When opportunity knocks, Secretary Jeff Noel is making sure Kentucky is ready to answer.
As Secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, Noel has spent the past three years driving strategies that bring new jobs, attract investment, and grow industries across the Commonwealth, including right here in Eastern Kentucky. He’ll bring that vision to the 2025 SOAR Summit, presented by Appalachian Wireless and the Appalachian Regional Commission, on Thursday, August 28, at the Corbin Arena.
Before taking on this role, Noel served as Whirlpool’s Corporate Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs and led the Whirlpool Foundation. There, he guided global partnerships like the company’s 20-year collaboration with Habitat for Humanity, which helped more than 200,000 families find a place to call home. That same passion for service and growth drives his work today as he helps shape Kentucky’s economic future.
At the Summit, Noel will share an inside look at Kentucky’s economic momentum, from the industries taking root in the region to the opportunities ahead for communities ready to build, innovate, and lead.
About the SOAR Summit
The 2025 SOAR Summit will be held August 26–29 at the Corbin Arena in Corbin, Kentucky. It is Appalachia’s premier event, drawing more than 1,200 attendees from across sectors, including economic development, entrepreneurship, workforce, education, health, and policy.
This year’s Summit isn’t just a conference. It’s a gathering of people who boldly believe in this region and are building what comes next.
What to Expect
- The EKY Experience presented by Appalachian Regional Healthcare, a fully immersive and interactive Expo Hall
- SOAR Inspires Awards, presented by KCTCS
- Taste of Corbin, presented by Whitaker Bank, with a Toast to Corbin sponsored by Corbin Tourism and powered by Ale-8-One
- Multiple Plenary Sessions featuring nationally recognized speakers
- Dozens of breakout sessions, interactive exhibits, and meaningful networking opportunities
Ticket Options
We know time, cost, and commitments can be barriers, so we’re doing things differently this year. With multiple ticket options and free community experiences, it’s never been easier to make the Summit your own.
All-Access Pass – $300
Includes full programming, all Plenary Sessions, Taste of Corbin (Presented by Whitaker Bank), SOAR Inspires Awards (Presented by KCTCS), breakfast (August 28-29), and Lunch (August 28).
2-Day Programming Pass (Aug. 26–27) – $150
Includes breakout sessions, EKY Experience, presented by Appalachian Regional Healthcare, and the SOAR Inspires Awards (Presented by KCTCS).
2-Day Plenary Pass (August 28–29) — $200
Includes Plenary Sessions, the Taste of Corbin reception (Presented by Whitaker Bank), breakfast (August 28-29), and lunch (August 28).
Register now at www.soar-ky.org/summit
Don’t Miss This Moment
Eastern Kentucky is on the rise, and Jeff Noel’s message will highlight what’s possible when preparation meets opportunity.
Join us in Corbin this August. Come have a seat at the table, stay for inspiration. Leave ready to help write the next chapter of our region’s growth.
Purpose. Prosperity. Potential. It starts here.
Register now at www.soar-ky.org/summit