Meet the Speakers for the Kick-off to Return-to-Work for Women Series
UNTAPPED POTENTIAL Inc's 15th Bi-Annual Event
We’re excited to kick off our 15th Bi-Annual Return-to-Work for Women Series under the empowering theme “Be part of the Solution” for gender equality in the workplace. Whether you’re returning to work after a caregiving break or navigating a new career path, this event is important. Twice a year, UNTAPPED POTENTAL brings together forward-thinking business leaders and top female talent with the goal of ensuring their careers do not remain sidelined in today's job board and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). By embracing your potential, you’re contributing to a future where women’s careers and lives are valued equally in the workforce.
I’m honored to introduce the terrific speakers who will share their insights from a broader perspective. Each speaker hails from a different vantage point, illuminating the current economic scenario and the value of #womenreturners at this unique point in time and how we can each be part of the solution delivering gender equality for work.
John McTighe – CEO of Fairscreen & CT Society of HR Management Council Director
John McTighe is a leader in reimagining human resource practices to ensure that all job seekers, regardless of background or career interruptions, receive fair consideration. As the CEO of Fairscreen, John has made it his mission to help organizations eliminate bias in their hiring processes, ensuring that people are seen for their true potential.
I have had the pleasure of co-presenting with John at several Society of HR Management (SHRM) events, including those in New York State, Long Island, and Tri-State SHRM (CT/MA/RI). John’s passion for broadening HR practices to include those working to rematriculate to the workforce following incarceration mirrors my commitment to advocating for #womenreturners who have stepped out of the workforce for caregiving. The barriers and biases these groups face are, unfortunately, quite parallel, and John’s dedication to removing them makes him a powerful advocate for inclusive hiring practices.
In both his roles, John hears firsthand the challenges HR leaders in a range of industries face. He will share insights from these learnings, highlighting why employers can no longer overlook this educated and experienced demographic if they wish to meet their growth objectives.
Kellie-Marie Valleres, PhD. – State of CT, Chief Workforce Officer
Dr. Kellie-Marie Valleres is leading transformative changes in Connecticut’s workforce development as the state’s first Chief Workforce Officer. In the state of Connecticut, we are so fortunate to have both a Chief Workforce Officer and a Chief Manufacturing Officer, demonstrating the state’s commitment to addressing workforce needs at all levels.
With Kellie-Marie’s strong business leadership experience as a former manufacturing executive, I look forward to the progress we will make impacting gender equality with her at the helm of the Governor's Council for Women and Girls (COWAG)—as I serve on the Education and STEAM subcommittee.
Kathryn Sollmann – Career Coach, Speaker & Author of "Ambition Re-defined"
Kathryn Sollmann is a passionate advocate for flexible work arrangements and career paths that align with the complexities of modern women’s lives. As a career coach and author of “Ambition Re-defined”, Kathryn challenges traditional notions of career success and offers alternative models that prioritize balance and flexibility.
Kathryn is a longtime advocate encouraging women to focus on financial literacy and their financial independence. Her tag line "finding flexible work that fits your life", encouraging to honor their personal needs and values while rethinking ambition and career advancement.
As the founder of UNTAPPED POTENTIAL Inc., I’m excited to bring these key voices together. My hope is that the framework of the discussion alone, motivates our audience to look beyond gender and/or the career gap such that equality in the workplace becomes a reality.
Be Part of the Solution
How? Attend.
If you are a Candidate, step out of your comfort zone.
If you are a Client, open your mind to the work a "mom" can do, given her degree and experience.
Together, we can overcome the biases and barriers women face when re-entering the workforce, making each of us part of the solution.
This event is more than just a conversation—it’s a call to action. By attending, you’re not only advancing your own career but contributing to a movement for gender equality in work. Join us as we empower women to step back into their careers with confidence and purpose.
Kick-off
Date: Monday, Oct 7, 2024
Location: zoom
Registration: upotential.org/events
Keywords: return to work, job search, gender equality, flexible work, ATS, career transition, economic empowerment, workforce development, career coaching