Keynote Voices at AIHA Connect 2025 Champion Communication and Inclusion
AIHA Connect 2025 features keynotes from David Finch on neurodiversity and Evy Poumpouras on human connection—powerfully framing a people-centered conference.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- May 19, 2025
The opening and closing keynotes at AIHA Connect 2025 are delivering powerful bookends to the annual conference, unified by a shared theme: people are at the heart of occupational and environmental health and safety (OEHS).
David Finch, autism advocate and New York Times bestselling author, opens the conference with a message on the importance of embracing neurodiversity in the workplace. Finch, who is autistic, urges OEHS professionals to shift their thinking about what inclusion means—not just hiring neurodivergent workers, but creating conditions where they can thrive.
“Neurodiversity is already part of your workforce,” Finch tells attendees. “The question is whether your systems and culture are designed to support it.”
Finch’s talk highlights how diverse cognitive styles enhance problem-solving, innovation, and team dynamics—key drivers of success in high-risk work environments.
Closing the conference on May 21 is Evy Poumpouras, former U.S. Secret Service agent, author, and communication expert. Drawing on her experience in law enforcement and media, Poumpouras focuses on the power of human connection and soft skills in the OEHS profession.
“You’re in the business of people. Period,” she says. “If you can master that, you can master anything.”
Poumpouras emphasizes that effective communication—rooted in active listening, empathy, and presence—can influence safety outcomes just as much as technical procedures. From body language awareness to word choice and confidence, her keynote offers practical insights for improving leadership and engagement.
Together, Finch and Poumpouras are redefining what it means to lead in occupational health. Their messages challenge attendees to look beyond compliance and credentials, and instead build workplaces where diverse voices are heard, understood, and empowered.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco is the Content Editor for OH&S.