The fitness industry is facing its biggest challenge yet: Talent. As gyms expand, digital platforms evolve, and member expectations rise, the next frontier of growth will be defined not by technology or equipment, but by people. Discover how to future-proof your talent pipeline, reduce turnover, and align trainer development with real business outcomes.
Kurt Mangum II
Kurt Mangum II is a global fitness industry executive with 15+ years of experience advancing strategic partnerships, leadership development, and workforce innovation. As Vice President of Partnerships at ISSA, he leads initiatives that connect certification to careers, building scalable, revenue-driven partnerships across gyms, brands, and international markets.
With a foundation in fitness, wellness, and education, Kurt holds a Master’s degree in Education with an emphasis in Sports Sciences from the University of Akron. A former collegiate linebacker, he brings performance discipline and people-first leadership into every collaboration. He is known for translating vision into execution and creating bridges between education and real-world opportunity in the rapidly evolving global fitness economy.
Kurt is a two-time Phoenix Top 100 Titan of Industry, recognized for leadership, innovation, and industry impact. He frequently speaks on the future of fitness careers, gym workforce development, and partnership strategy at scale.
Kurt Mangum II is a global fitness industry executive with 15+ years of experience advancing strategic partnerships, leadership development, and workforce innovation. As Vice President of Partnerships at ISSA, he leads initiatives that connect certification to careers, building scalable, revenue-driven partnerships across gyms, brands, and international markets.
With a foundation in fitness, wellness, and education, Kurt holds a Master’s degree in Education with an emphasis in Sports Sciences from the University of Akron. A former collegiate linebacker, he brings performance discipline and people-first leadership into every collaboration. He is known for translating vision into execution and creating bridges between education and real-world opportunity in the rapidly evolving global fitness economy.
Kurt is a two-time Phoenix Top 100 Titan of Industry, recognized for leadership, innovation, and industry impact. He frequently speaks on the future of fitness careers, gym workforce development, and partnership strategy at scale.
Justin Shinn
Mohammed Iqbal
Mohammed Iqbal strives to enhance the lives of those around him. He believes that by empowering others with knowledge it ultimately leads to healthier life choices. He founded SweatWorks to create elegant and functional technologies that would engage, motivate and inspire people to lead better lives. As the Founder and CEO of SweatWorks, Mohammed drives strategy, vision, and innovation, as well as embodies the core values of the agency: staying healthy and active.
