Agenda

Welcome to the S3 - Screening, Safety, & Strategy conference, an immersive experience designed to provide invaluable insights into the most pressing topics in the industry today. Tailor your day according to your interests and professional needs!


Event Schedule:
    » 8 AM - 10 AM - Registration & Networking
    » 10 AM - 5 PM - 24 Educational Sessions
    » 5 PM - 8 PM - Networking & Entertainment

Note: Sessions and topics subject to change and cancellation without prior notice.

AGENDA


time iconJanuary 29, 2026 10:00 am

Employment law keeps moving, creating new obligations for all companies. This session gives HR and Safety leaders a concise update on what changed, what matters, and what to do about it. Your presenter, an employment attorney with 35 years of experience representing management, will translate new state and federal practices, policy shifts, case rulings, and enforcement trends into clear decisions for hiring, screening, and your daily operations. Expect practical guidance and examples you can put to work right away.


Key Learnings: 

  1. Understand recent shifts in state and federal practices, policies, and enforcement priority.
  2. Spot new and developing workplace issues driving employment law exposure across hiring, screening, and discipline.
  3. Apply clear steps to reduce liability risk immediately.
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Joe Beachboard
Beachboard Consulting Group

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 11:15 am

A candid panel on the biggest headwinds in background screening. The conversation examines regulatory shifts, privacy and data access, court backlogs and turnaround, automation and AI, continuous monitoring and rescreening, and client cost pressures.


Key Learnings:

  1. Overview of regulatory and privacy trends reshaping background checks, including state data laws and evolving guidance.

  2. Insight into how court access, data quality, and turnaround affect hiring speed, adjudication consistency, and candidate experience.

  3. Considerations for continuous monitoring and rescreening models, with attention to consent flows and adverse action touch points.


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Pam Devata
Seyfarth Shaw LLP

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Chad Ascar
DISA Global Solutions

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Morgan Reynolds
DISA Global Solutions

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Melissa Sorenson
Professional Background Screening Association

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 12:30 pm

A practical overview of AI and predictive analytics in background checks. The session outlines common uses in identity proofing, records retrieval, adjudication support, and candidate communication, with attention to fairness risks, explainability, and human oversight. It also highlights emerging data-privacy and algorithmic accountability laws, plus vendor vetting considerations for data sources, transparency, performance monitoring, and audit trails.


Key Learnings:

  1. Where AI and analytics appear in screening workflows, including identity proofing, data retrieval, decision support, and candidate messaging.
  2. Fairness safeguards to weigh, including bias testing, explainability, human oversight, and adverse action documentation.
  3. Privacy and transparency checkpoints across key laws, with a vendor diligence list on data sources, governance, monitoring, and audit trails.


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Morgan Reynolds
DISA Global Solutions

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 01:45 pm

A practical look at ongoing screening models for HR. The session compares continuous monitoring and scheduled rescreening, highlights privacy and compliance considerations, and explains where digital identity and verifiable credentials fit.


Key Learnings:

  1. Compare continuous monitoring and rescreening models, with tradeoffs for risk coverage, cost, and employee experience.

  2. Review privacy and compliance considerations, including consent, adverse action touchpoints, data minimization, and multi-state trends.

  3. Understand where digital identity and verifiable credentials support pre-hire and post-hire checks.

 

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Chad Ascar
DISA Global Solutions

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 03:00 pm

Hiring across states brings different rules. This session breaks down fair-chance initiatives, ban-the-box, timing limits, credit-check rules, and new state data-protection laws. We will also cover EEOC shifts and what a rollback means for screening. You will get clear steps to align policy, workflow, and documentation.


Key Learnings:
  1. Overview of fair-chance initiatives and ban-the-box rules by state.

  2. Multi-state screening workflow examples. Conditional offers, background checks, individualized assessment, and notices.

  3. Update on credit-check limits, state data-protection laws, and EEOC shifts.

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Pam Devata
Seyfarth Shaw LLP

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 10:00 am

New substances are reshaping workplace risk. This session surveys fentanyl, 7-OH, nitazenes, and other emerging threats. It covers screening impacts across hiring, random, post-incident, and return-to-duty testing. It highlights panel design, confirmation options, and policy alignment for safety-sensitive roles.


Key Learnings:

  1. Overview of emerging opioids and synthetics affecting screening. Fentanyl analogs, 7-OH, nitazenes, and poly-drug trends.
  2. Testing approach and matrix drive detection. Sensitivity, confirmation steps, cutoff rationale, and panel update planning.
  3. Program implications for HR and Safety. Risk signals, random and post-incident focus, safety-sensitive prioritization, policy and MRO coordination.
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David J. Kuntz PhD, F-ABFT
CRL/FormFox

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 11:15 am

Practical guide for HR and safety to design strong drug-testing programs. Coverage includes current risks and positivity trends, test methods and matrices, panel choices, and timing across pre-employment, random, post-incident, and return-to-duty testing. Expect a clear view of multi-state rules, THC and fentanyl decisions, MRO steps, and communication practices. 


