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Pre-Conference Executive Session

Innovation and Transformation through Business Acumen Programs E. Ted Prince, The Perth Leadership Institute Wednesday, October 15, 1:00 p.m.--4:30 p.m. Program approved for strategic recertification credits.

Traditional competency assessments do not specifically focus on innate financial competencies and business acumen. This presentation discusses these and the nine financial signatures of executives. It shows how each of these impacts financial performance, innovation and valuation outcomes of organizations and how they can be leveraged into impactful business transformation programs. Based on Dr. Prince's book "The Three Financial Styles of Very Successful Leaders" (McGraw Hill, 2005) the presentation discusses how to identify and measure financial impact and business acumen using formal assessment instruments and how to use these findings to implement corporate business transformation programs, which bring about real changes in financial performance, competitive positioning and market value.

E. Ted Prince, Ph.D., is CEO and Founder of The Perth Leadership Institute, which provides business acumen programs to large corporations. He is the author of The Three Financial Styles of Very Successful Leaders (McGraw Hill, 2005). He has numerous other publications in this area. His experience encompasses 20 years as a CEO running several companies including one public company. Dr. Prince also holds the position of Visiting Lecturer at the University of Florida. He is a well-known public speaker in the areas of leadership and management. Dr. Prince holds a BA First Class Honors degree in languages and political science from the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia, and an MA and Ph.D. degree in political science from Monash University in Melbourne, Australia. Pre-Conference Legal Sessions

Successful Management Training Strategies to Prevent Legal Claims Ann Barry Hanneman, Cook & Franke, S.C. Wednesday, October 15, 1:00 p.m.--2:45 p.m. Program approved for general recertification credits.

Preventing legal claims in the workplace is a priority for every HR department. Although most HR professionals agree that manager and supervisory training is critical to preventing legal claims and limiting exposure, it is frequently overlooked. Time, resources, and day-to-day responsibilities often prevent HR departments from developing and implementing sound training strategies to minimize legal claims. In this interactive session, Ann will identify organizational assessment tools that can be tailored to apply to any organization, regardless of size. She will also discuss strategies that can be implemented to achieve successful results in minimizing exposure to legal claims. Ann will specifically highlight specific key legal training components given the most typical employment law claims and address those cases in which courts have been critical of supervisory training efforts. Participants will also be provided with strategies that can be implemented to ensure successful ongoing managerial training.

Ann Barry Hanneman is a shareholder at Cook & Franke S.C. and acts as legal counsel to management in labor and employment law matters, including representing employers in federal and state employment litigation. Ms. Hanneman has successfully tried two federal court jury trials, and regularly represents employers in administrative matters as well as federal and state court proceedings. In addition to litigation, Ms. Hanneman’s practice includes advising employers with regard to employment discrimination, negotiating separation agreements, handling sexual harassment complaints, drafting employee handbooks, and developing policies. She has also advised on managing wage and hour matters and leave requests in compliance with state and federal law. Ms. Hanneman is a frequent author and speaker on employment law matters and provides management training for companies on such topics as employment discrimination, Family and Medical Leave Act compliance, discipline and discharge, drafting employee handbooks, ADA compliance, and updates on current cases and legislation affecting employment law and human resources.

Managing the Electronic Workplace: E-Discovery & Record Retention Margaret Kurlinski, Godfrey & Kahn, S.C. Wednesday, October 15, 2:45 p.m.--4:30 p.m. Program approved for general recertification credits.

This session will address the new rules governing electronic discovery in litigation and the important implications for employers. The presenter will discuss how the new rules have changed employers’ obligations to preserve evidence when litigation is threatened and identify best practices and procedures for record retention.

Margaret Kurlinski is an associate member of Godfrey & Kahn’s Labor and Employment Practice Group. Margaret represents clients in a variety of labor and employment matters including the hiring and firing of employees, restrictive covenant agreements, family and medical leave, federal and state discrimination claims, wage and hour laws, and affirmative action plans. Margaret advises employers on workplace policies and practices and regularly conducts workshops and seminars on employment law topics for clients and other employment law professionals. Margaret received her law degree from Washington University School of Law with honors. Pre-Conference Other Session

STP – Stress, Time, and Procrastination Management: Are You a BURNOUT? Kit Welchlin, Welchlin Communication Strategies Wednesday, October 15, 1:00 p.m.--4:30 p.m. Please note this session is for personal development and does not count for recertification credit as the content is not tied to the HR Certification Institute’s body of knowledge.

Nearly half of the nation’s workers say job stress is destroying their mental and physical health and eroding their productivity. Balance the quickness, quantity, and quality of your life. Learn: -the benefits and consequences of stress -the three stages of burnout -the thirty proven techniques to relieve stress -the top twenty time management techniques -the five steps to stop procrastination

Kit Welchlin purchased his first manufacturing company at age 21 and by age 26 was CEO and Chairman of the Board of 3 manufacturing companies in 3 states. He has been an instructor with the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, where he has been repeatedly nominated as outstanding faculty. Actionable Employee Surveys: Best Practices for Turning Feedback into Action David Youssefnia, Critical Metrics, LLC Friday, October 17, 10:00 a.m.--11:15 a.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

The employee survey has increased in both popularity and importance over the last decade or so. This is in part driven by the increased availability of web-based survey technology and by the heightened importance of human capital for business success. Despite this growth in popularity, one of the main concerns still expressed about surveys is that they don’t always lead to action. In this session, we will share some best practices to ensure your survey leads to action.

David Yousssefnia, Ph.D., has been working with organizations over the last 10 years to help them realize that to measuring matters in order to be successful. He has helped clients successfully implement and act on feedback from teams, employees, and customers. David has worked with a wide variety of organizations in a number of industry sectors. Prior to founding Critical Metrics, David was a senior consultant for a global HR consulting firm. An engaging and knowledgeable speaker, David is an active faculty member of Baruch College’s International Executive MS Program in Management of HR and Global Leadership. David received his B.A. in Psychology from the State University of New York at Albany and his M.S. and Ph.D. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology from the City University of New York.

Avoiding and Responding to Workplace Immigration Raids Heather Tiltmann, Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C. Thomas Godar, Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C. Friday, October 17, 6:30 a.m. --7:30 a.m. Audience Level-Basic Program approved for general recertification credits.

Over the past year, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) has significantly increased its worksite enforcement activities against employers, including audits and raids, as well as arrests and federal indictments of employers, human resource managers, and supervisors. This session will outline ICE’s new and enhanced enforcement tools, as well as provide employers with practical advice as to how to respond to government inquiries, audits, and raids.

Heather Tiltmann is an attorney in the Milwaukee office of Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., where her practice is devoted entirely to the area of employment law. Her experience includes consulting with and advising a wide range of corporate clients, from international corporations to small businesses, on available and appropriate work visa options for foreign workers, non-immigrant and immigrant petition preparation, and other related supporting documentation. She has received her B.S. and her J.D. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Thomas Godar is a shareholder at Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek’s Madison office and leads the labor and employment group there. Mr. Godar brings a 25 year passion for solving clients’ problems to his practice, which spans traditional labor law and all aspects of employment counseling and law. He is a board member of the Associated General Contractors of Wisconsin, an Advisory Board Member of the Residential Services Association of Wisconsin, a member of the Society for Human Resource Management and former member and Chairman of the Wisconsin State Elections Board (Special Counsel, Governor’s Office). Mr. Godar earned his J.D. and B.A. from the University of Wisconsin, and his Telugu Diploma from Andhra University in Vishkaputnam, India. Certification Basics Karen Brzezinski, SPHR, Gannett Wisconsin Media Thursday, October 16, 6:45 a.m.--7:45 a.m. Audience Level-Basic Please note this session is for personal development and does not count for recertification credit as the content is not tied to the HR Certification Institute’s body of knowledge.

Wondering if certification is right for you? This session will tell you everything you want to know about certification . . .and more! Learn about the importance of becoming HRCI certified, how to prepare for the test successfully and how to maintain certification.

