Anchored in Trust:
Strengthening Positive Employee Relations
Spring 2026 CUE Conference
April 19-21 • Hilton Tampa Downtown • Tampa, Florida
The conference launches in:
Set your course for the Spring 2026 CUE Conference, launching Sunday, April 19, at the Hilton Tampa Downtown. Guided by the theme Anchored in Trust: Strengthening Positive Employee Relations, this program will deliver high-impact sessions, spirited peer discussions, and practical guidance to help you steady employee relations, navigate campaigns, and chart a confident path through today’s labor law landscape. Join fellow labor and employee relations professionals and come away ready to lead with clarity and confidence.
Conference Registration:
- CUE Members: $1345
- Non-Members: $1645
- Spouses/Partners: $195
Key Links:
Registration Includes:
- Welcome Reception
- General Sessions and Panels
- Breakout Sessions
- Networking Events
- Two Breakfasts
- Two Lunches
- First-Time Attendee Orientation
Why Attend a CUE Conference?
Why Attend a CUE Conference?
Charting the Course Ahead
The Spring 2026 CUE Conference agenda is charted with purpose, bringing together timely insights, proven strategies, and practical guidance across employee relations, labor law, and workforce management. Navigate expert-led panels, hands-on discussions, and meaningful networking moments designed to spark connection, share experience, and help you steer your organization forward with confidence.
All Hands on Deck
Networking is woven throughout the CUE conference, creating space to meet peers, swap perspectives, and build relationships that last beyond the event. From casual conversations to intentional connection points, you’ll have plenty of chances to trade ideas, gather practical insights, and navigate challenges alongside fellow industry professionals—no matter where you are on your journey.
Drop Anchor & Dive In
When the sessions wrap, the experience keeps sailing. The Spring 2026 CUE Conference in Tampa features a lineup of engaging activities that invite you to unwind, connect, and enjoy the city’s energy. From evening receptions to memorable social outings, these moments strike the right balance between laid-back fun and meaningful connection because the best conversations often happen off the main deck.
Tentative Agenda
All times Eastern.
All times, session topics and speakers are subject to change. Any changes will be posted as quickly as possible.
Updated: Feb. 23, 2026
Sunday, April 19, 2026
- 12:00 PM - Registration Desk Opens
-
2:30 PM - First Timers, Fast Start
A relaxed orientation for first-time attendees focused on navigating the conference, making connections, and getting immediate value from the CUE community.
- 3:15 PM - Break
- 3:30 PM - CUE Connections Discussion Groups - 3 Sessions
Each of the CUE Connections sessions will be designed to facilitate discussion among attendees, enabling sharing of experiences, challenges, and best practices in each area. Session topics:
Fresh Ideas That Stick: Employee Engagement
A peer-driven discussion spotlighting creative, practical employee engagement ideas—big and small—that are making a real difference inside organizations.Ready When It Counts: Rapid Response in Action
An interactive conversation on building and maintaining rapid response readiness before organizing or issues emerge.Managing with Confidence in a Unionized Workplace
A candid exchange on leadership, communication, and operational decision-making in unionized environments.
- 3:30 PM - CUE Connections Discussion Group - Session 1
- 4:20 PM - CUE Connections Discussion Group - Session 2
- 5:15 PM - CUE Connections Discussion Group - Session 3
-
6:00 PM - Welcome Reception: Kickoff & Connections
Open the conference by reconnecting with peers, meeting new members, and starting conversations that will carry through the week.
Monday, April 20, 2026
- 6:45 AM - Registration Desk Opens
- 6:45 AM - Breakfast
-
8:00 AM - Welcome & What's Ahead
Conference opening remarks outlining key themes, session formats, and how to get the most from the next two days.
-
8:30 AM - Trust Isn't Soft: Building Credibility, Integrity, and Transparency
Robyn Pollack, Loutel and Quyrus Epps, The Ellwood Group
A practical look at what trust really means in the workplace and how leaders build—and maintain—it through everyday decisions.
-
9:30 AM - Decision Dialogue: Leadership in Real Time
A structured small-group exercise using real-world scenarios to explore decision-making challenges and peer-tested solutions.
- 10:00 AM - Break
-
10:25 AM - Right to Work, Decertification, and Dues: What Employers Need to Know Now
Glenn Taubman, National Right to Work Foundation
Aclear-eyed discussion of right-to-work considerations, decertification issues, and current questions surrounding dues, fines, and enforcement.
