Meet the Speakers!

Abe Manthei, Director of Missional Development for Manthei Group, will discuss the staffing strategies of Manthei Wood Products through the use of international engineering visas and an innovative in-recovery program.

Ryan Schultz, President of Mr. Chain, will share how new staffing methods and an innovative scheduling model have attracted a larger workforce outside the traditional working age population, helping the business thrive and meet staffing needs during times of peak demand.

Rena Dam, Global Talent Corporate Outreach Michigan Program Manager with Global Detroit, will discuss how employers can connect with the tens of thousands of highly skilled international students in Michigan. She will share best practices and avenues for companies to explore hiring and retaining these talented professionals.

Dustin Stabile, Head of Production at Mackinaw Trail Winery and Brewery, will discuss how his organization handles annual staffing cycles for tourism and growing seasons as well as their utilization of a third-party business to manage

H-2A immigrant workers to support their growth. 

Sam Bailey, Strategic Initiatives Manager with NLEA, will discuss the demographic and labor force trends shaping our region before moderating the panel discussion.