Karen Brzezinski is the Regional HR Director for Gannett Central Wisconsin Media and an adjunct instructor in HR for Northcentral Technical College. Volunteer positions include: WISHRM State Certification Director from 2004 - 2007, past board member and president of the Central Wisconsin SHRM Chapter, HRCI study group facilitator for several years. Karen holds a B.S. in HR Management from Upper Iowa University.

The Carrot Principle: How the Best Managers Use Recognition to Engage Their People, Retain Talent, and Accelerate Performance Andrea Gappmayer, The Carrot Culture Group Thursday, October 16, 10:30 a.m. --11:45 a.m. Audience Level-Basic Program approved for general recertification credits.

Got carrotphobia? Do you think that recognizing your employees will distract you and your team from more serious business, create jealousy, or make you look soft? Think again. The Carrot Principle reveals the groundbreaking results of one of the most in-depth management studies ever undertaken, showing definitively that the central characteristic of the most successful managers is that they provide their employees with frequent and effective recognition. Drawing on case studies, this session will show how the transformative power of purpose-based recognition produces astonishing increases in operating results, and how great managers lead with carrots, not sticks, to achieve higher productivity, engagement, retention, and customer satisfaction.

Andrea Gappmayer is a former radio disc jockey and long-time trainer. Andrea came to O.C. Tanner with years of experience entertaining and interacting with people. Whether broadcasting live while bungee jumping, interviewing highly respectable musicians, or giving relationship advice on her Friday evening talk-show, Andrea brought quick wit and enthusiasm into every aspect of her 11-year radio career. She was nominated for ‘Personality of the Year’ by Radio and Records magazine in 2000 and in 2002 was voted as ‘Best Disc Jockey in Utah’-she has the plaque to prove it. An engaging presenter and affable speaker, Andrea blends her brand of humor and wit with rich content and solid data to create a powerful, memorable presentation.

The Changing Landscape: Union Issues and Concerns for Employers David Kern, Quarles & Brady, LLP Thursday, October 16, 3:15 p.m.--4:30 p.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for strategic recertification credits.

This session will describe recent National Labor Relations Board decisions regarding supervisory status, restrictions on the use of email systems for union activity, and related case developments, many of which represent a radical shift in Board thinking. The Employee Free Choice Act and other anticipated legislative developments dealing with union organizing issues, and what employers can do to anticipate and effectively address these concerns will be discussed.

Dave Kern is a partner in the Milwaukee office of Quarles & Brady LLP, practicing in the area of Labor and Employment law. He chairs Quarles & Brady's National Labor Relations Act Team. His practice emphasizes union relations, collective bargaining, defense of discrimination and unfair labor practice claims, and employer counseling on all aspects of Labor and Employment law. Dave is a former Director of the State Bar's Labor and Employment Law Section, and he co-authored Wisconsin Employment Law, published by the State Bar of Wisconsin. He earned his undergraduate degree, summa cum laude, from Marquette University and his law degree, magna cum laude, from the University of Michigan.

Connecting to WI SHRM Kristine Hackbarth-Horn, SPHR, CCP, Goodwill Industries of NCW Bob Swanson, SPHR, ProHealth Care Medical Associates Thursday, October 16, 1:00 p.m. -- 2:15 p.m. Audience Level-Basic Please note this session is for personal development and does not count for recertification credit as the content is not tied to the HR Certification Institute’s body of knowledge.

Have you ever wondered how to get involved in the WI State Council, how the Council provides support to your local chapter and our HR professionals across the state? If so, this session is for you.

Come and learn more about how the Council is structured, how you can become a volunteer for the Council, or how you can get involved in the State Conference Committee. During the session we will use our new website www.wishrm.org as a tool to expose you to a deeper understanding of how the Council is positioned for “Developing Professionals” and “Serving the HR Profession.” This session will also provide you with a greater understanding of the role the Council plays in supporting your local SHRM chapters and the resources available to HR professionals across the state. Come, learn more, and get involved!

Kristine Hackbarth-Horn has over eighteen years of HR management and leadership experience. In her current role of Chief Operating Officer of People, she is responsible for working with over 1,400 team members, program participants, and volunteers in the organization to insure fulfillment of Goodwill NCW’s number one core value of “Putting People First.” In the last couple of years, she has been an active member of Fox Valley Society of Human Resources Manager (SHRM) board, serving in President Elect, President, and the Past President positions. In addition, she has been a member of the State of Wisconsin SHRM Council, serving twice as the co-chair for the WI State SHRM State Conference, and 3 years as Wisconsin State Council Conference Liaison Director. She currently is serving as the Leadership Director and Director Elect for the Wisconsin State Council. Kristine also has earned her Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) Certification and her Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) designation from the World at Work.

Bob Swanson, SPHR is the Director of Human Resources for ProHealth Care Medical Associates, a multi- specialty healthcare system with 26 clinics, 250 physicians and 1,700 employees across southeast Wisconsin. ProHealth Care Medical Associates recently won “Best Places to Work” from Milwaukee Magazine (2008) and was named “One of America’s Healthiest Places To Work – Gold Award” by WELCOA (2007). Bob’s professional career includes sixteen years of HR strategy and operations leadership in healthcare, financial, and manufacturing settings. Bob earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Business Administration at Marquette University, and is certified as a Senior Professional in Human Resources. He has been active in SHRM as past president of Metro-Milwaukee SHRM (fka HRMA), WI state conference co-chair (2005), and currently serves as WI State Council Director.

Culture Change: A Breakthrough in Performance Donald Theune, Donnic Consulting Group, LLC Friday, October 17, 10:00 a.m.--11:15 a.m. Audience Level-Basic Program approved for general recertification credits.

Over 95 percent of accidents and injuries are caused by human factors. Safety performance is impacted and in turn, production and quality are impacted. This session will take an in-depth look at what it takes to improve your culture. This session will also explore major causes of accidents and injuries. Learn about the barriers that limit performance and about the beliefs that make culture change so difficult. Donald Theune has over 17 years experience in the culture change field. He has coordinated and managed over 300 culture change implementations at Fortune 500 companies across a variety of industries. He has over 25 years of industrial management experience.

Demystifying HR System Selection & Implementation Gillian Oechslin, Prompt, Incorporated Friday, October 17, 10:00 a.m.--11:15 a.m. Audience Level Basic Program approved for strategic recertification credits.

This session will provide a logical and efficient method to evaluate, select and implement HR software that will “demystify” the process. Templates for workflow and software evaluation, a technical jargon “cheat sheet”, and other helpful project management tools will be shared.

Gillian Oechslin is a co-founder of Prompt Incorporated - Creative Computing Resources. Prompt Incorporated specializes in the development of custom HRIS and compensation software solutions. She consults with small privately held firm up to large public, global corporations. Gillian possesses a B.S. from University of Maryland

Disability Insurance: Emerging Trends and Market Overview Ed Rapee, III, Mortenson, Matzelle & Meldrum, Inc. John Roberts, Assurant Employee Benefits Friday, October 17, 11:30 a.m.--12:45 p.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

Attendees will gain valuable insight regarding how disabilities can impact them and their organizations. In addition, they will learn about the need for a disability insurance program. After the session, attendees will know what to look for in both a disability insurance plan and a disability insurance provider.

Ed Rapee, III is a Senior Account Executive in the Milwaukee office of Mortenson, Matzelle & Meldrum, Inc. (M3). His primary role is to place and service employee benefit insurance products. Ed consults and advises clients on design and implementation of their employee benefit programs. Ed earned a B.S. in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, with an emphasis in Business and Spanish as a foreign language.

John S. Roberts is currently serving as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of Assurant Employee Benefits on behalf of Mr. Michael Peninger, who is currently serving as Interim Chief Financial Officer of Assurant, Inc. Mr. Roberts had most recently served as Senior Vice President of Assurant Employee Benefits and President of Disability RMS, positions he has held since January 2004. Mr. Roberts is currently a member of the board of directors and recently elected as Vice Chairman for The Council of Disability Awareness. He is also a past chairman of the Health Insurance Association of America’s (HIAA) Disability Sub-committee, and Board trustee and treasurer for the Portland (Maine) Museum of Art.

