Skilled workforce development, employee retention and loyalty, and reduced hiring costs and return on investment

Under the new administration in Washington, HR Professionals should be aware of: Changes in guidance and points of emphasis by the EEOC; Whether DEI is illegal for private employers; What reforms will affect federal contractors

WHD regulatory updates, common FLSA violations, and payroll audit independent determination (PAID) program review

Connecting to the Workforce System, Work-Based Learning Programs, Workforce Support

The WORKS Training Fund helps Louisiana employers offset the cost of training new hires and incumbent workers in high-demand occupations. Employers define their training needs, and reimbursement is provided after verified outcomes such as completion and retention. Training programs must align with current and emerging industry skill standards.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and HR professionals play a critical role in supporting employee well-being. Join us for an important conversation about addiction in the workplace, led by a counselor from Victory Addiction in Lafayette. This session will explore how HR leaders can recognize warning signs, respond appropriately, and help create a supportive environment that encourages recovery and reduces stigma.

This year's Diversity & Workforce Readiness meeting will focus on intentional leadership inviting HR professionals and people leaders to explore what it truly means to lead with purpose. Through a keynote address followed by a dynamic panel discussion, we will examine how understanding the whole person - individual context, lived experiences, and perspectives - strengthens our ability to build inclusive, high-performing workplaces. By embedding psychological safety into everyday leadership practices, organizations can foster greater engagement, trust, and innovation - driving both people success and business results. Greg Guidry will also provide a legal update on what to expect concerning DEI in 2026.