-
11:20 AM - The Southern Trojan Horse™: Corporate Campaigns with a New Twist, and Why It Matters
Terry Dunn, Positive Management Leadership, Inc. and James Richter, South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce
An update on evolving corporate campaign strategies and how employers can prepare internally and respond effectively.
- 12:15 PM - Lunch
-
1:25 PM - Decision‑Making Under Pressure: A Live Simulation of an Organizing Campaign
Erin Watson, lululemon
What happens when early employee concerns escalate into visible protest actions, walkouts, legal challenges, and a union election? In this hands‑on simulation, participants will step into the role of organizational leaders responding to a fictional—but highly realistic—organizing campaign. Teams will make decisions at each phase of escalation, drawing surprise developments that test strategy, consistency, and leadership alignment. This session focuses on practical decision‑making, common missteps, and how organizational responses can either escalate or de‑escalate risk.
-
4:15 PM - Ask the Experts: Your Questions, Straight Answers
An open Q&A session covering labor and employee relations issues currently facing employers.
-
4:45 PM - Wrap-Up & What's Next
Key takeaways and reminders before the evening networking begins.
-
6:00 PM - An Evening Reception
Continue conversations and connections in a relaxed, informal setting.
Tuesday, April 21, 2026
- 6:45 AM - Registration Desk Opens
- 6:45 AM - Breakfast
-
8:00 AM - Day Two Kickoff
Opening remarks to frame the day’s discussions and priorities.
-
8:30 AM - Strikes: Preparation, Pressure, and Practical Reality
Joe Schollaert, AFIMAC
A grounded discussion on strike activity, employer preparedness, and managing operational and employee relations challenges.
-
9:30 AM - Decision Dialogue: Pressure-Test Your Approach
A scenario-based peer discussion focused on complex labor relations decisions.
- 10:00 AM - Break
-
10:25 AM - The NLRB Landscape: What’s New and What’s Next
A timely update on recent and anticipated NLRB developments and what they mean for employers.
-
11:15 AM - Decision Dialogue: Applying the Law to the Workplace
A focused discussion on translating legal developments into practical workplace action.
- 11:45 AM - Lunch
-
1:00 PM - Preparing Your Workforce for AI—Without Losing Trust
Patricia Garland, PRG Consulting and Michael Vandervort, Labor Relations Institute
A forward-looking session on responsibly introducing AI while maintaining transparency, engagement, and employee confidence.
-
1:50 PM - Washington Watch: What Employers Should Be Tracking
Glen Spencer, US Chamber of Commerce
An overview of federal policy activity and labor-related developments emerging from Washington given by the US Chamber of Commerce.
- 2:50 PM - Break
-
3:05 PM - Talking About Unions: When, How, and What Works
Phil Wilson, Labor Relations Institute; Nick Kalm, Reputation Partners; Tom Lillywhite, Old Dominion Freight Lines; Trey Bryan, U-Haul; and Brian Dale, The Reading Truck Group
Guidance on lawful, effective, and authentic communication with employees about unions and labor relations topics.
-
4:20 PM - Ask the Experts: Final Round
One last opportunity to bring your questions to experienced practitioners.
-
4:45 PM - Closing & Thank You
Final reflections and appreciation as the conference concludes.
-
5:00 PM - Closing Reception
Wrap up the conference with informal networking and connection.
Wednesday, April 22, 2026
-
8:00 AM - Inside the Deal: Labor & Employee Relations in M&A (Additional cost)
Robyn Pollack, Loutel; Michael Fischetti, The Reading Truck Group; Nick Kalm, Reputation Partners; and Michael VanDervort, Labor Relations Institute
An in-depth workshop exploring labor and employee relations considerations during mergers and acquisitions, with practical examples and discussion.