Disaster Recovery / Human Resource Issues Thomas Godar, J.D., Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C. Thursday, October 16, 1:00 p.m.--2:15 p.m. Audience Level-Basic Program approved for general recertification credits.

This presentation will focus on disaster recovery and business continuation plans. In addition, it will discuss disasters caused internally, external threats, human resource and management responses, access to benefit plans, and other related major issues. Thomas Godar is a shareholder at Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek’s Madison office and leads the labor and employment group. He brings a 25-year passion for solving clients’ problems to his practice. He has experience in nearly all forms of administrative and civil litigation, whether at the federal or state level, and has been involved in areas as sexual harassment avoidance, wage and hour issues, union avoidance, and executive compensation and contracts.

Early Intervention and Return-To-Work: Is It Really Worth It? Allison A. Hanson and Jill A. Allen, The ALARIS Group, Inc Thursday, October 16, 3:15 p.m.--4:30 p.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

As an employer, have you ever wondered what the financial impact was to your experience modification factor or to your workers’ compensation premium when you have an individual who is out of work due to a workers’ compensation injury? Do you implement early intervention? How important is early return to work for your organization when dealing with workers’ compensation injuries? The financial benefit of both early intervention and early return to work is truly staggering! This highly informative session will deal with workers’ compensation, and more specifically, the cost savings benefit to early intervention of case management. This session also discusses the financial impact to employers that inevitably follows once an employer implements a formalized early return to work plan.

Allison A. Hanson is a Senior Account Executive and a member of the Marketing Team with the ALARIS Group Inc., a leading resource for insurance carriers, agencies, attorneys, and employers striving to maximize the recovery of the injured employee, yet minimize the financial impact. Allison is well versed in providing guidance to employers and carriers on litigated claims, settlement negotiations, reserve analysis and reduction, supervisor and management training, and accident investigation. She also has advised on early return-to-work initiatives, prompt reporting training, medical relations rapport, experience modification analysis, and reduction. She received her undergraduate degree in History from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and her MBA from Cardinal Stritch University.

Jill A. Allen RN, MS is the Director of Sales and Operations with the ALARIS Group, Inc. She has been in the worker’s compensation case management industry for the past 13 years. Ms. Allen has been a Registered Nurse since 1985, holds a B.S. in Business Management and a MS in Health Services Administration. Ms. Allen has worked with numerous carriers and employers and has developed a number of in-house integrated disability programs. Ms Allen has served as the Vice President of MIAA and currently is an Officer of the Worker’s Compensation Forum.

Excelling as a Team; an Introduction to Team Coaching Cathy Welsh, Lee Hecht Harrison Thursday, October 16, 3:15 p.m.--4:30 p.m. Audience Level-Advanced Program approved for general recertification credits.

Teams exist to produce results and the culture of a team has the power to block or unlock results. Hear how working with a team as a system, instead of as a collection of individuals, will create a high-performing, sustainable, and inspired team. Participants will be introduced to a “positivity” and “productivity” model, a dual approach for teams to learn new ways of working together. The approach allows the team to develop team intelligence competencies and provides the support structure to help ensure that the team stays on track to produce results. If your goal is to excel as a team, this is the presentation to attend!

Cathy Welsh has focused her career on growing, developing, and rebuilding professional services organizations. Most of these organizations had declining operational and financial performance and diminishing credibility with stakeholders. Through her ability to quickly assess the organizations and the market, she was able to provide value to clients while at the same time achieving excellent financial results within her areas of responsibility. She was able to build long-term client relationships that helped to ensure a consistent profitable income stream over multiple years. In addition, Cathy is known for her decisiveness, organizational skills, strategy development, and implementation.

Growing at the Speed of Change Barbara Bartlein, Great Lakes Consulting Group Friday, October 17, 10:00 a.m.--12:00 p.m. Executive Session Audience Level-Advanced Program approved for general recertification credits.

While we experience change our entire lives, many of us tend to resist change, even when it is good for us. We become comfortable with the known and uncomfortable with the unknown. This interactive and fun seminar focuses on change and how to handle it effectively, both individually and organizationally.

Barbara Bartlein is “The People Pro” and President of Great Lakes Consulting Group, which helps companies sell more goods and services through employee development. She provides consultation, training and keynotes across the country, and is considered an expert in relationships. A frequent guest on radio and T.V., she is Past- President of the National Speaker’s Association-Wisconsin Chapter. Barbara has owned and operated three businesses, one that now trades on the New York Stock Exchange. She previously was Vice President of St. Mary’s Hospital in Milwaukee. Barbara is the author of ‘The People Pro’, a monthly column that appears in The Business Journal and other periodicals. She is also a contributing author for the Chicken Soup for the Soul series. Her book, Why Did I Marry You Anyway?, sold out its first printing and is a bestseller on Amazon.

Handling Agreements: Offer Letters & Severance Agreements Ron Pfeifer, Godfrey & Kahn, S.C. Thursday, October 16, 1:00 p.m.--2:15 p.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

This presentation focuses on practical approaches to preventing and managing employment law problems. It is designed to provide employers with information concerning recent changes in labor and employment law and suggest effective strategies to deal with these changes. This interactive session will explore what to include in an offer letter, when to use a reduction in force severance agreements, the difference between an over-40 and under- 40 severance agreements, and the necessary elements of a well-constructed settlement agreement.

Ron Pfeifer is a member of the Labor & Employment Law Practice Group in the Green Bay office. He generally counsels employers on human resources issues, such as employee disciple and discrimination issues. He directs employers in their collective bargaining negotiations and frequently represents employers in arbitration cases when they are unable to resolve pending disputes with the labor unions which represent their employees. He received his B.A. degree from the University of Nebraska and his law degree from Northwestern University Law School.

Health Savings Accounts Versus Health Reimbursement Arrangements Katie Held, Wausau Signature Agency Greg Kamps, WSA Employee Benefits Thursday, October 16, 10:30 a.m. --11:45 a.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

Ever hit a speed bump or road construction when making decisions about healthcare? What is your role in consumer driven healthcare? This informative session will discuss the evolution of consumer driven healthcare and how it is speeding forward, as well as how to merge employees into the future. Katie Held joined Wausau Signature Agency (WSA) in 2006 with more than 12 years in the insurance industry. Katie started her insurance career as an Account Specialist with Humana, working directly with employer groups. She was then an Injury Investigator for American Medical Security in the company’s subrogation unit. Katie then transitioned into the clinical side of insurance as a Contract Reimbursement Coordinator, where she monitored direct and network contracts, audited claims, and provided medical appeals as an advocate for the patients of Prevea Health Systems, a large provider system in Green Bay, Wisconsin. In 2006, Katie started her career with WSA as a Group Benefit Specialist. She was promoted in January of 2007 to Employee Benefit Advisor. She is currently pursuing the Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) professional designation.

Greg Kamps, Director of Sales, WSA Employee Benefits, Milwaukee joined The Life Company of Wausau Insurance Companies in 1977 as an Employee Benefits Consultant, Portland, Ore. Subsequently, Greg held a number of positions of increasing responsibility in Wausau’s Boise, ID, and Peoria, IL offices. He was promoted to Director of Sales for WSA Employee Benefits in 2007. Greg received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. He has earned the Certified Employee Benefits Speciliast (CEBS) professional designation conferred by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Hiring & Firing Mark Johnson, J.D., Krukowski & Costello, S.C. Thursday, October 16, 10:30 a.m.—11:45 a.m. Thursday, October 16, 1:00 p.m.--2:15 p.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

This session will help human resource professionals make better hiring and termination decisions. It will provide the knowledge necessary to ensure compliance with the many state and federal laws that apply when making such decisions. This includes laws that address discrimination, background checks, retaliation, wrongful discharge, wage and hour, immigration, covenants not to compete, confidentiality agreements and trade secrets – just to name a few!

Mark A. Johnson is an attorney with Krukowski & Costello, S.C. He represents businesses in all aspects of employment and labor law. Mark handles litigation and provides preventive advice on matters such as employment discrimination, harassment, wage and hour, defamation, employment contracts, confidentiality and non-compete agreements, trade secrets, union organizing, unfair labor practice charges, and arbitration. Mark is a frequent speaker and author on a variety of topics related to litigation and labor and employment law. Mark is admitted to practice in Wisconsin and numerous federal courts. Mark earned his law degree, magna cum laude, from Marquette University.

