LAP BY LAP:
Advancing Positive Workplaces
Spring 2025 CUE Conference
April 27-29, 2025
The Westin Charlotte • Charlotte, NC
Start your engines and join us at The Westin Charlotte in North Carolina starting Sunday, April 27, for expert panels and dynamic discussion groups covering positive employee relations, campaign case studies, and the latest labor law updates. CUE conferences are the ultimate gathering for labor and employee relations professionals—don’t miss this opportunity to connect with industry experts!
Conference Registration:
- CUE Members: $1345
- Non-Members: $1645
- Spouses/Partners: $195
Key Links:
Registration Includes:
- Welcome Reception
- General Sessions and Panels
- Breakout Sessions
- Networking Events
- Two Breakfasts
- Two Lunches
- First-Time Attendee Orientation
Why Attend a CUE Conference?
Curated Agenda
The Spring 2025 CUE Conference agenda features a carefully curated program designed to equip professionals with the latest insights, strategies, and best practices in employee relations, labor law, and workforce management. Attendees will engage in expert-led panels, interactive discussions, and networking opportunities that foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
Valuable Networking
Networking is a key component of a CUE conference, offering attendees the opportunity to connect, collaborate, and exchange insights with industry professionals. Whether you’re looking to build relationships, gain strategic advice, or explore new perspectives, our conference provides multiple networking opportunities designed to foster meaningful connections.
Engaging Activities
Beyond the insightful sessions and networking opportunities, the CUE conference in Charlotte offers a variety of engaging activities designed to help attendees unwind, connect, and experience the best of the city. From evening receptions to social outings, these events provide the perfect balance of relaxation and relationship-building in a lively atmosphere.
Agenda
All times Eastern.
All times, session topics and speakers are subject to change. Any changes will be posted as quickly as possible.
Updated: 2/17/2025
Sunday, April 27, 2025
- 12:00 PM - Registration Desk Opens
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2:30 PM - 3:15 PM - First-Timers Orientation: Maximize Your Conference Experience
New to the conference? Start your journey here! This interactive session is designed to help first-time attendees make the most of their experience. Learn how to navigate the conference, discover key sessions, and get insider tips to ensure you leave with valuable insights and connections. You'll also have the opportunity to meet fellow first-timers and begin building your professional network right from the start. Don’t miss this chance to kick off your conference with confidence!
- 3:15 PM - 3:30 PM - Break
- 3:30 PM - 5:05 PM - CUE Connections - 2 Sessions
Each of the CUE Connections sessions will be designed to facilitate discussion among attendees, enabling sharing of experiences, challenges, and best practices in each area.
- 3:30 PM - 4:15 PM - CUE Connections - Session 1
- 4:20 PM - 5:05 PM - CUE Connections - Session 2
Attendees can choose 2 of the 3 topics listed below.
- AI at Work: Friend, Foe, or Game-Changer in Employee & Labor Relations?
Unions are leveraging AI to move their agenda forward. How are organizations integrating AI into daily operations? Join this discussion to discuss how you have seen union using AI and explore real-world applications, best practices, and the evolving role of AI in getting your job done. - Always Ready: Keeping Rapid Response Teams Sharp & Engaged
A rapid response team is only as effective as its training and readiness. How do you keep your team engaged, prepared, and motivated? This session will focus on strategies for sustaining interest, ensuring agility, and keeping teams proactive in employee relations. - Bridging the Distance: Reconnecting On-Site, Hybrid & Remote Employees
Return-to-work initiatives present unique challenges in maintaining connection and engagement across different work models. How are organizations keeping employees—whether in-office, hybrid, or fully remote—engaged and aligned? Share experiences, challenges, and creative solutions in this discussion.
- 5:05 PM - 5:15 PM - Break
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5:15 PM - 6:15 PM - Ask the Experts: AI, Rapid Response, and Reconnecting Employees
All that discussion is bound to have left some questions unanswered. This interactive session brings together industry leaders to provide insights on the questions raised on leveraging AI in the workplace, maintaining high-performing rapid response teams, and strengthening connections among on-site, hybrid, and remote employees. Bring your toughest questions and gain expert perspectives on best practices and emerging trends.
