Opening Keynote: 8:15 a.m. - 9:15 a.m.
Creating a Limitless Culture
Ben Whiting, International Keynote Speaker
This high-impact, high-amazement keynote will inspire attendees to create a culture where the impossible is possible and human connection has no limits. Ben crafts a jaw-dropping experience that will transform your organization and equip your employees with the skills and mindset to unleash their full potential.
HRCI: 1 general credit
SHRM: 1 recertification credit
Morning Breakouts: 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Interpreting Financial Data for HR Decision Making - Panel Discussion
Allyson Boyle, CFO, Michigan Women Forward
Philip Bradley, CFO, Niles Industrial Coatings LLC
Sarah Jennings, CPA, CFE, CAE, Principal, Maner Costerisan
Avec O'Brien, CFO, Walker-Miller Energy Services
Moderated by Tracy Neil, CFO, ASE
The ability to understand and speak the language of finance, including budgets, return on investment (ROI), and expenditure management, is crucial for making informed decisions and contributing to the overall success of the organization. This specialized session aims to bridge the knowledge gap between CFOs and HR professionals, facilitating productive conversations and collaboration.
HRCI: 1 business credit
SHRM: 1 recertification credit
Culture & Compliance: How HR Professionals Can Have Their Coffee and Drink it Too
Jodi Latuszek, Vice President of HR, Legal, and ESG, Biggby Coffee
Jodi shares her story of how a transition from a traditional workplace culture to a flexible, purpose driven workplace highlights how companies do not have to sacrifice compliance efforts to create a culture that is propelled by purpose and centered around people. This session can help any HR professional focus on purpose-driven cultural initiatives, while also mitigating risk. When it comes to culture and compliance, HR professionals can have their coffee...and drink it too!
HRCI: 1 general credit
SHRM: 1 recertification credit
Exploring AI in Recruitment
Jan Harrington Davis, Senior VP, Talent Attraction, Corewell Health
This session will explore the integration of artificial intelligence in various stages of the recruitment process. Topics included will be AI driven resume screening, candidate matching algorithms, automated interview processes, and predictive analysis for candidate success. In addition, we will also cover ethical considerations, potential biases, and the impact of AI on the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the recruiting workflow.
HRCI: 1 general credit
SHRM: 1 recertification credit
Mid-Morning Breakouts: 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
HR in Solitude: Navigating the Challenges of a Department of One - Panel Discussion
Erika Diviney, Corporate HR Manager, Crypton LLC
Michele LeBourdais, PHR, SHRM-CP, VP, People, TRUE Community Credit Union
Colton Pfaendtner, HR Generalist, Lube Power
Tanzania Talbert, Manager, Human Resources, AIAG - Automotive Industry Action Group
Moderated by Kevin Marrs, VP, ASE
In this engaging panel discussion, we delve into the unique world of being an HR professional in a department of one. Join us as seasoned HR leaders share their experiences, insights, and strategies for thriving in the often dynamic and demanding role of the sole HR representative within an organization. Discover practical solutions and best practices that can help you excel in your solitary HR journey, from compliance to employee relations and everything in between.
HRCI: 1 general credit
SHRM: 1 recertification credit
A Blueprint for Excellence in the Face of Workforce and Technological Shifts
Jeannine Kunz, Chief Workforce Development Officer, Society of Manufacturing Engineers
The current manufacturing environment is changing dramatically, requiring the use of new technologies and associated knowledge and skills. At the same time, the workforce landscape is also changing. This means our nation’s companies are at a turning point and a proactive plan to address their talent needs is critical. There are major changes underway in the demand and supply for manufacturing workers – many driven by new technologies and the aging workforce – that will require new strategies and tactics for both companies and employees. In this digital age, it is not just about embracing technology; it's about empowering and nurturing the workforce to drive innovation and secure a sustainable future.
HRCI: 1 business credit
SHRM: 1 recertification credit
Finders Keepers - Winning the Talent Challenge
Kelly Merbler, Keynote Speaker, Consultant, Executive Coach
In this interactive session, Kelly uncovers the pressure organizations are under to recruit and retain talent. Learn how to offer fulfilling work, ongoing opportunities, workplace flexibility, and a diverse value-oriented workplace. Understand how to create a magnetic culture that people want to be a part of.
HRCI: 1 general credit
SHRM: 1 recertification credit
Afternoon Breakouts: 1:15 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.
Reflections from HR Leaders - Panel Discussion
Calethia A. Binion, Director, Human Resources, Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation
Jody A. Connally, MSA, HR Executive, Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network
Sylvia Lozoya, Director of Human Resources, Alliance Catholic Credit Union
Corrie Piotrowski, SHRM-CP, Assistant VP for Administration and Business Affairs/Director of Human Resources, Saginaw Valley State University
Moderated by Patrice Matejka, HR Business Leader, Coach, Mentor
In this thought-provoking session, our distinguished panelists will discuss the challenges they faced, the valuable lessons they've learned, and how they would approach their roles differently if they could turn back time. Gain a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of human resources and gather actionable takeaways to enhance your own HR leadership journey.
HRCI: 1 general credit
SHRM: 1 recertification credit
Employment Law Update
Anne-Marie Welch, Member, Clark Hill, PLC
2023 was a busy and complicated year for HR professionals with more of the same expected for 2024. We have the proposed wage and hour regulations on independent contractor, National Labor Relations Board regulations on joint employment, Federal Trade Commission (FTC) banning non competes, and the 16 employment bills being pushed through the Michigan Legislature – including the Crown Act to House Bill 4474 making using wrong pronouns a crime. In addition, the Michigan Supreme Court heard arguments on the original Michigan Sick Leave Act. In this session, participants will learn about new legislative and agency activities and court cases; learn strategies for compliance; and hear what is expected in election year 2024.
HRCI: 1 business credit
SHRM: 1 recertification credit
Communications Skills for Connection & Influence
Ben Whiting, International Keynote Speaker
What’s the difference between a great idea communicated poorly and a poor idea? Most would say there’s no difference at all, but the reality is there’s a huge loss in value when we can’t communicate valuable ideas. Most people don’t realize that only 10% of what we communicate is in the words we use. The majority of what we communicate is in how we say those words and in our body language. In this breakout session, Ben will use his background in theatre and corporate entertainment to make sure the value you offer is clearly understood by anyone who communicates with you.
HRCI: 1 general credit
SHRM: 1 recertification credit
Afternoon Keynote: 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Fire Your Inner Boss & Unleash Your Leadership Brilliance!
Kelly Merbler, Keynote Speaker, Consultant, Executive Coach
The business environment is always changing, and in order to excel, every leader needs to make ongoing “leadershifts” – changes that positively enhance personal and organizational growth. The reality is that change is hard, and it takes a willingness to want to change backed by accountability to be successful. There is brilliance within all of us; we just have to unleash it.
HRCI: 1 general credit
SHRM: 1 recertification credit