Keynote Speaker

About the Keynote Speaker

Brad Waldrop is a devoted husband, father, son, uncle, and friend whose life reflects a deep commitment to family, community, and service. A 1998 graduate of Western Carolina University with a BSBA in Marketing, Brad has carried the values he learned at WCU into both his professional and civic life. He is co-owner of Ward Plumbing, Heating & Air, a company employing more than 65 area professionals and recognized throughout Western North Carolina for its people-first culture and customer service. Under his leadership, Ward has grown into a trusted name while providing stable, rewarding careers for dozens of families in the region.

In addition to his business leadership, Brad is an active public servant. He serves on the Sylva Town Board of Commissioners, the Jackson County Public Library Advisory Board, the Mountain Projects Board of Directors, and the Interplay Learning Executive Advisory Board. In these roles, he advocates for strong civic institutions, lifelong learning, and workforce development, reflecting his belief that healthy communities are built through education, service and opportunity.

Guided by the philosophy that service is the key to personal enrichment, Brad approaches every role—whether in business, public office, or family life—with humility and a commitment to others. His enduring connection to Western Carolina University underscores his belief in the power of education and community to shape lives, and he is honored to support initiatives like the CURE Conference that embody those values.