What does it really take to reinvent a business—from the inside out? In this compelling keynote, a 25-year Rocket Mortgage veteran and now small business super hero shares behind-the-scenes lessons from one of the most transformative journeys in modern business.

From paper files and fax machines to industry-defining digital experiences, he’s seen firsthand how culture, sales, hiring, marketing, and process must constantly evolve to meet the moment.

Whether you’re a founder, team leader, or executive, this session will challenge your assumptions, spark fresh thinking, and offer practical strategies to future-proof your business—without losing what made it great in the first place.

About Tony:

Tony Nuckolls is a seasoned business leader and dynamic professional speaker with deep expertise in Business Development, Training, Marketing, and Leadership Development. He has delivered impactful presentations for organizations such as Blue Pax Pharma, New Home Star, the NS3 Conference, Great Places to Work Forum, and numerous academic institutions, including the University of Michigan and Michigan State University.

Tony began his career at General Motors and Gannett Newspapers before joining a rapidly growing startup that would evolve into Rocket Companies. He started at Rock Financial, the precursor to Rocket, where he quickly rose to become one of the company’s top mortgage professionals.

Over the years, Tony has held several key leadership roles within Rocket, including serving on the in-house Marketing Team, as Vice President of Training & Development, and ultimately as Executive Vice President. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping the company’s growth and culture.

Beyond his corporate achievements, Tony is deeply committed to community service. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Detroit Police Athletic League and the Marketing Leadership Advisory Board for the Broad College of Business.

His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including being named a Man of Excellence by the Michigan Chronicle, Community Leader of the Year by the University of Phoenix, and recipient of Michigan State University’s Clarence “Biggie” Munn Extra Effort Award—an honor recognizing graduates who exemplify integrity, character, and the belief that “the difference between good and great is just a little extra effort.”

Tony holds a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and a master’s degree from the University of Phoenix. He lives in metro Detroit with his wife, Heather, and their three children.