“How Can We Help You?” The Employer’s Duty to Accommodate Sara Ackermann, Ruder Ware Friday, October 17, 11:30 a.m.--12:45 p.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

How must an employee request a reasonable accommodation? Do we have to provide the accommodation the employee wants? Do we have to hold an employee’s job open as a reasonable accommodation? How do we get information we need from the employee’s doctor? What is the “interactive process” and why is it so important? Attorney Ackermann will answer these questions and provide you with practical tips for handling requests for reasonable accommodation so you can minimize liability in disability discrimination cases.

Sara Ackermann has substantial experience advising and representing clients in the employment law arena. Her experience includes counseling employers on every aspect of federal and state employment laws including laws regarding: drug and alcohol testing, background checks, employee privacy, wrongful discharge, anti- discrimination, anti-harassment, plant closing and mass lay-off, wage and hour, family medical leave, and reasonable accommodation. She also has experience representing employers in employment litigation matters, guiding employers in conducting workplace investigations, representing employers in Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) and Department of Labor (DOL) audits, and reviewing employer wage and hour practices including: exempt/non-exempt position classifications, meal/rest break practices, off the clock, and record keeping issues. In addition, she has assisted employers in drafting employee handbooks, separation agreements, disciplinary memoranda, affirmative action plans, and employment contracts. She has also conducted employment law training for employers.

How to Engage & Retain Star Performers Mary Jane Mapes, BS, MA, CSP, The Aligned Leader Institute Thursday, October 16, 1:00 p.m. --2:15p.m. Thursday, October 16, 3:15 p.m.--4:30 p.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

Research indicates that 80% of employees who leave their place of employment are not looking for greener pastures, but rather are fleeing poor management practices and toxic workplace cultures. In this session, you will learn the secrets to keeping your star performers happy, engaged, and committed to you and your organization.

Mary Jane Mapes is the founder and president of The Aligned Leader Institute, a management consulting and leadership development organization. Mary Jane speaks throughout the US and Canada on the topics of leadership development, executive coaching, customer service, and interpersonal communication. Mary Jane is a member of SHRM, ASTD, NSA, and is past-president of her local chapter of the American Society for Training & Development and past-president of the National Speakers Association-Michigan Chapter. She is author of the book, The Art of Fielding Questions with Finesse, a quarterly newsletter, and numerous articles on the subjects of leadership, communications, and customer service.

The HR Professional’s Critical Partnership Role in Your Current & Future Workforce Margie Harvey, SPHR, Miles Kimball Company Martin Tadlock, Ph.D., UW-Oshkosh Thursday, October 16, 1:00 p.m.—2:15 p.m. Friday, October 17, 10:00 a.m.--11:15 a.m. Audience Level-Basic Program approved for strategic recertification credits.

This is a “must hear” session for all HR professionals of all levels within Wisconsin! What will it take to assure we have a qualified (current and future) workforce to draw from within the state of Wisconsin? How critical is HR’s strategic role with their executive and line leaders in making this happen? More importantly, “how” can the HR professional use their knowledge, networking, and influence to create critical business, community, and education partnerships to ensure your organization and Wisconsin is able to provide our future qualified workforce in a very competitive environment? This interactive session will provide answers to these questions and many more. You will walk away with a series of simple to advanced steps and strategies you can choose from that will enable you to immediately impact your current and future organization.

Margie Harvey, SPHR, is Vice President of Human Resources at Miles Kimball Company in Oshkosh. She has over 25 years of experience in Human Resources with companies including Wisconsin Tissue (aka SCA Tissue), biotech company Genencor Int’l, Ralston Purina, and The Dial Corp. Margie has a double B.A. in Business and Economics from Iowa Wesleyan College and her MBA from Western Illinois University. She is a member of the New North Business & Education Partnership Committee and is passionate about the importance of lifelong learning.

Dr. Martin Tadlock is currently Assistant Vice-Chancellor for Lifelong Learning and Community Engagement at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. He was Graduate Dean and Dean of the College of Professional Studies at California State University, Monterey Bay; Dean of the College of Professional Studies and School of Graduate Studies at Bemidji State University, Minnesota; and Associate Dean of Education and faculty member at Utah State University. Martin began his university career as a faculty member at the University of Wisconsin- Platteville as Director of the Center of Education for the Young Adolescent, a designated Center of Excellence within the Wisconsin State University System. His Ph.D. is in Educational Administration and Leadership from Miami University of Ohio.

HR’s Role in Developing Managers and Leaders Patrick Lucas, President, Lucas Training & Consulting, LLC Thursday, October 16, 10:30 a.m. --11:45 a.m. Thursday, October 16, 3:15 p.m. –4:30 p.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for strategic recertification credits.

This session draws a distinction between management and leadership, and explains why both skills are necessary in today’s business world. This session also examines HR’s role in developing managerial and leadership talent throughout an organization. In addition, this session discusses ideas for human resource professionals to help leaders in their organizations develop their managerial and leadership skills through formal training programs, mentoring programs, informal coaching, and leading by example. HR can, and should play a very important role in creating and developing leadership talent.

Pat Lucas is the owner of Lucas Training & Consulting in Green Bay. He specializes in providing leadership and team building training programs as well as general human resource consulting to his clients. Prior to starting his business, Pat spent over 20 years providing training and human resource support to a variety of companies in the Green Bay/Appleton area. He is currently a member of the Human Resources Advisory Board at Fox Valley Technical College in Appleton and serves as an adjunct instructor for their accelerated Human Resource Management program. He also serves as an adjunct professor for Concordia University and Marian College. Pat received a B.S. in Education from the University of Wisconsin – Stout and his M.S. in Management and Organizational Behavior from Silver Lake College.

Is Your HR Function Next-Gen Ready? Rebecca Ryan, Next Generation Consulting (NGC) Thursday, October 16, 10:30 a.m.--11:45 a.m.

In Rebecca Ryan's keynote presentation, she shared the six dimensions of engagement the next gen is looking for with their employers. HR professionals have a critical role to play in ensuring that these dimensions of engagement are leveraged, and reinforced with meaningful policies and practices.

In this interactive session, participants will complete the "Next Generation Company HR Audit Tool," to see how their HR departments and organizational practices and procedures stack up in the six dimensions of engagement...and in the eyes of young professionals. In addition, Rebecca will respond to participants questions about how to attract and engage next gen employees.

Keep Your Cost Trend Low While Increasing Patient Consumerism Mardi Burns, Associated Financial Group, LLC Friday, Oct 17, 10:00 a.m. --11:15 a.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

This breakout session will review the current health care landscape, teach you what “consumer assisted health care” is, and attendees will find out how they can reduce their organization’s costs without reducing benefits for their employees. We’ll wrap up the session with a real-world Q&A that will help attendees start thinking about developing a proper strategy, teach how to measure the metrics, and deliver staggering and impressive results. Mardi’s knowledge of the health care & wellness environment and the issues facing employers today, combined with her passion and enthusiastic speaking style, should make for an unforgettable and engaging learning session. Mardi Burns, CHC, is a Senior Vice President and Senior Benefits Consultant with Associated Financial Group, LLC, an employee benefits and human resources consulting firm with offices in Minneapolis, Milwaukee, the Fox Valley area, and numerous other locations throughout Wisconsin. Mardi works closely with both medium and large employers in designing, implementing, and managing their employee benefit plans. Her specialties include multi-sited self-funded plans, strategic planning facilitation, and integrated consumer-driven plans with a wellness/disease management focus. She also provides renewal and benefit analysis, union negotiation consulting, preparation of bid specifications and analysis, employee education, network analysis and data review with strategic recommendations. Mardi is a frequent speaker on employee benefits costs and solutions and wellness program implementation and management. She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin - Madison with a B.S. degree in Business Administration and she earned her MBA from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh School of Business. Mardi successfully earned her professional designation as a Certified Health Consultant in 1983.

