The administrative profession is evolving faster than ever before—and ASAP is leading the way. Recently, ASAP’S very own Senior Content Manager, Leah Warwick, joined host Jeremy Burrows on The Leader Assistant Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about where the profession is headed. Also joining the episode was Maggie Olson, ASAP training partner and Founder of NOVA Chief of Staff. Together, the discussion highlighted the research, skills, and training opportunities shaping the future of work for assistants.
Setting Benchmarks for the Profession
When Jeremy asked about trends Leah is seeing across the field, she turned to ASAP’s research. “One of the biggest takeaways from the 2025 State of the Profession Report is that there’s still a real disconnect between titles and responsibilities,” Leah explained. “Assistants are taking on strategic-level work, but their titles don’t always reflect that shift.”
The report also revealed that professionals who pursue external training are more likely to advance and earn higher compensation. Leah noted this finding is at the core of ASAP’s mission: “Training is how you move forward. It’s how you gain the skills that make you indispensable to your executive and your organization.”
The Future of Skills: From AI to Strategic Partnership
Technology, of course, was also on the table. Jeremy asked about the rise of AI, and Leah emphasized how important it is for administrative professionals to embrace new tools rather than shy away from them. “AI isn’t replacing assistants—it’s changing the kind of work assistants can do,” she said. “That shift opens the door for more strategic partnership with executives.”
Maggie Olson agreed, adding her perspective from training Chiefs of Staff: “The professionals who thrive in the future will be the ones who lean into critical thinking, communication, and influence—skills that go far beyond the tactical.”
Connecting the Dots: Research, Training, and Community
Throughout the episode, Leah connected ASAP’s research directly to its new training ecosystem, including the Career Stages Framework and the professional development opportunities offered both digitally and in-person at APC and EA Ignite. The Career Stages Framework helps administrative professionals identify where they are in their career journey—from assisting to supporting, partnering, and leading—and shows the skills and experiences needed to advance to the next stage.*
She also highlighted ASAP’s partnership with NOVA, which brings Chief of Staff training tracks to both events. Together, these resources give administrative professionals a clear path for growth, backed by data and informed by top voices in the field.
*view the 2025 State of the Profession Report for more
Listen to the Full Conversation
ASAP’s role in shaping the profession is clearer than ever: providing the research, training, and community that drive real career growth.
Want to hear the full conversation? Listen to the episode of The Leader Assistant Podcast featuring Leah Warwick and Maggie Olson here.
And if you’re ready to dive deeper:
Become an ASAP Member
Explore APC and EA Ignite for tailored training opportunities
