Meeting/Event Information

Tapping Into Untapped Talent: Half-Day HR Workshop 
This meeting is in-person only at the Eastern Shore Innovation Center in Cambridge, MD.   
SHRM Foundation Raffle (Scout bag & Swig gear, etc!):  $5/ticket 

Build Your Talent Pipeline with Maryland Workforce Programs
Want to explore how apprenticeships and other Maryland state programs can help you expand your talent pipeline? Curious about how free programs could benefit both your business and job seekers from underrepresented groups?

Join us for an interactive workshop featuring five experienced workforce professionals who will share practical insights and answer your questions. You’ll learn how to:

• Unlock the business advantages of apprenticeships and how to get started
• Debunk myths about hiring individuals with disabilities and uncover the real benefits
• Tap into internationally trained professionals to fill critical skill gaps
• Leverage incentives for hiring veterans and other special populations
• Walk away with actionable strategies, valuable connections, and new ways to strengthen your workforce while making a difference.

Registration and Breakfast: 8:00 a.m. / Presentation: 8:30 - Noon
SHRM Foundation Raffle:  $5/ticket 

Our Speakers

Alicia Dennis serves as the Apprenticeship Navigator with Maryland Labor, helping businesses and job seekers in Wicomico, Worcester, and Somerset Counties create and grow apprenticeship opportunities across a wide range of industries.

Jessie Ferrio brings over 15 years of workforce development expertise to her role as a Regional Business Services Specialist with Maryland DORS. She partners with employers to champion inclusive hiring and open doors for individuals with disabilities.  

Brian Carmean, SPHR, SHRM-CP is a U.S. Navy veteran with over 20 years of distinguished service.  In addition to his military career, Brian brings more than two decades of experience in civilian human resources, having worked across the healthcare, energy, and automotive industries. He now serves within the Maryland Department of Labor’s Jobs for Veterans State Grant (JVSG) program, continuing his commitment to supporting fellow veterans in their transition to civilian employment.

Joana Winningham is the New Americans Initiative Coordinator with the Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning, for the Maryland Department of Labor. She also co-leads Maryland’s Skilled Immigrant Task Force, which collaborates across organizations to advance workforce system accessibility and career opportunities for the internationally trained professionals.