Leaders: Communicate by Design to Handle Difficult Situations Aleta Norris, Impact Consulting Group, LLC. Friday, Oct 17, 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Friday, Oct 17, 11:30 a.m. --12:45 p.m. Audience Level-Basic Program approved for general recertification credits.

“I don’t know what to say!” Avoidance is a leader’s number one response when facing difficult situations. It’s not that they don’t WANT to address them, they just don’t know how! Learn how to Communicate by Design! Participants will know precisely what to say to get the conversation started. You will be equipped to minimize a negative emotional reaction from the other person and experience more success in engaging the other person and reaching a favorable outcome.

Aleta Norris has been working in the leadership development field for almost 20 years. From 1988 – 1995, she worked in affiliation with The Wilson Learning Corporation, an international training organization, and Humber, Mundie and McClary, a business psychology firm in Milwaukee, WI. In 1995, along with Nancy Lewis, she co- founded Impact Consulting Group, LLC, a broad-services organizational development consulting firm. In 2000, Aleta and Nancy co-founded the Living As A Leader™ division, focusing specifically on leadership training and coaching for leaders at all levels of an organization. She is the co-author of the Living As A Leader™ leadership development series. Aleta, who holds a Masters Degree in Organizational Science, is a dynamic speaker and is adept at inspiring organizations and leaders to better understand and commit to the critical responsibility of leadership.

Leadership Style and Versatility Andrea Miller, Guardian Thursday, October 16, 6:45 a.m.--7:45 a.m. Audience Level-Basic Please note this session is for personal development and does not count for recertification credit as the content is not tied to the HR Certification Institute’s body of knowledge.

The ability to modify style and approach to people and situations is essential for success as a manager and leader. Through utilization of the Myers Briggs Type Indicator tool, a self-assessment, and an exploration into leadership competencies, participants will uncover their own preferred leadership style and how these preferences and behaviors can impact those they lead.

Andrea Miller is currently employed as the Regional HR Manager for Guardian Insurance’s Midwest Regional Office in Appleton, Wisconsin. Andrea is an experienced leader with a background combining human resource management, organizational development, training, and distribution management. Andrea is a member the Green Bay SHRM chapter and is certified as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR). Andrea has also earned a certification through Personnel Decisions International for their leading multi-rater (360-degree feedback) instrument, PROFILOR and has recently been certified by Type Resources as a Qualified Practitioner for the MBTI Type Indicator tool. Andrea holds a B.S. degree from Millikin University and an MBA from Olivet Nazarene University.

A Legal Workout: Twists & Turns of Harassment, Discipline, and Disability Issues Jim Scott, Lindner & Marsack, S.C. Monica Murphy, Disability Rights Wisconsin Laura Linder, Lindner & Marsack, S.C. Thursday, October 16, 1:00 p.m.--2:15 p.m. Audience Level-Basic Program approved for general recertification credits.

Harassment, retaliation, and discipline issues involving employees with disabilities are emerging as unique workplace challenges for human resource managers and company supervisors. During this highly interactive session, attorneys and the audience will “argue” three cases from both perspectives (employee and employer), illustrate how differing federal and state laws may treat some of these issues, and offer practical tips and best practices for dealing with these very complex areas of the law.

Jim Scott is a shareholder and director with the law firm of Lindner & Marsack, S.C. His primary areas of concentration are employment litigation and employment discrimination. Jim’s work experience has included a number of federal and state court jury trials and appellate work before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court. Jim graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a B.S. degree and from Marquette University Law School. He was awarded a fellowship for graduate studies in law from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. He has made numerous presentations on a variety of labor and employment related matters to industry groups, the State Bar, and various public employer organizations.

Monica Murphy is an attorney with twenty two years of experience representing people in employment and discrimination matters. For the past fourteen years, since joining Disability Rights Wisconsin, her practice has been exclusively for people with disabilities. Her work includes representing individuals in employment related matters including discrimination and obtaining reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act. |Monica’s advocacy experience includes a broad range of interventions ranging from negotiations and mediation to state and federal court litigation. She also has extensive training experience including presentations to numerous groups and conferences on disability discrimination issues and team teaching at the University of Wisconsin Law School in their Disability Law Seminar.

Laura Linder is a shareholder and member of the Board of Directors of Lindner & Marsack, S.C. and has practiced exclusively in the area of labor and employment law throughout her entire career. Her practice has been focused primarily on the defense of employers in employment and benefits litigation in federal and state courts throughout the Midwest and in other regions of the United States. In addition, Laura has defended employers before federal, state, and municipal administrative agencies, as well as in labor arbitration proceedings. Applying her extensive litigation and jury trial experience, Laura counsels employers on a wide variety of employment matters, including litigation and class action avoidance strategies, conducting investigations of harassment and other employee misconduct, and accommodation and leave of absence issues. Laura was named a 2006 and 2007 “Rising Star” by Wisconsin Super Lawyers. She is also a fellow in the Litigation Counsel of America, a trial lawyer honorary society.

Linking Employee & Leadership Competency, Performance and Rewards Using the Strategic Management Assessment Review Tool (SMART) Michael Maciekowich, Astron Solutions, LLC Friday, October 17, 10:00 a.m.--11:15 a.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for strategic recertification credits. Organizations are facing increasing marketplace challenges everyday. Organizations can assess their readiness to respond to those challenges by assessing themselves against strategic criteria. Organizations that embrace the criteria for performance excellence and incorporate them into their operational practices can expect to achieve more than their competitors. In this session, you will get a better understanding of the impact of how focusing on performance excellence competencies and measures has on enhancing an organization’s success, review of key performance excellence competencies and how they can be applied to any organization as well as understand how the SMART process can become the basis for determining management training and development needs.

Michael Maciekowich is a National Director for Astron Solutions. His areas of expertise include the development, design, and implementation of executive, physician, and employee total cash compensation and performance management systems in all industries. His primary focus is the integration of compensation and human resource strategies with organization-specific missions, visions, values, and strategic operating plans. Michael has twenty-five years of consulting and industry compensation experience. Michael received a Bachelor’s degree in political science / philosophy and a Master’s degree in industrial relations from the Loyola University of Chicago.

Live Your Story: The 10 Keys to Employment Brand Alignment Patrick Hopkins, President, Imaginasium Friday, October 17, 10:00 a.m.--11:15 a.m. Audience Level-Basic Program approved for general recertification credits.

As an HR professional, your success relies on attracting and retaining high-performing employees who believe in and advance your company. That starts long before the first interview. The key is aligning your storytellers…from Chairman of the Board to switchboard…so your brand truly lives within. Then, you need to translate that as a successful contact experience at every touchpoint. You need to discover your authentic, compelling employment brand story – the narrative that makes it possible to truly connect with employees for the long term. Before your brand story can be written, you have to be fully aware of who you are and what your audience really wants from you – not just who you think you’re supposed to be. That’s the goal of Employment Brand Alignment. It’s a strategy that helps you go to market with an organization-wide understanding and belief in your unique relevancy, plus the tools to make it successful.

Patrick Hopkins is President of Imaginasium, a Green Bay-based full brand alignment firm which guides company leaders through the change process by aligning their brands with their vision, goals, internal teams and external markets through strategic business communications. Their process includes uncovering the client’s unique brand narrative -- the Story -- and aligning every team member charged with delivering on it at every customer touchpoint. They then build the tools -- the Form -- that help tell the Story in the marketplace. After graduating from Brookfield Central High School, he made a brief foray into his ill-advised dream of becoming a forest ranger before coming to his senses and earning a degree in communications from UW-Stevens Point. He’s now President of Imaginasium, a Green Bay-based full brand alignment firm. Clients include The Manitowoc Company, Manitowoc Crane, ANSUL division of Tyco International, Wisconsin Public Service, and Kohler Power Generation.

Maximizing Assessment Data Mike Bleadorn, Ph.D., Right Management Thursday, October 16, 1:00 p.m.--4:00 p.m. Executive Session Audience Level-Advanced Program approved for strategic recertification credits.