Key Learnings:


  1. Current positivity and risk signals. Fentanyl, stimulants, marijuana, and multi-drug use.
  2. Testing design choices. Method and matrix selection, panel build, confirmation and MRO flow, and timing by testing reason.
  3. Multi-state and policy considerations. Marijuana rules, DOT vs non-DOT, documentation, roles, and communication.
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Colin Woods
DISA Global Solutions

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 12:30 pm

The majority of employers consider their workplace drug screening programs to be a critical tool for maintaining safety and compliance, and they are 100% correct. What is not as well understood is how your workplace drug screening program can MAKE YOU MONEY! More than half of the states offer some form of financial incentive for employers that voluntarily comply with specific rules or participate in Drug-Free Workplace Programs (DFWP), ranging from insurance premium discounts for simply having a screening program in place to denying costly Workers’ Compensation or unemployment claims solely based on a positive substance test. These opportunities must be understood and leveraged. In addition to direct incentives, this session also addresses the “invisible” cost drivers that shape ROI—fewer accidents and injuries, reduced downtime, lower abuse-related loss, and improved productivity. The savings from these financial incentives often cover the costs of your entire screening program and more!


Key Learnings:

  1. Overview of the opportunities employers should consider to leverage financial incentives.
  2. Deep dive into the program requirements by state.
  3. Policy and procedural considerations, including how to estimate indirect savings from reduced accidents, downtime, abuse-related loss, and productivity drag.
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William J. Judge, JD, LL.M.
Drug Screening Compliance Institute (DSCI)

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Nick Hartman
Drug Screening Compliance Institute (DSCI)

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 01:45 pm

Marijuana rules keep shifting across states while federal rescheduling remains in play. This session maps what matters for programs: THC vs CBD and hemp derivatives, impairment vs presence, and DOT vs non-DOT differences. Coverage includes test matrices and detection windows, panel and cutoff strategy, confirmation workflows, and MRO considerations, as well as policy considerations for safety-sensitive roles, accommodation touch points, and manager messaging.


Key Learnings:

  1. Regulatory and policy snapshot. State trends, federal rescheduling steps, DOT and non-DOT contrasts.
  2. Testing realities. Method and matrix differences, detection windows, delta-8 and other hemp variants, confirmation and cutoff choices.
  3. Program implications. Safety-sensitive focus, accommodation and discipline touch points, policy language, and documentation.


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Jo McGuire
National Drug & Alcohol Screening Association

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 03:00 pm

State-level medical marijuana cards continue to impact some workplace drug testing outcomes. This session explains the Medical Review Officer (MRO) process when an employee tests positive for marijuana and presents a valid medical marijuana card. We will cover what the MRO verifies, what HR receives, and the employer obligations that apply before taking action. The focus is compliance, consistency, and reducing risk across a patchwork of state laws.

 

Key Learnings:

  1. How the MRO reviews medical marijuana cards. Verification, state limits, and valid medical explanations.
  2. What HR receives from the MRO. Final result reporting, use restrictions, and protected information.
  3. Employer responsibilities before action. Process expectations, accommodation considerations, and safety-sensitive roles.
  4. Managing state-by-state differences. Aligning policies, manager guidance, and documentation without creating inconsistency.


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Faye Caldwell
Caldwell Everson PLLC

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Anu Konakanchi, M.D., MRO
University Services

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 04:15 pm

Prepare your program for 2026. This session covers likely rule shifts, state and federal tension on marijuana, testing methods on the rise, and policy moves for diverse worksites. You leave with a clear plan to align policy, training, and vendor oversight.


Key Learnings:

  1. 2026 compliance outlook across high-risk states and DOT programs 
  2. Upcoming legislation you need to be aware of in 2026. 
  3. Testing strategy choices for urine, oral fluid, and hair across hiring, random, and post-incident use.
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Faye Caldwell
Caldwell Everson PLLC

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 10:00 am

A focused briefing on the American Trucking Associations’ annual safety and regulatory update. The session reviews ATA priorities, key regulatory actions, and emerging safety technologies. Discussion centers on what these shifts mean for HR and Safety programs, including hiring, screening, training, and incident response.


Key Learnigns:

  1. Overview of ATA themes and regulatory focus areas shaping safety and compliance including those related to driver qualifications.
  2. Snapshot of emerging safety technologies and practical adoption considerations.
  3. Program implications for HR and Safety. Screening, qualification files, training touch points, and policy refresh priorities.
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Brenna Lyles
American Trucking Associations

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 11:15 am

For decades, hiring and retaining drivers has been challenging for motor carriers of all sizes. In this session, attendees will see the latest data and trends around today’s driver market and understand how to better navigate driver recruiting and retention. Leave with tangible takeaways and action items to improve your recruiting and retention and make data-driven decisions for how you navigate the driver market today and in the future.