- 6:15 PM - 7:15 PM - Grand Opening Reception & Networking
Monday, April 28, 2025
- 6:45 AM - Registration Desk Opens
- 6:45 AM - 8:00 AM - Breakfast
- 8:00 AM - 8:15 AM - Welcome and Opening Remarks
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8:15 AM - 9:15 AM - Navigating the Shifting Labor Landscape: Insights from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Glenn Spencer, U.S. Chamber of Commerce
With labor relations evolving rapidly, what challenges and opportunities do employers face today? Glenn Spencer, Senior Vice President of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, will provide an up-to-the-minute analysis of the U.S. labor relations landscape. From policy shifts to emerging union strategies, this session will offer critical insights on how employers can proactively respond and strengthen their employee relations approach.
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9:15 AM - 9:45 AM - Decision Dialogue
In these sessions, a challenging fact pattern will be presented for consideration. Breaking into small discussion groups, each group will collaborate to discuss and devise a strategic plan to address the situation, considering various aspects to be considered.
- 9:45 AM - 10:00 AM - Break
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10:00 – 11:00 AM - Preparing Employees for AI: Driving Engagement, Not Fear
Gerlind Wisskirchen, CMS
As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into the workplace, how employers introduce and communicate these changes can determine whether employees feel engaged or threatened. This session will explore strategies for preparing employees for AI adoption in a way that fosters trust, transparency, and excitement rather than uncertainty. Experts will discuss how to address concerns about job security, provide upskilling opportunities, and create a culture where AI is seen as a tool for empowerment rather than disruption. Attendees will gain actionable insights on how to guide employees through technological change while strengthening engagement and workplace confidence.
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11:00 AM – 12:00 PM - Turning Discontent into Dialogue: Effectively Engaging Disgruntled Employees
Shannon Charron, Verizon Wireless
Disengaged or dissatisfied employees can impact morale, productivity, and even spark organizing efforts. But how can leaders address employee concerns without infringing on protected concerted activity rights? This session will provide practical strategies for responding to unhappy employees in a way that fosters open communication, deescalates tensions, and builds trust—while staying compliant with labor laws. Learn how to navigate difficult conversations, recognize when concerns signal deeper organizational issues, and turn dissatisfaction into an opportunity for meaningful engagement.
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM - Lunch
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1:00 PM - 2:00 PM - The Leader-Shift Playbook: 4 Simple Changes to Score Big and Unleash Your Team’s Potential
Phil Wilson, Labor Relations Institute
Four critical mindset shifts are the key "blazes" on every leader's journey: believing in your impact, believing in yourself, believing in others, and believing in your relationships. This engaging presentation explains how leadership is not about ego or grand plans but about adopting a new mindset. Phil’s will outline his personal journey, starting with his visit to “Mount Stupid” and culminating in a transformed culture with his own team. This presentation will include practical tips from his experiences and the experiences of other successful leaders. Listeners also walk out with specific tools and practices to help apply these shifts in each leadership journey.
- 2:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Decision Dialogue
- 2:30 PM - 2:45 PM - Break
- 2:45 PM - 3:45 PM - Leadership Training Panel: Where is Engagement Hiding & How to Train Leaders to Find ItQuyrus Epps, Ellwood Inc. and Erin Watson, lululemonEngagement isn’t always missing—it’s often hidden in unexpected places. How can leaders identify and tap into overlooked sources of motivation, innovation, and commitment within their teams? This panel discussion will explore how to train leaders to recognize and nurture engagement where it already exists, while also expanding it across the workforce. Experts will share strategies for uncovering hidden pools of engagement, leveraging them to drive stronger workplace connections, and equipping leaders with the skills to foster a culture of sustained involvement and enthusiasm.
