Aspiring to Lead: Building Career-Ready Skills at the University of Kentucky

To fulfill the University of Kentucky’s vital role in the Commonwealth, we must grow leaders who are adaptable, collaborative and equipped to solve real-world challenges. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) 2025 survey, the most in-demand skills include problem-solving, teamwork, communication and initiative. This session will explore how aspiring leaders at UK can intentionally develop these competencies through university resources, professional development programs and training opportunities. Participants will leave with a clear understanding of the top career-ready skills, why they matter, and a roadmap for leveraging UK’s services to build a strong foundation for leadership and career success.

Led by Rebecca Dyer

Rebecca Dyer is a Senior Career Consultant in Training and Development at the University of Kentucky, where she supports the career advancement of UK Staff through one-on-one coaching, presentations and strategic programming. With more than 15 years of experience spanning higher education, nonprofit leadership and global operations, she brings a deep understanding of career development, organizational strategy and employee engagement. She holds certifications as a Global Career Development Facilitator, Certified Career Services Provider and Strong Interest Inventory practitioner. Rebecca earned her M.A. in Diplomacy and International Relations and her B.A. in History from the University of Kentucky. She is committed to helping individuals grow into confident, capable leaders through intentional development and lifelong learning. She is an avid gardener and a Girl Scout Leader, and she enjoys traveling with her husband Brad (Wildcat) and three kids, Nate, Alice and Clara (future Wildcats).