July was a vibrant and enriching month for our team, filled with professional development, legal insights, and meaningful community engagement. From California to Texas to the Gulf Coast, our team members attended a variety of events that not only expanded their knowledge but also deepened our connections with clients and local professionals.
Cathy attended the “Fix It with AI” session hosted by Austin SHRM at the AT&T Hotel and Conference Center. This event, part of the lead-up to Austin SHRM’s 75th Anniversary Conference, focused on how artificial intelligence is reshaping HR practices. The session encouraged attendees to bring their toughest HR challenges and explore how AI could offer practical solutions. Cathy found the discussion around AI-driven recruiting, performance management, and ethical considerations particularly valuable, and she returned with fresh ideas for integrating technology into our HR strategies.
Rebecca had a busy month in California, attending several impactful events. Rebecca participated in the “CA Wage and Hour – How to Stay Compliant” seminar hosted by SJ SHRM in Stockton. This session provided a comprehensive overview of California’s complex wage and hour laws, offering practical tips to avoid compliance pitfalls. Rebecca appreciated the real-world case studies and left with actionable strategies to strengthen our internal processes.
Earlier that week, Rebecca also attended a wellness-focused luncheon hosted by SHRM Tulare Kings titled “The HR Balancing Act.” This event emphasized the importance of self-care and resilience in the HR profession. The session offered tools for managing stress, maintaining energy, and achieving a healthier work-life balance—an especially timely topic for HR professionals navigating high-demand roles.
Later in July, Rebecca joined the Central California SHRM Monthly Lunch Meeting in Fresno. The session, led by Susan Hatmaker of Hatmaker Law Group, covered mid-year legal updates relevant to California employers. Topics included new compliance mandates, evolving legal risks in hybrid work environments, and practical guidance for staying ahead of regulatory changes. Rebecca found the Q&A session particularly insightful and came away with several strategies to implement immediately.
Meanwhile, Kali was busy building community connections along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. She attended the Business After Hours event hosted by Triple Diamond Pawn & Jewelry and organized by the Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce. The event was a lively mix of networking, a delicious shrimp boil, and fun giveaways. Kali described it as a perfect opportunity to connect with local professionals and celebrate the spirit of small business.
In addition to the event, Kali spent time visiting clients in Ocean Springs and Gulfport. She emphasized the importance of face-to-face interactions, noting that strong relationships are built outside the inbox. Whether it was a quick check-in, dropping off goodies, or discussing staffing needs, Kali’s visits reinforced our commitment to personalized service and community engagement.
As we reflect on July, it’s clear that these events have not only enriched our team’s knowledge but also strengthened our relationships—with clients, peers, and the broader HR community. We’re excited to carry these insights forward and continue growing together.