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3:45 PM - 4:45 PM - The Changing Workplace: Adapting Employer Strategies & Communication in the Trump Administration Era
Nick Kalm, Reputation Partners
With labor policies evolving under the Trump Administration, employers must not only navigate new legal requirements but also adjust their communication strategies to align with the changing environment. This session will break down key legal changes, their impact on workplace policies, and how organizations can remain compliant while maintaining strong employee relations. In addition to legal insights, the session will outline how shifts in the political and regulatory landscape should inform employer messaging—ensuring communication is clear, compliant, and responsive to the current labor climate.
- 4:45 PM- 5:00 PM - Announcements
- 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM - Evening/Networking Reception - NASCAR Hall of Fame
Tuesday, April 29, 2025
- 6:45 AM - Registration Desk Opens
- 6:45 AM - 8:00 AM - Breakfast
- 8:00 AM - 8:15 AM - Welcome and Opening Remarks
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8:15 AM - 9:15 AM - Case Study: Lessons from a Union Election – What Worked & What’s Next
Every union election provides valuable insights—both in what worked well and what could be improved. This case study takes a deep dive into a real-world election, analyzing the strategies the employer implemented, the challenges encountered, and the key takeaways for future preparedness. Learn from firsthand experiences about effective communication, employee engagement, and areas where adjustments could strengthen future efforts. This session offers a unique opportunity to gain practical lessons from the field and refine labor relations strategies moving forward.
- 9:15 AM - 9:45 AM - Decision Dialogue
- 9:45 AM - 10:00 AM - Break
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10:00 AM - 11:00 AM - Legal Update: Navigating Recent NLRB Changes & Employer Strategies for Response
The legal landscape of labor relations is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of the latest National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) decisions is critical for employers. This session will provide an in-depth look at recent legal changes, what they mean in practice, and how organizations can adapt their policies and strategies accordingly. In addition to expert legal analysis, a seasoned practitioner will share real-world insights on how employers can proactively respond, maintain compliance, and strengthen employee relations in light of these developments.
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11:00 AM - 12:00 PM - Navigating Equity and Inclusion in Complex Environments: Lessons from the Transportation Industry
Stephanie Deiger, SEPTA; Robyn Pollack, Loutel; Fiona Jamison, People Results
As legal landscapes shift, organizations must rethink how they approach equity and inclusion while maintaining engagement and compliance. This case study examines how a transportation organization—operating across unionized and non-unionized environments—has adapted its strategies in response to new challenges. Through real-world insights, this session will explore what has worked, what has evolved, and how leadership is revamping inclusion efforts to align with both workforce needs and emerging legal restrictions. Attendees will gain practical takeaways on maintaining inclusive workplace practices, securing employee buy-in, and ensuring equity initiatives remain impactful and legally sound in today’s complex environment.
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12:00 PM - 1:00 PM - Lunch
CUE Programming Committee Lunch
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1:00 PM - 2:00 PM - Building Crisis Response Processes: Ensuring Employee Safety & Support
Linda Stiller, Food Lion
In times of crisis—whether a natural disaster, workplace violence, or the unexpected loss of a colleague—employees look to their employers for leadership, stability, and care. This session will focus on how organizations can build structured crisis response processes that prioritize employee safety, well-being, and communication. From developing clear protocols to ensuring leadership is prepared to respond with empathy and efficiency, experts will share best practices for creating a proactive, scalable approach to crisis management. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to enhance preparedness, strengthen employee trust, and integrate crisis response into broader engagement and safety initiatives.
- 2:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Decision Dialogue
- 2:30 PM - 2:45 PM - Break
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2:45 PM - 3:45 PM - Building a Culture of Belonging: Old Dominion’s Employee-First Approach
Tom Lillywhite, Old Dominion
What makes a workplace feel like home—where employees feel valued, heard, and supported without seeking outside representation? This case study from Old Dominion explores how the company has built a culture of trust, engagement, and open communication that naturally fosters employee commitment. By prioritizing direct relationships, responsive leadership, and meaningful workplace connections, Old Dominion has created an environment where employees feel secure and invested in their future. Attendees will gain insights into the strategies that have strengthened workforce loyalty and learn how a culture of belonging can be a powerful foundation for long-term organizational success.
