Curated Sessions

Opening Ceremonies

MCEEA’s Welcome to the 2024 Hire Aspirations Annual Conference

Keynote Speaker: Chris Czarnik

Revolutionizing Talent in the Modern Workforce

Chris has transformed hiring and development in the workforce. As a former military officer and seasoned HR manager, his journey began with a vision to redefine job search methodologies. This vision led to the creation of “The Human Search Engine,” a groundbreaking approach embraced by the US Congress as a national standard.

But the evolution didn’t stop there. Recognizing the substantial shifts in workforce dynamics and demographics, Chris redefined the talent acquisition process. This process reduces the turnover rate. Chris will help you retain and develop that talent, growing the next generation of leaders in your company. His book, Winning the War for Talent, isn’t just a publication; it’s a manifesto for change, guiding over 3,500 organizations nationwide.

Today, as organizations grapple with unprecedented challenges in hiring and retaining top talent, his role transcends into that of a coach. Chris is a strategist, an innovator, and a trusted advisor, reengineering the structure of talent management. Through customized, process-based solutions, he empowers CEO’s, leaders, and organizations to not just fill positions, but to cultivate work environments where talent thrives and business objectives are surpassed.

As a Subject Matter Expert and a top speaker for Vistage, the world’s largest CEO coaching network, the mission is clear: to equip organizations with the tools and insights to win their own wars for talent. In this era of constant change, traditional methods falter. Chris’s expertise doesn’t just fill gaps; it reinvents how organizations perceive and nurture their most valuable asset – their people.

Keynote: Bridging the Gap Between Industry and Education

This keynote session will feature a panel of four seasoned recruiters as they discuss the complexities of building meaningful relationships with colleges and universities while overcoming challenges in attracting and retaining top talent. This session will explore strategies for fostering strong partnerships, navigating institutional differences, and adapting to evolving trends in talent acquisition. Panelists will share real-world experiences, innovative approaches to engaging with students and faculty, and insights into retaining employees in an increasingly competitive job market. 

Troy Farley, Director of Career Services at GVSU, moderates:

Olivia Mulder graduated from the Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University in 2018. As a People Generalist at Twisthink, Olivia works with all things people, leadership development, training and culture. Twisthink, a Grand Rapids company, is a technology and design consulting company who helps to create custom solutions for clients that champion innovation. As a Generalist, Olivia loves that she works in a culture that pushes for new ideas and believes that you can truly lead from any seat in the organization. Olivia is grateful to support such a great team and work in a company where its most important asset is its people.

Joe Chrysler is a consulting software developer at Atomic Object with deep roots in rural Michigan. He works with local colleges and universities to find the next generation of tech talent and to empower them through Atomic’s Accelerator Program.

Laurie Johnson is a Talent Acquisition & Onboarding Coordinator at HealthWest in Muskegon, MI. She has sixteen years of experience in Human Resources, Workforce Development and Corporate Training in private and public sectors. Laurie is passionate about candidate job fit and dedicated to driving hiring results through equity in recruitment with a specialty in placement during employee-driven markets.

Brian Monette is the Recruiting Manager at HexArmor (Industrial Personal Protective Equipment Design and Manufacturing) in Grand Rapids. HexArmor has achieved rapid growth in his five-year tenure and shows no signs of slowing down. Over the course of his 10 year HR career, he’s worked in Talent Acquisition, Development, Employee Relations, and Compliance across several industries. Brian is passionate about cultivating engaging work environments and being a connector in the community.  He serves as a Goodwill Talent Services Committee Member, Professional Mentor for GVSU’s Seidman College of Business, and the Chamber of Commerce Leadership Grand Rapids Class of 2025. A Chicagoland Native, Marquette University Graduate, and Grand Rapids resident – Brian enjoys spending time with his wife/two boys, travel, Chicago sports, Marquette Basketball, staying active, and a good Old Fashioned.

Navigating AI in Hiring: Employer Practices, Student Strategies, and Legal Boundaries

Learn how Artificial Intelligence is changing the game in job search and hiring.

Featuring:

Matt C. Baxter – CEO of WedgeHR

 Vicki L Baker, MBA, MS, PhD, SHRM-CP – Associate Dean, Strategic Partnerships & Innovation, Department Chair, Economics & Management, Maynard Aris Endowed Professor in Economics and Management

Level Up Your Career with Stackable Credentials

Our economy is transitioning to “can you do the job” instead of “do you have the degree”. Learn how higher education and employers are addressing the new economy.

Talent Incoming - International Talent Pipeline in Michigan

More Information Coming Soon!

Higher Learning - The Cannabis Industry and Hiring in Michigan

Panelists:

  • Steven Kekelik – Owner – Indigrow:

    IndiGrow Craft Cultivation is a leader in Michigan’s cannabis industry, known for its sustainability, energy efficiency, and community focus. As a microbusiness, IndiGrow oversees the entire seed-to-sale process, ensuring top-quality craft cannabis.

    Located in a beautifully renovated historic building, IndiGrow integrates advanced energy-efficient systems, setting a benchmark for environmentally conscious operations. The facility also fosters community engagement through full cultivation tours and a showcase of local art.

    IndiGrow exemplifies innovation, sustainability, and community connection in the cannabis space.