a bronze medal in the 2000 Sydney Olympics with a double hernia, became a symbol of courage under pressure. That same mindset now drives his mission: helping others overcome their own hurdles in business, in sports, and in life.