2024 Workforce Summit

The Fayette Chamber Workforce Development Summit is a one-day event aimed at bringing together business leaders, educators, policymakers, and community stakeholders for the purpose solving workforce challenges. The event will discuss best practices in talent attraction and retention, enhancing skills development, and create strategic solutions that ensure a dynamic and competitive local economy.

Keynote Speaker - Workforce Outlook - Chris Clark – CEO, Georgia Chamber of Commerce 
 
AI at Work: Use Case & Market Analysis – Tim Visconti – Executive Managing Partner/ Growth, PeopleLift (Confirmed)
There has been much excitement in the last 18 months about Generative AI and how it can be deployed in the workplace. However, companies are struggling to understand this new technology and how best to capitalize on its promise especially when it comes to talent attraction and employee retention. Join us for a talk that explores the potential use cases for AI in the workplace and provides a market overview of the emerging solutions in this dynamic field.
 
Developing Your Own Talent Pool: A Case Study in Creating Your Own Labor Pipeline, The Strack Model - Jonathan Strack, CEO of Strack Inc.
Strack, Inc.’s Training Program includes extensive new-hire training as well as ongoing operator and leadership development. Every aspect of the program, from simulation environments to specialized workshops, is designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning including a dedicated Training Team, a 2500 sq ft training facility, a mobile training trailer, and a new 8-acre Training Ground, equipped with advanced heavy equipment, on-site classroom space, and CAT and TenStar simulators. These environments foster hands-on learning and provide daily training for crews, along with opportunities for external groups to participate in field trips and demonstrations.
 
Sourcing Talent: Non-traditional and Public Sector Approaches to Staffing
This panel explores innovative strategies for building a diverse and skilled workforce. This program highlights the value of tapping into non-traditional talent pools through apprenticeships, internships, and partnerships with technical colleges, as well as engaging individuals with special needs. By embracing these alternative pathways, organizations can meet staffing needs while fostering inclusion and cultivating a pipeline of talent ready to meet the demands of the modern workplace.

• MODERATOR – Jamal Jessie, Georgia Power

• Panelists –

  • Stephanie Scearce – Vice President, Georgia Association of Manufacturers

  • Dr. Irvin Clark – President, Southern Crescent Technical College

  • Ashlee Cooper – HR Executive Director, HRBP  Piedmont Fayette Hospital

  • Melanie Duncan – Work based Learning Coordinator, Fayette County Public Schools

       Break

 
Fireside Chat – Beyond the Hire: Why Your Company Needs a Retention Strategy - Terreta Rodgers – Head of Community Affairs, Amazon (Atlanta Region) and Drew Epting – Director of Talent Services, MAU Workforce Solutions  
This discussion delves into the critical importance of retaining talent in today's competitive job market. This conversation will explore key strategies for employee engagement, development, and satisfaction, emphasizing how a strong retention plan not only reduces turnover but also enhances company culture and long-term success. Join us to learn why keeping your best employees is just as important as finding them.
 
Closing Keynote – The Role of Culture in Employee Retention - Stephen Childs – Chief Human Resource Officer, Panasonic Automotive
The closing keynote address examines how a strong, positive workplace culture is essential to keeping top talent. This talk will explore the connection between organizational values, employee satisfaction, and long-term loyalty, highlighting how culture influences everything from job satisfaction to career development. Attendees will gain insights into creating a culture that not only attracts but also retains high-performing employees, driving sustained success and growth.
 
Closing Comments