Employment Law Update 

Kelly Hayden, JD
Chief Legal Counsel, HR Source 

Courtrooms across the country continue to shape the way employment law is applied, and staying ahead of the latest decisions is essential. In this engaging session, Kelly Hayden, Chief Legal Counsel at HR Source, returns with a timely look at recent court rulings that are shifting the legal landscape for employers. Through compelling real-world case studies, Kelly will unpack the facts, legal arguments, and final outcomes, highlighting what each decision means for your policies and practices. Expect practical takeaways, clear legal explanations, and a few surprises along the way as you test your own instincts against how the courts ruled.

Incident Investigations and Safety

Kyle Cochran, CSP
Chief Operating Officer, Vista Safety Consulting, LLC  

Timely and effective incident investigations are critical to preventing future accidents, and a  thorough investigation process protects both employees and the organization’s bottom line. Investigators should focus on finding the root cause - not on placing blame - by quickly securing the scene, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and thoroughly documenting all facts. Using case studies, this session will highlight how delays and incomplete reports increase claim costs and weaken safety outcomes. You’ll learn to dig beyond immediate causes to uncover systemic issues, to implement corrective actions, and to communicate outcomes effectively. A strengthened safety culture is both a safety and a financial advantage. 

From Click to Candidate: The Modern Hiring Path

Facilitator: Jackie Throop, SPHR, Director, Outsourced HR & Recruiting, HR Source
Panelists: Cathy Peterson, Mary Petersen, Teresa Surdyk, HR Partners, HR Source  

From writing job postings that actually work, to keeping candidates engaged, to navigating legal issues and pay transparency, this panel has seen it all. Join HR Source’s recruiters for a fast-paced, insight-packed session on staying compliant, competitive, and connected in today’s hiring landscape. This panel promises practical insights, real-world examples, and a few laughs along the way. Walk away with actionable tips to elevate your hiring game and build stronger candidate connections from the start.

DEI: The Evolving Legal Landscape

Sonal Shah, JD
Assistant Director, Employment Law Services, HR Source

DEI has been facing unprecedented challenges, driven by recent executive orders, court decisions, and shifting federal enforcement priorities. This session unpacks the latest developments shaping how employers can pursue diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives while managing legal risk. We’ll cover key changes in federal policy and enforcement, notable court and agency rulings, and provide practical guidance to design legally sound policies, strategies, and practices to align DEI goals with compliance obligations.