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3:45 PM - 4:45 PM - The High Cost of Disengagement: The Financial Impact of Lost Engagement & Organizing Efforts
William Hamrick, Publix
Disengagement isn’t just a cultural challenge—it’s a financial risk. When employees check out, organizations face increased turnover, lost productivity, and the costly reality of responding to union organizing efforts. This session will break down the true cost of lost engagement, including legal fees, compliance requirements, management time, and the operational disruptions that come with union campaigns. Gain a clear understanding of how disengagement translates into dollars and cents, and explore proactive strategies to protect your organization’s resources by keeping employees engaged, connected, and invested.
- 4:45 PM- 5:00 PM - Conference Closing Notes and Remarks
- 5:00 PM - 6:15 PM - Closing Reception & Networking
Wednesday, April 30, 2025
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8:00 AM - 12:00 PM - The Leader-Shift: Becoming an Approachable Leader (Additional cost)
Phil Wilson, Labor Relations Institute, Inc.
Conference Speakers
Top labor and employee relations professionals, attorneys, and experts coming together for two days to share updates and insights.
First last
Job Title
Name of Organization
First last
Job Title
Name of Organization
First last
Job Title
Name of Organization
Shannon Charron
Labor Relations Principal
Verizon Wireless
Stephanie Deiger
Chief Human Resources Officer
Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)
Quyrus Epps
Director of Team Member Relations
ELLWOOD Group, Inc.
William Hamrick
Director Labor Relations
Publix Super Markets Inc
Dr. Fiona Jamison
VP, Research & People Analytics
People Results
Nick Kalm
Tom Lillywhite
Sr. Regional Human Resource and Development Manager
Old Dominion
Robyn Pollack
Workplace Culture Strategist & Co-Founder
Loutel
Glenn Spencer
Senior Vice President, Employment Policy Division
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Linda Stiller
Director Associate Relations
Food Lion LLC
erin Watson
Senior Manager of Organization
Health and Engagement
lululemon
Phil Wilson
President & General Counsel
Labor Relations Institute & Approachable Leadership
Gerlind Wisskirchen
Partner
CMS
Gerlind Wisskirchen
Partner
CMS
Gerlind Wisskirchen
Partner
CMS
The Westin Charlotte
The Spring 2025 CUE Conference will be held at The Westin Charlotte.
- CUE advises you to plan your arrival for the morning of Sunday, April 27th to enjoy all the conference has to offer.
- Ensure you get the best room rate for your CUE conference stay by booking with The Westin Charlotte as soon as possible.
Charlotte Highlights
Charlotte, North Carolina offers a vibrant mix of Southern charm and modern attractions.
Visitors can explore the NASCAR Hall of Fame, enjoy the lively Uptown district with its dining and entertainment options, or unwind in the city’s beautiful parks.
With its rich arts scene, outdoor activities, and exciting sports events, Charlotte has something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination.
Getting to & around Charlotte
- Airport - It's best to fly into Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT).
- Transportation - Be sure to download Uber, Lyft or another ridesharing app. Please note that drivers are in high demand, so plan for possible wait times or schedule your ride in advance.
- Conference Hotel - The Westin Charlotte, 601 South College Street, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA, 28202 Call: +1-704-375-2600
Post-Conference Workshop
Presented by
Phil Wilson
The Leader-Shift: Becoming an Approachable Leader
- Wednesday, April 30, 2025
- 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- $200 for members | $250 for non-members
Remember to add the post-conference workshop when registering for the conference! Or email cue@cueinc.com to add the workshop if you've already registered.
Experience a brand-new Approachable Leadership Workshop presented by Phil Wilson, Labor Relations Institute. This live learning experience helps leaders explore the behaviors and skills that set approachable leaders apart.