Many organizations today find value in using assessments to evaluate leadership talent and potential in both internal and external candidates for management roles. Too often, the full potential of the assessment is not realized because it is only used for selection purposes and the power of the data collected is not utilized for assimilation, developmental action plans, succession management systems, and strategic human resource management. This seminar will address how to strategically structure and utilize assessments to maximize the return on the assessment investment in regard to both the individual and the human resource systems.

Mike Bleadorn, Ph.D., has consulted with a wide range of companies, both public and private, on organizational development and talent management issues for the past nineteen years. He has worked across all levels of management during his career and has provided coaching and developmental planning services to this entire spectrum. He has maintained an active practice of executive coaching and is frequently asked to provide team oriented services or interventions for executive teams. He has counseled emerging high potential managers throughout their careers as they have progressed and has provided them with ongoing feedback and guidance.

Move Beyond Resume Rehash: Interview Questions that Cut to Competencies Robert Lapota, MRA - The Management Association Thursday, October 16, 3:15 p.m.--4:30 p.m. Audience Level-Basic Program approved for general recertification credits.

Anyone who says interviewing is quick and easy simply isn’t a good interviewer. Whether you are talking with job candidates or even current employees exploring new roles, interviewing is part art; part science. So aside from using a crystal ball, how can you really determine if you’ve got a match on your hands? Competency-based interview questions can provide you the insight you’re looking for. Building the interview around competencies critical to the success of your business goals, as well as the role in question, can help your managers and interviewers key in on essential characteristics and skills, and identify if your candidate is the right candidate.

Rob Lapota holds the position of Senior Human Resource Manager, Human Resource Information & Solutions for MRA. He brings over 22 years of experience in all facets of human resource management. Rob spearheads the development and presentation of human resource training programs. He has trained thousands of employees and continually develops new programs to respond to the changing needs of employers. Rob holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Industrial Relations and a Master’s degree in Industrial and Labor Relations from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. His training also includes participation in the HR Executive Management Program, University of Michigan, and the Certified Trainer Program through Achieve Global.

The New FMLA Leaves and Rules: Are You Ready? Jeffrey Jones, Ruder Ware, L.L.S.C. Thursday, October 16, 1:00 p.m.--2:15 p.m. Friday, October 17, 10:30 a.m.—11:15 a.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

The federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) was recently amended to add two new qualified events that extend FMLA leaves to employees caring for injured service members and for family members who have a relative called to duty. The Department of Labor has issued proposed regulations, which may soon become law, addressing the new leaves. The regulations also address and redefine medical certification and recertification requirements, permissible contacts with an employee’s doctor, employer and employee notice requirements, non- consecutive periods of leave, HIPAA requirements, the Ragsdale decision and penalties, and the impact of ‘light duty’ assignments on FMLA leave. The presentation will review these changes and their impact on Wisconsin employers.

Jeff Jones has been a partner with the law firm of Ruder Ware, L.L.S.C. since 1990. Jeff focuses his law practice on representing numerous private and public employers with regard to employment matters. He has represented numerous employers with regard to such claims before the state and federal agencies and courts. He advises employers on FMLA matters on a daily basis. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the Labor and Employment Section of the State Bar of Wisconsin and a member of the Litigation Committee of the American Bar Association. Ouch! Resolving Conflict at Work Mary Jane Saras, LCSW, Creative Energy Options, Inc. Thursday, October 16, 10:30 a.m.--11:45 a.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

Conflict in the workplace is too often “swept under the rug” -- eventually turning a walk through the office into an obstacle course of defensiveness, threats, and disappointment. Workplace conflict will never go away, but leaders who learn to face it directly and skillfully can transform conflict into trust, creativity, and productivity. This humorous and interactive presentation examines how people handle confrontations, the patterned responses that cause us to flee or fight, and how to develop healthy behavior patterns that successfully move conflict toward resolution.

Mary Jane Saras, LCSW, is Vice President, Leadership Development, for Creative Energy Options (CEO), Inc., a dynamic, global consulting firm specializing in leadership development, coaching, team building, and consultation. She is a highly experienced executive coach and an expert program facilitator, presenting professional development programs on leadership, team building, conflict resolution, strategic planning, communication skills, and workplace relationships. As an educator and social worker, Mary Jane Saras brings unique skills to the world of work and her analysis and input have set many companies on the path to long-term cultural change and significant performance improvement. She holds a B.A. in Secondary Education from Clemson University and a Master of Social Work degree from Marywood University. Mary Jane Saras is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania and is a member of the National Association of Social Workers and the American Society for Training and Development.

Recertification - It's Easier Than You Think Karen Brzezinski, SPHR, Gannett Wisconsin Media Friday, October 17, 6:30 a.m. --7:30 a.m. Audience Level-Basic Please note this session is for personal development and does not count for recertification credit as the content is not tied to the HR Certification Institute’s body of knowledge.

"I passed the test - now you want me to do what?" This session will explain all the recertification options and show how many of your everyday activities can qualify for recertification credit - including strategic management credit!

Karen Brzezinski is the Regional HR Director for Gannett Central Wisconsin Media and an adjunct instructor in HR for Northcentral Technical College. Volunteer positions include: WISHRM State Certification Director from 2004 - 2007, past board member and president of the Central Wisconsin SHRM Chapter, HRCI study group facilitator for several years. Karen holds a B.S. in HR Management from Upper Iowa University.

The Role of Accessible Technology in the Hiring Process Janet Peters, Great Lakes ADA Center Friday, October 17, 6:30 a.m.--7:30 a.m. Audience Level-Basic Program approved for strategic recertification credits.

Online technology has made significant inroads into human resource processes over the past several years, including recruitment, benefits information dissemination, and training. The accessibility of the technology used in these processes is much less well documented. This session will discuss employment barriers if technology systems are not designed and implemented in an accessible manner and the impact on disability non- discrimination in employer practice.

Janet Peters is currently the Project Coordinator on Accessible Technology with Great Lakes ADA Center. She has extensive background and knowledge in the area of assistive technology and accessibility issues with information technology and specializes in website content accessibility and universal design concepts. Prior to working with the Great Lakes Center, she was the director of a family center for assistive technology and has over 15 years of experience with technology for people with disabilities. She has her certification in assistive technology from California State University – Northridge and an academic background in computer science and organizational communication.

Sharpen Your Company’s SAW (Safety and Wellness) Program Matt Bucher and Chad Tisonik, HNI Risk Services Thursday, Oct 16, 10:30 a.m. --11:45 a.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

How would you rate your company’s ability to change employee behavior not only at work, but at home as well? The most common reason corporate safety and wellness programs fail or struggle is due to the inability to change employee behaviors. This workshop will provide you with insights and strategies taken from case studies on companies that have learned why employees resist change and how they found the right method to affect behavior and culture. You must work on the culture of your organization before establishing processes and systems.

In his role as a Risk Advisor, Matt Bucher works with organizations to establish an employee culture that embraces the cost of risk. His background and strong understanding of communication helps organizations better connect to its employees to improve health, safety, quality, productivity, and customer service. Matt is a frequent contributing writer in business and industry publications and regular seminar speaker for HNI and risk management groups. He received his Bachelors of Arts from Kansas State University in 1999.

Following graduation from the University of Wisconsin with a Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Safety and Health, Chad Tisonik has had 20 years experience in safety, health, and risk control experience. Prior to his work with HNI, Chad worked as a risk consultant for a global insurance broker and as an account specialist for a national multi-line insurance carrier. Chad is certified in Comprehensive Practice by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals and has attained his Certified Human Factors Consultant Designation (St. Paul Institute) in Ergonomics. Additionally, Chad is a Certified Hazard Control Manager – Master Level and has authored many safety related articles. Chad is a much sought-after public speaker given his many areas of expertise.