-
NLRB Behind the Scenes
Pull back the curtain and gain insider insights into how NLRB decisions are made and what that means for your strategy and compliance efforts. -
Rapid Response Panel: Building the Team Before You Need It
Work in partnership in this discussion on how to assemble and prepare a rapid response team to stay agile, aligned, and ready when issues arise. -
Gen Z on the Job: Communication That Connects
In this panel discussion, discover how to effectively engage Gen Z employees and build bridges across generations in your workforce. -
Campaign Strategies at Every Level: A Group-Based Skill Builder
Participants will break into groups based on their campaign experience level to explore tailored strategies, tools, and real-time scenarios—whether you’re brand new or a seasoned pro. -
Case in Point: A Real-World Campaign Breakdown
Go beyond theory with a detailed case study of a recent campaign. What worked, what didn’t, and what you can learn for next time. -
Hands-On Collective Bargaining: Strategy in Action
Step into the negotiation room in this interactive session where you’ll tackle real-world bargaining scenarios. After an overview session, learn by doing as you work through tough issues, build consensus, and practice your strategy in real time. -
Empowering the Front Line: Supervisor Training that Works
Learn how to equip supervisors with the skills, confidence, and consistency they need to support positive employee relations—and avoid missteps. -
NLRB Update: What’s New, What’s Next
Get the latest on Board decisions, policy shifts, and pending litigation that could impact your workplace. -
AI at Work: How to Use It Effectively
Get the latest on Board decisions, policy shifts, and pending litigation that could impact your workplace. -
ERGs in Action: Evolving Roles, Expanding Impact
Explore how Employee Resource Groups are shifting and how to design and maintain them to sure they remain a win for companies and employees! -
Hiring in the Age of Salts and Culture Fit
Navigate the legal and practical challenges of today’s hiring environment, where union salts and cultural alignment collide.
Post-Conference Workshop
Inside the Deal: Labor & Employee Relations in M&A
Hosts: Robyn Pollack, Loutel; Michael Fischetti, The Reading Truck Group; Nick Kalm, Reputation Partners; and Michael VanDervort, Labor Relations Institute
An in-depth workshop exploring labor and employee relations considerations during mergers and acquisitions, with practical examples and discussion.
- Wednesday, April 22, 2026
- 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- $200 for members | $250 for non-members
- 4 recertification credits
Remember to add the post-conference workshop when registering for the conference! Or email cue@cueinc.com to add the workshop if you've already registered.
Conference Speakers
Top labor and employee relations professionals, attorneys, and experts coming together for two days to share updates and insights.
Trey Bryan
Director, Team Member Relations
U-Haul International, Inc.
Brian Dale
Regional HR Business Partner
The Reading Truck Group
Terry Dunn
President
Positive Management Leadership, Inc.
Quyrus Epps
Director of Team Member Relations
ELLWOOD Group, Inc.
Michael Fischetti
Vice President, Human Resources
The Reading Truck Group
Patricia Garland
Consultant
PRG Consulting
Nick Kalm
Founder and CEO
Reputation Partners, LLC.
Tom Lillywhite
Sr. Regional Human Resource and Development Manager
Old Dominion
Robyn Pollack
Workplace Culture Strategist & Co-Founder
Loutel
James Richter
Director of Research & Projects
South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce
Joe Schollaert
Risk Mitigation Advisor
AFIMAC Global
Glen Spencer
Senior Vice President, Employment Policy Division
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Glenn M. Taubman
Staff Attorney
National Right to Work Foundation
Michael VanDervort
Labor and Employee Relations Expert
Labor Relations Institute & Approachable Leadership
Erin Watson
Senior Manager of Organization Health and Engagement
lululemon
Phil Wilson
CEO and General Counsel
Labor Relations Institute & Approachable Leadership
Hilton Tampa Downtown
The Spring 2026 CUE Conference will be held at the Hilton Tampa Downtown.
- CUE advises you to plan your arrival for the morning of Sunday, April 19th to enjoy all the conference has to offer.
- Ensure you get the best room rate for your CUE conference stay by booking with Hilton Tampa Downtown as soon as possible.
Sail Into Tampa:
Where Business Meets the Bay
Tampa, Florida sits along the sparkling waters of Tampa Bay, blending a vibrant urban scene with coastal charm. Downtown offers modern venues, lively dining, and cultural hotspots, making it an ideal setting for our conference.
The waterfront invites relaxation and adventure, so prepare to stroll the scenic Riverwalk, explore historic Ybor City, or take in the harbor views. Tampa’s nautical vibe adds energy and inspiration to every visit.
With an international airport, easy highways, and walkable districts, getting around is simple. Tampa combines business, culture, and natural beauty, leaving every visitor impressed and inspired.
Getting to & around Tampa
Airport - TPA
It's best to fly into Tampa International Airport
4100 George J. Bean Pkwy
Tampa, FL 33607 US
Transportation
Be sure to download Uber, Lyft or another ridesharing app. Please note that drivers are in high demand, so plan for possible wait times or schedule your ride in advance.
