APWA North American Snow Conference 2024 logo

Keynote

Monday, April 29
9:00–10:00 a.m.

a photo of Jay Gubrud, keynote speaker at the 2024 APWA Snow ConferenceJay Gubrud

Jay Gubrud is a catalyst for performance improvement. He is a dynamic professional speaker who has been presenting across industries and audiences for more than 20 years. His programs challenge participants to eliminate the everyday roadblocks to their success. Jay has an innate ability to relate the trials of life and business in a way that everyone can relate to … cars and driving!

  • He has been riding motorcycles since he was 7 years old.
  • He made an appearance on the Oprah Winfrey show.
  • He has had the pleasure of riding in a rare Ferrari F40 worth over $2,000,000.
  • He has never missed a speaking engagement in 20+ years.
  • He does not currently like mushrooms but keeps trying them.

Keynote

Tuesday, April 30
4:00–5:00 p.m.

a photo of Wesley Hamilton, keynote speaker at the 2024 APWA Snow Conference

Wesley Hamilton

From a challenging beginning in Kansas City, Missouri, Wesley Hamilton has created an extraordinary life story of resilience and transformation. Following a traumatic incident at 24 that resulted in him being paralyzed below the waist, Wes channeled his adversity into a personal revolution, focusing on fitness and nutrition, and astonishingly losing 100 pounds despite his physical limitations.

This journey of transformation inspired him to establish Disabled But Not Really (DBNR), a non-profit organization that empowers individuals with disabilities to claim their independence through different wellness models. An expert motivational speaker, Wes explores themes of adversity, disruption, inclusivity, and intersectionality, helping institutions forward their dialogue around DEI.

Beyond his recognition in the CrossFit community and feature on Netflix's Queer Eye, Wes's outstanding contributions were acknowledged on a global stage when he was named a 2021 CNN Hero. The same year, he was recognized as a 2021 Craig H. Neilson Foundation Visionary, an accolade that came with a $1 million award. Firmly believing in the power of inspiration, Wes sees his purpose as inspiring others, demonstrating that limitations can become opportunities for resilience and growth.