Shredding the Traditional Review Process: Put Your Team Members in Charge of Their Own Careers Kristine Hackbarth-Horn, SPHR, CCP, Goodwill Industries of NCW Diane Ninneman, Goodwill Industries of NCW Thursday, October 16, 10:30 a.m. --11:45 a.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

So, is there a different approach to the traditional performance review process that truly grows people? We think so. At Goodwill Industries NCW, we have made a commitment to support 12 Core Values - the first of which is to “Put People First.” We also value “Providing Opportunities for the Growth & Development of People.” With values like this, why wouldn’t you put people in full control of their future growth and development? We have created a system that allows all of our team members to take control of their own growth and development while they are with us. The team member is in charge! Join this session to understand why moving away from a pay for performance system and moving to growth and development plans has made all the difference in our people and our culture.

Kristine Hackbarth-Horn has over eighteen years of HR management and leadership experience. In her current role of Chief Operating Officer of People, she is responsible for working with over 1,400 team members, program participants, and volunteers in the organization to insure fulfillment of Goodwill NCW’s number one core value of “Putting People First.” In the last couple of years, she has been an active member of Fox Valley Society of Human Resources Manager (SHRM) board, serving in President Elect, President, and the Past President positions. In addition, she has been a member of the State of Wisconsin SHRM Council, serving twice as the co-chair for the WI State SHRM State Conference, and 3 years as Wisconsin State Council Conference Liaison Director. She currently is serving as the Leadership Director and Director Elect for the Wisconsin State Council. Kristine also has earned her Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) Certification and her Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) designation from the World at Work.

Diane Ninneman came to Goodwill Industries with 17 years of experience in the field of training and development. In her current role as Growth & Development Specialist, her responsibilities include Caring Leader trainings, career pathing, tracking of outside seminar and tuition reimbursement, and RightPath.

Solving the Puzzle: Bringing Visibility to Accountability Seth Davies, Competitive Solutions, Inc. Friday, October 17, 11:30 a.m.--12:45 p.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

To sustain a culture of accountability, an organization must create, document, and audit business systems that support an accountability mindset. Unfortunately, many organizations fail to view accountability as a key business process. Failure to design and deploy sustained processes often results in an organization continuing to operate in a "blame" mode that is perceived by the workforce as a lack of true commitment to the culture of accountability. This presentation is dedicated to visible and auditable accountability systems essential to sustain business acumen and urgency. By utilizing action registers to build trust, elevate performance expectations and ensure outcome driven meetings, this session will prepare the participant to appreciate the organizational payback from using accountability systems to create consistency and focus.

Seth Davies has over 18 years experience in the consulting and training arena. At Competitive Solutions, Inc., he is a consultant delivering business solutions to organizations. He is also a member of CSI's Readiness Assessment Team analyzing the business processes of companies. As a member of the Readiness Assessment Team, he helps organizations realize strengths as well as areas of development within their organization. He has been involved in the formation, implementation, and development of business-focused process with many other CSI customers. Prior to joining CSI, he was a Performance Consultant with a large national training and consulting organization working in the Atlanta office. Strategic Compensation Review - Does Your Compensation Program Meet the Needs of Your Organization? Stephanie Kessler, PHR, RSM McGladrey, Inc. Rena Somersan, RSM McGladrey, Inc. Thursday, October 16, 3:15 p.m.--4:30 p.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

In this session, attendees will learn the various components that are essential for any compensation program to be effective and what steps we, as HR professionals, can take to ensure the overall business strategies are being reinforced by the compensation program we design and maintain. This session will cause you to think about how your compensation programs are set up and what areas, if any, may need to be reviewed and potentially updated. Throughout the presentation, we will be sharing experiences that we’ve had with our many local Wisconsin clients as well as from the rest of the United States and around the world. Various topic areas may include defining the appropriate compensation strategy and philosophy, reviewing your organization’s labor pool, performing a strategic review of your compensation program, understanding methodology surrounding market pricing and applying the data, and looking at best practices in compensation program management.

Stephanie Kessler is a Manager with the Strategy and Human Capital practice at RSM McGladrey and the leader of the compensation team in the Milwaukee office. In her more than seven years of consulting experience, Stephanie has worked with Healthcare, Manufacturing, Higher Education, Banking, and Non-Profit organizations. The primary focus of these services has been to assist in valuing work, designing compensation programs, and projecting the human resource investment required to implement programs. Stephanie graduated from Concordia University in Mequon, Wisconsin with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and then went back to receive her Masters in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resource Management. She holds certification as a Professional of Human Resources (PHR). Stephanie is currently an adjunct faculty member for Concordia University, teaching courses in the Human Resources curriculum.

Rena Somersan is a Director with the Strategy and Human Capital Practice at RSM McGladrey. She has over sixteen years of consulting and industry experience assisting clients in executing their strategic human resources and compensation initiatives. Rena has experience in the manufacturing, pharmaceutical, and logistics industries. Her focus has been in the areas of workforce compensation, performance management initiatives, leadership development, talent motivation, and retention.

The Successful Pillars of Safety Ted Hayes, Wausau Insurance Companies Thursday, October 16, 1:00 p.m.--2:15 p.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

This presentation will introduce the 14 Successful Pillars of Safety – a step-by-step process to implement a successful safety program. Participants will learn how to set company safety goals, develop supervisor involvement/accountability safety standards, reenergize your safety committee efforts, refocus your safety training program, and turn accident investigations into positive, proactive safety training tools. Participants will also learn how to refocus their safety survey efforts to those areas that present the greatest frequency/severity accident exposure. The use of the safety survey risk assessment tool will assist your safety committee in categorically ranking the most important accident and injury exposures that your company may face.

Ted Hayes is employed at Wausau Insurance Companies as a Loss Prevention Technical Consultant. With a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Safety from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Ted has consulted in the safety field for the past 22 years. Working with Wausau's larger premium customers, Ted has developed a behavioral safety program titled 'The Successful Pillars of Safety' that assists Wausau's customers in developing a pro-active safety program focused specifically on addressing employees potential unsafe acts and behaviors. In addition to the many manufacturing clients he has consulted for, Ted has also authored his first book.

Succession Planning & HR Support Processes Tom Wiltzius, Right Management Lisa Raab, Right Management Patty Van Ryzin, Bassett Mechanical Thursday, October 16, 10:30 a.m. --11:45 a.m. Executive Session Audience Level-Advance Program approved for strategic recertification credits.

Succession management and leadership development operate in tandem in order to contribute to a sustainable growth strategy. Patty Van Ryzin, Vice President-Human Resources at Bassett Mechanical Contractors, a privately held company and Dr. Tom Wiltzius, Senior Vice President and Senior Consultant with Right Management will review the history of succession management and leadership development at Bassett over a 12 year period. They will discuss the challenges, initiatives, barriers, and successes seen as succession milestones. Dr. Wiltzius will also share some of the insights and models and tools used at other Wisconsin firms to enhance fruitful outcomes in blending succession management and leadership development initiatives.

Tom Wiltzius has been guiding individuals and organizations to higher levels of performance for over 25 years. He has proven to be a valuable resource on an array of issues including leadership development, executive coaching, succession management, career transition management, business development, restructuring, strategy integration, communications, and public relations. Tom is also experienced in leadership assessment, crisis intervention, and employee engagement. Since founding his own consulting practice in 1979 and his consulting company in 1984, Tom has built a strong reputation for integrity and service quality. Tom holds a B.S. in Industrial Engineering and Technology and an M.S. in Counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. He holds a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from CCU and completed his residency at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Lisa Raab specializes in the areas of leadership development, change management and career transition. She has 12 years of experience and proven skills working with individuals and groups at all levels in a variety of industries. She is a frequent presenter at professional association and university events. Lisa’s key areas of leadership development and coaching expertise include professional image and presentation skills, understanding communication styles, conflict management, creating high-performing teams, delegation, time management, goal setting, interviewing and selection, and performance coaching. In her role as career consultant, Lisa has helped upwards of 1,000 individuals find satisfying careers by guiding them through a self-assessment process followed by teaching critical job search skills via one-on-one coaching as well as interactive, action-oriented group sessions. Lisa holds a B.S. degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, and an M.S. Ed. in Counseling and Counselor Education from Indiana University. She is an active member in the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) as well as The New North.