Conference Hotel - Hilton Tampa Downtown
211 North Tampa Street
Tampa, Florida, 33602, USA
+1 813-204-3000
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are a few frequently asked questions gathered from first-time CUE conference attendees. If you have any other questions about CUE conferences, please email director@cueinc.com or call 1-866-409-4283.
Click the question to see the answer.
Every year, CUE Inc. conducts two national conferences, one in the Spring and the other in the Fall. These events attract human resources professionals, labor and employee relations professionals, labor lawyers, and consultants from North America and across the globe. Our members and attendees represent virtually every industry, and companies ranging from small businesses to large Fortune 100 employers.
While attending our conferences, attendees take part in sessions offering a cutting-edge focus on pro-active human resources practices, and the latest developments in labor and employee relations. CUE conferences offer unparalleled networking opportunities with hundreds of other labor relations, human resources and operations management professionals.
Recommended dress code for the conference is business casual, except for the Monday night reception where casual dress is encouraged.
We strive to provide meals that allow our attendees to enjoy meals according to their preferences, including vegan, gluten-free and others. All dishes are marked with signage to make your meal selections simple. You can also notify a server at your table that you have special dining requirements, and they will be happy to assist you.
Many of our attendees have their spouse traveling with them. If a spouse wants to eat conference meals or attend networking events, they can do so by paying $195.00. Guest registration can be done when originally registering for the conference. If you would like to add a guest after you have registered, please contact CUE at 1-210-545-3499 x1 to register your spouse prior to the conference. You may also pay the spouse conference fee at the Registration desk.
You can register for the workshop at the same time you complete your main conference registration. If you would like to add that registration after you have completed your registration, please contact CUE at 1-210-545-3499 x1 to register prior to the conference. You may also register for the PCW at the Registration desk upon your arrival at the conference, assuming space is available.
Our goal at a CUE conference is to create events that provide educational and networking opportunities for you. The dress code is casual. The event runs from 6 to 9 PM but feel free to pop in and out as you explore our host city.
SHRM & HRCI Recertification Opportunities
Attendees at the Spring 2026 CUE Conference can advance their professional development while earning valuable recertification credits. Conference sessions and the post-conference offer a total of 11 credits over the course of the event.
Conference Credits
Conference sessions are approved for 7 SHRM and HRCI credits, giving participants the opportunity to deepen their expertise in employee and labor relations while maintaining their credentials.
Workshop Credits
For those looking to maximize their learning, the post-conference offers an additional 4 credits.
Registration Verification & Check-in Process
Registrants will be verified through a multi-step verification process to ensure that they are employed by a member company. Non-member and individual attendees will be reviewed and approved for attendance by the CUE Executive Committee.
CUE limits attendance to those employed by non-government companies. Additionally, consultants and attorneys may only attend by invitation. To request an invitation, please email Elizabeth at director@cueinc.com.
Check-in Process
Bring Your Identification
Each individual must show a state ID before receiving a badge.
Sign the Pledge
Require registrants to sign pledge, acknowledging agreement not to record or broadcast content.
Comply with the Rules
In the conference handbook and verbally, we ask all attendees to comply with the rules below:
- Disclose Disclaimer: Content is intended for the private commercial use of attendees only and may not be reproduced without the prior express permission of CUE. Photography, Broadcasting, Taping and Recording is strictly prohibited. Copies of handouts and/or PowerPoint slides, if available, are on the CUE website (password protected) and the CUE Mobile Conference App (password protected) for download.
- Attendee Badges: For the safety and security of all attendees, badges are required to be worn at all CUE activities and events. Cooperation is required and appreciated.
- Cell Phone Usage: As a courtesy to our speakers and other attendees, please place your cell phone in silent mode. The use of the CUE event app is encouraged.
Tell a Friend!
Encourage your colleagues to attend this conference.
About CUE
CUE is a non-profit, member-led community with the latest techniques for improving labor and employee relations.
CUE has over 100 member companies, both union and union-free, representing a cross-section of business and industry, from small firms to Fortune 500 companies.
We are dedicated to assisting companies that believe that their employees deserve a workplace that is built around flexibility, productivity, quality of work life, fairness, the opportunity to participate in decisions affecting one’s future and the opportunity to succeed.
Learn more about CUE.
Assisting employers in establishing positive and forward-looking workplace practices for over 40 years.
Copyright © CUE, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
