As a new conference season kicks off, our team is hard at work planning the DirectEmployers 2014 Annual Meeting & Conference (DEAM14), taking place March 25-27 in the Washington, D.C. metro area. The timing for this year’s conference couldn’t be more perfect, as those within the federal contractor community are likely well acquainted with the March 24 implementation date for the revisions to VEVRAA and Section 503. The agenda will focus on all aspects of veteran and disability hiring, as well as a variety of important issues and best practices for recruitment and talent acquisition, social media, employment branding, and much more. In addition, our partners the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) will be hosting a pre-conference Advocacy event, stay tuned for more details.

Take a look at some of the exciting highlights that you can expect from DEAM14 and be sure to register to attend today as the conference is quickly approaching. Registration is free for DirectEmployers Members! Register now.

UnitedHealth Group speaking with job seekers at the 2013 Veterans Connect Career Fair.

Veterans Connect Career Fair
Prior to the start of the conference, on Tuesday, March 25 from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., we will be hosting a Veterans Connect Career Fair at the conference venue, the Hyatt Regency Crystal City. This event will give employers direct access to the talent within the strong military presence of the area and connect with veterans, transitioning servicemembers and their families who are currently in search of a career. As an added benefit to this military outreach opportunity, career fair registration comes with two complimentary registrations for DEAM14!

Our partner NASWA educating DEAM13 attendees.

Demo Hall
In appreciation of our valued underwriters who help to keep the conference free for our Membership, we will once again have a Demo Hall for our supporters to showcase their products and services in a no-pressure environment. Open during breaks and evening networking receptions, this space is the place to experience the latest innovations in HR technology and service – plus there will be plenty of freebies and food and drink! Want to get your organization a spot in the Demo Hall? There are still a few underwriter opportunities available!

Engaging Keynotes
Through our conference, we strive to provide attendees with not only learning and networking opportunities, but also inspiration. Keynote speakers are a great way to give the audience energy and a bit of an entertaining break from the typical educational sessions. One of this year’s exciting keynotes, employment law attorney John C. Fox, Esq. of Fox, Wang & Morgan PC, will take the stage to provide insight into the new regulations, his experience as a trial attorney and his former role as an insider at the OFCCP. Check out his column, the OFCCP Fox Report, exclusively for DirectEmployers. In addition, John Robinson, Managing Partner and CEO at Our Ability, will be giving the keynote address on day two. Born a congenital amputee, John’s inspirational story will show us what is possible and what it takes to overcome obstacles in life and business.

Impressive Agenda
We understand that our conference attendees are looking for useful and actionable information that they can take back to the office. That’s why we vet our speakers to ensure that we have the most engaging and relevant presentations, and this year we have some pretty impressive sessions on the agenda! Some highlights include a session on VEVRAA & Section 503 from Beth Ronnenburg of Berkshire Associates, a veteran hiring panel with participants from LifeTechnologies, Intel and EMC Corporation, a presentation on achieving DOL hiring targets by Howard Green from the National Organization on Disability, and an exciting product update from DirectEmployers Association.

Sounds impressive, right? Register for DEAM14 today and be sure to book your room at the conference venue while the discounted group rate is still available. Hurry, it ends on Monday, March 3! Need some help urging your superiors to approve your registration? Customize our convenient “justify your trip” letter to showcase the many benefits of attending.

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