Key Learnings:

Understand the latest data, trends and highlights around driver recruiting and retention.

  1. Trends related to full applications, sources and strategies performing best for carriers in today’s driver market.
  2. The latest driver survey data – driver opinions on various topics related to recruiting and retention.


The Digital & Social Media Revolution & How Carriers Have Adapted.

  1. Examples and case studies of strategies, tools and innovation that recruiting and retention professionals are using to successfully hire and retain in today’s driver market.
  2. Data behind the type of content, videos, etc. drivers are consuming online.
  3. Trends related to driver reviews and how carriers are managing online reputation to gain more leads and hires.


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Priscilla Peters
Conversion Interactive Agency

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 12:30 pm

A safety management discussion about how best to blend culture and technology to create a robust safety program.


Key Learnings:

  1. How to evaluate internal needs.
  2. How to respond to regulatory changes.
  3. How to engage drivers.


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Christy Choice
Tenstreet LLC

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 01:45 pm

An employer-led roundtable on connecting compliance and driver well-being. Discussion covers CSA scoring, non-domiciled drivers and new guidance, English language proficiency and RSI outcomes, THC differences for DOT and non-DOT, Clearinghouse accuracy, medical certifications, insurance cost drivers, hours-of-service violations, employment screening regulations, and hair testing.


Key Learnings:

  1. Understand how CSA scoring, hours-of-service violations, and insurance cost drivers influence daily operations and safety culture.
  2. Review compliance touchpoints across non-domiciled drivers, English language proficiency, medical certifications, and Clearinghouse accuracy and completion.
  3. Recognize screening program implications, including THC rules for DOT and non-DOT drivers, hair testing considerations, and documentation that supports consistent decisions.
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Steven Spencer
DISA Global Solutions

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Justin Copeland
United Road

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Ronnie Holland
TCW, Inc

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Chris Woody
The M&W Logistics Group, Inc.

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 03:00 pm
A practical audit-readiness briefing for fleets and safety-sensitive employers. Walk through 10 checks across hiring and driver files: driver qualification and employment application practices, CDL and medical certification verification, MVR and Clearinghouse documentation, English-language proficiency standards, and record retention.

Key Learnings:
  1. FMCSA audit focus areas for fleets. Driver qualification files, MVR cadence, Clearinghouse queries and documentation, medical card tracking.
  2. Driver qualification and CDL verification practices. Employment application detail, endorsements including hazmat, license status checks, and state variances.
  3. Job-related English proficiency. Where to document expectations, interpreter use, and supervisor communication.
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Juan J. Moya
Current Consulting Group LLC

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 04:15 pm

Industry insiders and compliance experts break down what’s next in FMCSA rules, evolving drug and alcohol testing mandates, and screening regulations. Gain practical insight into how these shifts will affect safety-sensitive employers in 2026 and beyond.


Key Learnings:

  1. Understand the FMCSA outlook for 2026, including the rule making path and current enforcement focus.
  2. Recognize how changes in oral fluid testing, marijuana rescheduling, and Clearinghouse processes may affect screening programs, including post-accident and return-to-duty steps.
  3. Review compliance considerations for cases involving undocumented status with a CDL, with attention to verification, documentation, driver qualification files, and medical certification.
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Chris Eichenberg
DISA Global Solutions

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Brenna Lyles
American Trucking Associations

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Priscilla Peters
Conversion Interactive Agency

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Steven Spencer
DISA Global Solutions

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Juan J. Moya
Current Consulting Group LLC

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 11:15 am

Not every organization needs a large full-time HR team, but every organization needs HR done right. In this session, CWC HR breaks down how fractional HR works, what problems it solves, and how to spot the signs that your business needs outside support. This is an ideal introduction for founders, COOs, or solo HR leaders seeking expert partnership without full-time overhead.


Key Learnings:

  1. Define what fractional HR is and identify when it's a strategic solution for lean teams or growing businesses.
  2. Recognize key operational warning signs that indicate an organization is outgrowing its current HR capabilities.
  3. Differentiate between tactical and strategic HR activities, and assess how to prioritize each within a small team structure.
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Ciera Parks
CWC HR Solutions & Training

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 12:30 pm

In an era of increasing regulatory complexity, occupational health professionals play a pivotal role in safeguarding workforce safety, organizational integrity, and regulatory adherence.  Yet, amid evolving standards and competing demands, the foundational principles of compliance are sometimes overlooked.  This presentation will go “back to basics” with revisiting the core elements necessary to assure occupational health compliance in common OSHA regulatory standards, such as surveillance testing/examinations, and respiratory compliance.   Practical approaches to assuring regulatory compliance and aligning policies with OSHA standards will be reviewed.  By returning to the fundamentals, participants will be able to assess their current compliance culture, identify gaps, and implement sustainable worksite occupational health interventions to assure compliance, promote safety, and achieve a healthier workplace.


