National Comp 2025 Heads to Nashville with Purple Heart Veteran Noah Galloway as Keynote Speaker  

Annual workers' compensation conference brings mission-driven programming to Music City for the first time 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The nation's largest workers' compensation conference is setting up shop in Music City for the first time, bringing together industry leaders for two days of education, networking, and innovation at the Music City Center on November 11-12, 2025. 

The National Workers' Compensation and Disability Conference (National Comp) has announced U.S. Army veteran and Purple Heart recipient Noah Galloway as its keynote speaker for the 2025 event. Galloway, a double amputee who gained national recognition as a finalist on "Dancing with the Stars" and author of the bestselling memoir "Living with No Excuses," will deliver his keynote address on Veterans Day. 

"Noah's message aligns with the heart of what workers' comp is all about: recovery, adaptation, and support," said Michelle Kerr, Conference Chair for National Comp. "We're thrilled to bring this event to Nashville for the first time and excited to welcome attendees to experience everything Music City has to offer while engaging with the most pressing issues facing our industry." 

More Than Just Another Conference 

What sets National Comp apart from other industry gatherings is its nonprofit foundation as a brand of The Institutes. Unlike commercial trade shows, every dollar generated supports educational and professional development efforts that benefit the broader insurance community. 

"When you exhibit, sponsor, or attend National Comp, you're not funding a for-profit venture—you're investing in a nonprofit mission to elevate the workers' compensation and risk management industries," Kerr explained. "Your participation helps drive collective progress and serves as a launchpad for critical conversations, research dissemination, and standards-shaping ideas." 

The conference serves as a hub for more than 250 industry leaders, including CEOs of global insurers, startup founders, and professionals from major companies like BJ's Wholesale Club, Continental Tire, Delta Airlines, Starbucks, and Travelers. Attendees typically hold director-level positions or above, with the majority being decision makers and influencers in their organizations. 

Nashville Experience with Industry Focus 

For its Nashville debut, National Comp is incorporating unique Music City experiences into the conference format. The event will feature several themed lounges, including the Nashville Custom GooGoo Cluster Lounge where attendees can participate in hands-on chocolate-making activities, a professional headshot lounge, and a pet therapy lounge.  

The conference will also include a Nashville-themed lounge, a custom t-shirt creation station, and a pet lounge area for attendees traveling with companions. The closing keynote will feature a singer-songwriter showcase, highlighting Nashville's rich musical heritage. 

The two-day agenda kicks off Tuesday, November 11 with the opening keynote and 2025 Theo Awards, followed by concurrent educational sessions and networking opportunities. The expo hall will be open both days, featuring an Industry Theater for focused presentations. Tuesday concludes with a happy hour for attendees to connect in a relaxed setting. 

Addressing Industry Challenges 

National Comp 2025 promises to tackle the evolving challenges facing workers' compensation professionals through cutting-edge technology integration, upgraded layouts, and revamped sessions. The conference will feature interactive expo lounges, and a low-key happy hour designed to foster connections among industry professionals. 

The event attracts a diverse audience including workers' compensation directors and managers, claims specialists, disability professionals, insurance professionals, attorneys, consultants, HR managers, safety specialists, managed care providers, and medical professionals including nurses and occupational health specialists. 

Purpose-Driven Programming 

The conference's mission-driven approach means programming isn't just curated for buzz—it's built for outcomes. As a nonprofit platform, National Comp enables meaningful, credible, and independent content that addresses real industry needs. 

"Your support enables us to continue offering substantial programming that makes a real impact," Kerr noted. "Attendees walk away with new connections and knowledge while helping sustain a nonprofit engine that fuels the industry." 

Registration for National Comp 2025 is now open. The event continues its tradition as the longest running annual conference focused on workers' compensation and disability management, serving professionals who work in claims management, worker safety, coordinated care, and return-to-work programs. 

For more information about National Comp 2025 and to register, visit wcconference.com. 

National Comp is produced by Risk & Insurance and affiliated with The Institutes, a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating, elevating, and connecting people in risk management and insurance. 

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