Dr. Katie Thomas: Lead Strategist & Millennial Leadership Advocate
Meet the Founder Who’s Changing Millennial Leadership
I’ve spent nearly 14 years researching the millennial generation, dedicating my career to understanding what truly drives this talented, purpose-driven workforce. In 2025, Millennials comprise 35% of the U.S. workforce—about 60 million people—yet many feel overlooked, unseen as future leaders.
Through my PhD research, I uncovered seven hidden blind spots that silently hold ambitious millennials back from reaching executive levels. These insights became the foundation for my work — helping purpose-driven professionals overcome barriers and accelerate their leadership journeys.
I founded Better Work Experience to bridge the gap between incredible millennial talent and the organizations striving to elevate them. My mission is clear: by 2035, I aim to prepare one million millennials—just one in 60—to rise into executive leadership, transforming the future of work.
Millennials aren’t just the future—they are the present of leadership, and organizations that understand how to engage, develop, and promote this generation will thrive in the coming decade.
My purpose is to guide emerging millennial executives toward strategic visibility, influence, and impact—so they can lead with authenticity and shape the workplaces of tomorrow.
The Receipts
Here’s proof that transformation is possible. These are real stories from real people who’ve taken bold steps to lead, transform their careers, and break through barriers — with guidance, strategies, and focus.
“Extremely fortunate to work alongside Katie during the creation of a Millennial strategy for Kaiser Permanente. Katie was instrumental and influential in working on such a highly visible initiative for the CEO. She was able to collaborate across executives, markets, departments, and people to ensure all voices were heard alongside a well executed strategy. Katie as a leader has earned my highest recommendation!” - Oscar Bolanos
“I’ve worked with Dr. Katie Thomas for ten years, first as a teacher and then as mentor and colleague. Above all else, she is a positive force in the world, with a natural optimism about everything she commits to. This is her ‘super-power. She has translated her research on what creates a healthy and fulfilling workplace experience into an exciting consulting firm; Better Work Experience Inc. Her skills and practical tools help anyone in the workplace – whether CEO or manager – identify what is missing from the 'balanced culture' which fosters collaboration, engagement, and employee well-being.” - Chris Dawson, MBA, PhD
“Creating a leadership presence with my team was always my weak point due to uncertainty and lack of confidence. Katie not only gave me the direction I needed to create a thriving, cohesive team, but I became more confident in my role than I have ever been. Her teaching methods were precise, easy to comprehend, and most importantly, effective. I wouldn’t have the career I have today if it wasn’t for her.” - Cameron Dreger
“Working with Katie has been so rewarding. She is a talented motivator. When I was hired to lead a team at one of the largest healthcare organizations in the country, Katie provided valuable coaching that helped me navigate the environment. Katie’s coaching helped me to identify and implement strategies that allowed me to take my team to the next level and become resilient. Her guidance and perspective are delivered with passion and a great sense of humor. I highly recommend Dr. Katie.” - Emily Nelson
“Katie was an incredible help in my career in preparation for a leadership role that involved a cross country move. Going in, I had vague ideas of where I wanted to take the company, and how I was going to get it there. With her Program, I was able to solidify my vision and gain the confidence I needed to lead my team to achieve a shared vision. I’m immensely grateful for Dr. Katie and her coaching!” - Hailey Scheffler
“I reached out to Katie in early 2017. She helped me accelerate my path as a leader by honing in on key attributes to creating a thriving and resilience corporate culture, getting a clear vision for the company and set the path for my team to follow. This ultimately led me to increasing corporations profits because we were working so seamlessly. I can confidently say her coaching has brought me to level where I am today. I am forever grateful for her! Thank you, Dr. Katie.” - Tina Harirchian