Patty Van Ryzin joined Bassett in 1990 and took on the role of Human Resource Generalist in 1992. She was nominated to the Bassett Mechanical Board of Directors, and promoted to Vice President-Human Resources in 2004. Patty is a national member of SHRM. She has successfully led the family owned business through a third generation transition, and facilitated succession planning for the entire management team through this change. Patty is involved in several non-profit organizations in the community. She joined Girl Scouts of the Fox River Area board of directors in May 2002 as a Member-at-Large, progressed to 1st Vice President, and President and served on a variety of committees for this Board. Patty is also the past Chairperson of the Governing Board for the Tesla Charter Engineering School, which provides a curriculum combining science, math, and technology and prepares students for continuing education and careers in engineering.

Succession Planning: It's Not as Hard as it Sounds. Paul Meese, SingleSource Services Friday, October 17, 6:30 a.m. --7:30 a.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

Succession Planning. You have heard about it, but it sounds like it is either too challenging and too time consuming, or operations already has their mind made up. In this session, you will learn how to break down job descriptions so you can identify commonalities and competencies and then you will learn how to understand what to do with the competencies after you have them. You will see, step by step, how to reveal the succession plan to the management team. You'll receive suggested forms and hear real life success stories.

Paul M. Meese has worked as a professional in human resources and operations for over 20 years, including leadership positions with national restaurant chains, retailers, hotels, banking, and not-for-profit organizations. Adept at problem solving, Paul's expertise and intuitiveness enhance his ability to identify organizational solutions and create the plans to implement them. In his role as Vice President, Client Services for SingleSource, Paul continually demonstrates how the company's services create efficiencies that make HR personnel more valuable within the organization while aligning the HR function with corporate objectives. Paul's educational background includes an M.A. from Michigan State University and a B.A. from Lakeland College in Sheboygan, Wisconsin.

Tales from the Frontline of Market Pricing Christopher Kelley, HR Analytic Services, LLC Friday, October 17, 11:30 a.m.--12:45 p.m. Audience Level-Basic Program approved for general recertification credits.

Recent surveys have indicated that over 80% of US organizations now use market pricing as the primary method for determining job worth. This presentation will engage audience members in some of the key learning (and common pitfalls) found in how companies have used market pricing from across the industry. Participants will walk away with tips to either sharpen their current approach to market pricing, or arm them with the information they need to determine if this “popular” trend is right for their organizations. The presentation will highlight some of the current ‘best practices’ as well as point out some of the pitfalls to avoid as learned the hard way by others who have gone before you.

Chris Kelley started his consulting practice, HR Analytic Services, LLC, in 2004 after working for over 15 years in a variety of human resources and compensation management positions with both large and mid-sized firms. Along the way, Chris developed an expertise around data analytics and in particular salary surveys and market pricing. Chris’s firm recently launched the HRAnlytx® web application which has enabled him to gain an even broader perspective on the happenings in the world of market data analysis being conducted by a variety of companies across the country.

Top 10 COBRA and FMLA Mistakes Employers Make Renee Kuhs, HNI Risk Services, Inc. Friday, October 17, 11:30 a.m.--12:45 p.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

Failure to comply with laws such as FMLA and COBRA exposes your organization to significant risks. Obviously, the costs of litigation, fines, and lost productivity will have a negative impact on your bottom line. HNI Risk Services’ Compliance Attorney will share the common mistakes that she has seen employers make during her 12 years of practice. This workshop will provide you with an opportunity to uncover gaps in your current procedures and avoid common mistakes that many employers make when administering these laws.

Renee Kuhs has 12 years experience practicing employee benefits law. She specializes in COBRA, HIPAA, MSP, Section 125, HSA’s, and FMLA. During her years of practice, she has worked closely with insurance brokers and employers to help them comply with and understand the law. Renee has a unique ability to take complex legislation and present it in an easy to understand manner. Renee graduated from Valparaiso University School of Law in the top 25% of her class.

Wage and Hour Hash: State and Federal Compliance Made Easy James Chiolino, Quarles & Brady LLP Thursday, October 16, 6:45 a.m.--7:45 a.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

There are differences between Wisconsin wage and hour laws and Federal wage and hour laws that can cause confusion. Where they conflict -- and they conflict in many areas -- which law must be followed? This session will help human resource professionals make sense of the two sets of laws. The presentation will consider the differences between the Fair Labor Standards Act and Wisconsin overtime and minimum wage laws; the Federal Family and Medical Leave Act and the Wisconsin Family and Medical Leave Act; and Federal and State child labor provisions, among other issues. Participants will be given practical tips regarding compliance with both sets of laws. James J. Chiolino is an Associate Attorney specializing in Labor and Employment Law with Quarles & Brady LLP, in Madison. Prior to joining the firm, he worked for the Wisconsin Equal Rights Division for fourteen years, serving as chief of both its labor standards and civil rights sections. He graduated cum laude from the University of Wisconsin Law School, where he received the ABA/BNA Award for excellence in the study of labor and employment law. He is a member of the American Bar Association and the State Bar of Wisconsin.

Worker’s Compensation Claims: A Piece of the Risk Management Puzzle Rita Knaack and Jeffrey Stevenson, Wausau Signature Agency Friday, October 17, 11:30 a.m.--12:45 p.m. Audience Level-Intermediate Program approved for general recertification credits.

Worker’s compensation claims handling is often a task that falls under the human resource blanket in companies. It is an area that is often too confusing or complex for the HR specialist to really dig into. This presentation will give the basics of worker’s compensation law relating to return to work, medical handling of the claims, and settlements in the State of Wisconsin. Additionally, we want to provide tips on how to work with your insurer to facilitate aggressive claims handling that is beneficial for both the employee and employer. Lastly, we want to offer some strategic ideas of how to integrate employment practices, specifically relating to worker’s compensation, as a way to support a risk management culture and successful claims handling.

Rita Knaack began working for Wausau Insurance as a Worker’s Compensation Claims Case Handler in June of 2002. Rita stepped in to lead the Milwaukee sales force of Wausau Signature Agency in November of 2006 after a successful stint in sales. She currently holds her Charter Property Casualty Underwriter, Associate in Risk Management, and Certified Insurance Specialist designations.

Jeffrey Stevenson has been working in his current sales role for Wausau Signature Agency since August of 2006. Prior to that, he worked for the Liberty Mutual Group as a Worker’s Compensation Claims Case Manager starting in 2001, working with Liberty Mutual’s National Accounts segment in Philadelphia. He moved to Wisconsin in 2005 where he began working on Wausau Insurance’s High Exposure Medical Claims Team, specializing in large complex losses. He has worked with a large variety of industries including but not limited to staffing accounts, contractors, hospitality, and manufacturing.

SHRM Student Chapter Session

A Career in HR: More than Paper Pushing and Party Planning Nancy Ledvina, The H.S. Group, Inc. Thursday, October 16, 3:15 p.m.--4:30 p.m. Audience Level-Students

Love working with people? Then you’re well on your way to a career in HR, right? Wrong! While the desire to work with others is a definite plus, you will need much more than people skills to handle the myriad of issues you’ll be facing as an HR professional. By entering the interesting, challenging and sometimes bizarre world of HR, you will have the opportunity to impact an organization through its employees. In the course of this presentation, you will learn more about the future of HR and the variety of directions this career can take you. We’ll discuss the strategic value of HR, its challenges and benefits and how you can prepare for this field through education and the development of personal traits and business skills. We’ll also participate in an exercise to better understand your personality type, giving you greater insight into how you can successfully work with others.

Nancy Ledvina is the Director of Human Resource Consulting for The H.S. Group, Inc., a Green Bay HR Consulting firm. Nancy earned her B.B.A. with majors in Human Resources and Marketing from the University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh. Nancy provides expertise in a variety of human resource areas including compensation and benefits, training, compliance assistance, policy development, employee and compensation/benefit surveys, as well as customized services. She has developed programs and trained all levels of employees on interviewing techniques, harassment prevention and resolution, supervisory skills, performance management, human resource issues, legal compliance and job search skills. Nancy also works with clients as an HR Partner, providing ongoing consultation to remedy HR and employee related issues. In addition, Nancy is very involved in the community.

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