Ryan Campbell to Deliver Resilience-Focused Keynote at VPPPA Safety+ Symposium

The record-setting aviator will share lessons on resilience, mental health and overcoming complacency during the opening keynote at VPPPA's annual safety conference.

• By Stasia DeMarco
• Jul 01, 2026

Ryan Campbell, a record-setting aviator whose journey has taken him from becoming the youngest pilot to fly solo around the world to recovering from a life-changing plane crash, will deliver the opening keynote at the 2026 VPPPA Safety+ Symposium in Nashville.

Campbell's keynote will kick off the conference on Aug. 31, where he is expected to share lessons on resilience, mental health and the importance of maintaining focus in high-risk environments. His presentation will draw on personal experiences that include completing a solo flight around the globe as a teenager, surviving a plane crash that left him paralyzed, and rebuilding his life through determination and a commitment to finding purpose after adversity.

Today, Campbell speaks to organizations worldwide about the power of resilience, the dangers of complacency and the role mindset plays in overcoming personal and professional challenges. His message encourages audiences to prioritize joy, embrace change and develop the mental strength needed to navigate uncertainty—qualities that resonate with safety professionals responsible for protecting workers in complex environments.

Campbell's keynote aligns with the broader mission of VPPPA's Safety+ Symposium, which focuses on helping organizations move beyond regulatory compliance by strengthening safety culture, leadership and continuous improvement. The annual event brings together frontline workers, safety professionals and executives to share best practices and explore emerging approaches to workplace safety and health.

The 2026 VPPPA Safety+ Symposium will be held Aug. 30 through Sept. 2 at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tenn. In addition to Campbell's keynote, the conference will feature educational workshops, an executive CEO panel, OSHA training, Innovation Stations, live demonstrations and networking opportunities designed to help organizations advance their safety and health programs.

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