Key Learnings:

  1. Identify key regulatory OSHA standards and foundational compliance principles relevant to occupational health practice.
  2. Demonstrate strategies to integrate compliance behaviors into daily operations to promote a culture of safety and accountability.
  3. Evaluate current organizational practices to identify gaps and develop action steps that strengthen regulatory compliance and staff engagement.
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Kim Olszewski
DISA Global Solutions

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 01:45 pm

Pull back the curtain on real consulting experiences to uncover the unspoken expectations leaders have for HR, and the critical ways we often fall short. In this candid, high-impact session, HR consultant Mallory Herrin shares the most common patterns, missteps, and missed opportunities she sees when organizations call for help. From performance management disasters to dangerous culture gaps and avoidable legal risks, attendees will gain hard-earned insights, actionable strategies, and the clarity needed to elevate their HR practice. This is not another compliance checklist: It's a wake-up call, a reset, and a roadmap for becoming the HR partner your organization actually needs.


Key Learnings:

  1. Recognize the most common HR pitfalls that quietly erode culture, increase risk, and reduce leadership trust.
  2. Apply practical strategies to improve influence, accountability, and proactive risk mitigation in complex HR scenarios.
  3. Reframe your HR approach to align with what today’s leaders value most—strategic insight, courageous counsel, and cultural clarity.
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Mallory Herrin
HerrinHR

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 03:00 pm

An economist’s snapshot of the 2026 labor market for HR leaders. The session covers talent supply and demand, wage direction, sector and regional differences, and policy signals. Discussion ties these trends to hiring speed, offer strategy, and screening programs across background, drug testing, and safety-sensitive roles.


Key Learnings:

  1. Labor supply and demand signals for 2026. Participation, openings, quits, sector hot spots, regional shifts.
  2. Wage direction and pressure points. Pay compression, incentives, productivity links, affordability concerns.
  3. Hiring and screening implications. Offer speed, sourcing mix, geographic strategy, and program capacity across background and drug testing.
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John Frehse
Ankura

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 04:15 pm

A practical briefing on employment law changes taking effect in 2026. We cover state and local minimum wage increases, rising non-compete salary thresholds, expansions in paid and unpaid family and medical leave, new pay transparency and pay-stub rules, and AI-related anti-discrimination requirements. 


Key Learnings:

  1. Understand how 2026 minimum wage updates and shifting non-compete salary thresholds affect agreements, classifications, and offers. 
  2. Review leave program expansions, pay-transparency postings, and pay-stub disclosures that drive policy, payroll, and record updates. 
  3. Recognize emerging AI compliance expectations for hiring tools, including documentation and bias-testing practices under state anti-discrimination laws.


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Ryan Parker
SixFifty

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 01:15 pm

Between scheduled sessions, join us in Room 230 for a dedicated networking window specifically for Recruiters, Onboarding, and Talent Leaders. This time is set aside to step away from the main program, connect with peers, and have focused conversations with professionals who share similar roles, challenges, and priorities.


Come exchange insights, compare approaches, and build relationships with others navigating the same work. Whether you are looking to pressure-test ideas, learn how peers handle emerging issues, or expand your professional network, this time is intentionally structured to support meaningful connections without competing session content.

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 02:30 pm

Between scheduled sessions, join us in Room 230 for a dedicated networking window specifically for HR Leadership (Director, VP, CHRO). This time is set aside to step away from the main program, connect with peers, and have focused conversations with professionals who share similar roles, challenges, and priorities.


Come exchange insights, compare approaches, and build relationships with others navigating the same work. Whether you are looking to pressure-test ideas, learn how peers handle emerging issues, or expand your professional network, this time is intentionally structured to support meaningful connections without competing session content.

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 03:45 pm

Between scheduled sessions, join us in Room 230 for a dedicated networking window specifically for Compliance Leaders. This time is set aside to step away from the main program, connect with peers, and have focused conversations with professionals who share similar roles, challenges, and priorities.


Come exchange insights, compare approaches, and build relationships with others navigating the same work. Whether you are looking to pressure-test ideas, learn how peers handle emerging issues, or expand your professional network, this time is intentionally structured to support meaningful connections without competing session content.

time iconJanuary 29, 2026 04:15 pm

From employee screening to compliance, DISA is your holistic solution. Join us as we walk you through our extensive service line, showcasing our expertise and explaining why DISA stands out as your one-stop shop for all your needs.


Key Learnings:

1. Comprehensive understanding of DISA's services.
2. Exploring the breadth and depth of solutions offered.
3. The unique value proposition of DISA.
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Gary Wiese
DISA Global Solutions