- The workshop covers the importance of approachability in leadership, the role of power distance in work relationships, and how to reduce power distance.
- Leaders will learn to apply the three components of the Approachability Model: openness, understanding, and support.
- Participants will also practice and coach each other on behaviors that promote approachability, while having some fun practicing those that do not.
Leaders will walk out prepared to produce better business results and enjoy a higher quality of life by being more approachable.
FAQs
Below are a few frequently asked questions gathered from first-time CUE conference attendees. If you have any other questions about CUE conferences, please email director@cueinc.com or call 1-866-409-4283.
Click the question to see the answer.
Every year, CUE Inc. conducts two national conferences, one in the Spring and the other in the Fall. These events attract human resources professionals, labor and employee relations professionals, labor lawyers, and consultants from North America and across the globe. Our members and attendees represent virtually every industry, and companies ranging from small businesses to large Fortune 100 employers.
While attending our conferences, attendees take part in sessions offering a cutting-edge focus on pro-active human resources practices, and the latest developments in labor and employee relations. CUE conferences offer unparalleled networking opportunities with hundreds of other labor relations, human resources and operations management professionals.
Recommended dress code for the conference is business casual, except for the Monday Night reception where casual dress is encouraged.
We strive to provide meals that allow our attendees to enjoy meals according to their preferences, including vegan, gluten-free and others. All dishes are marked with signage to make your meal selections simple. You can also notify a server at your table that you have special dining requirements, and they will be happy to assist you.
Many of our attendees have their spouse traveling with them. If a spouse wants to eat conference meals or attend networking events, they can do so by paying $195.00. Guest registration can be done when originally registering for the conference. If you would like to add a guest after you have registered, please contact CUE at 1-210-545-3499 x1 to register your spouse prior to the conference. You may also pay the spouse conference fee at the Registration desk.
You can register for the workshop at the same time you complete your main conference registration. If you would like to add that registration after you have completed your registration, please contact CUE at 1-210-545-3499 x1 to register prior to the conference. You may also register for the PCW at the Registration desk upon your arrival at the conference, assuming space is available.
Our goal at a CUE conference is to create events that provide educational and networking opportunities for you. The dress code is casual. The event runs from 6 to 9 PM but feel free to pop in and out as you explore our host city.
Registration Verification & Check-in Process
Registrants will be verified through a multi-step verification process to ensure that they are employed by a member company. Non-member and individual attendees will be reviewed and approved for attendance by the CUE Executive Committee.
CUE limits attendance to those employed by non-government companies. Additionally, consultants and attorneys may only attend by invitation. To request an invitation, please email Elizabeth at director@cueinc.com.
Check-In Process:
- Each individual must show a state ID before receiving a badge.
- Require registrants to sign pledge – acknowledging agreement not to record or broadcast content.
In the conference handbook and verbally, we ask all attendees to comply with the following rules:
- Disclose Disclaimer: Content is intended for the private commercial use of attendees only and may not be reproduced without the prior express permission of CUE. Photography, Broadcasting, Taping and Recording is strictly prohibited. Copies of handouts and/or PowerPoint slides, if available, are on the CUE website (password protected) and the CUE Mobile Conference App (password protected) for download.
- Attendee Badges: For the safety and security of all attendees, badges are required to be worn at all CUE activities and events. Cooperation is required and appreciated.
- Cell Phone Usage: As a courtesy to our speakers and other attendees, please place your cell phone in silent mode. The use of the CUE event app is encouraged.
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Learn more about CUE.
Assisting employers in establishing positive and forward-looking workplace practices for over 40 years.
About CUE
CUE is a non-profit, member-led community with the latest techniques for improving labor and employee relations.
CUE has over 200 member companies, both union and union-free, representing a cross-section of business and industry, from small firms to Fortune 500 companies.
We are dedicated to assisting companies that believe that their employees deserve a workplace that is built around flexibility, productivity, quality of work life, fairness, the opportunity to participate in decisions affecting one’s future and the opportunity to succeed.
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