New York, NY — The 46 th Annual Labor & Management Conference is a forum that addresses crucial issues of concern to Labor and Management. With stand-out speakers, and timely topics, it has become something to look forward to. LaborPress was able to find out more from Barbara McCabe, manager and director of the NLMC.
LP: When and where will the NLMC take place this year?
BM: The 46th Annual Labor & Management Conference will be held February 16-21 at the Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood, Florida.
LP: What is the purpose of the conference?
BM: The National Labor and Management Conference is a forum for the critical issues of the moment affecting both Labor and Management, with a special focus on Taft Hartley Funds. We feature the leading voices of the Labor community along with new, exciting voices and ideas. The forum consistently presents timely and significant issues from the perspectives of management, labor and neutrals, and provides stimulating exchanges of views on, and approaches to, labor relations. We challenge our presenters to arm our attendees with actionable next steps.
LP: What is the focus of the conference?
BM: As always, a big focus is on the issues affecting Taft Hartley Funds but this year we will also focus on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and how the initiative is being rolled out across the country. We plan to identify insights from Labor & Management on how this effort can be streamlined and also incorporate key priorities around sustainability and equity. Additionally, we’re excited to be discussing pension fund investments, from traditional models to newer and sustainable income generators. We’ll be looking into healthcare on many points: pharmacy, improved care management models, mental health, addiction treatment updates and most importantly controlling healthcare costs.
LP: Who is the NLMC’s audience?
BM: Trustees and directors of multi-employer health, welfare and pension funds Fund administrators Union leadership Senior corporate management Labor lawyers, fund counsel and advisors Labor relations professionals from both labor and management…and more!
LP: Who are some of the speakers this year?
BM: Tom Conway, International President, United Steelworkers Keynote #2: April Verret, Secretary-Treasurer, SEIU Jennifer Abruzzo, General Counsel, NLRB Terry O’Sullivan, President, LIUNA Sean McGarvey, President, North American Building Trades Gary LaBarbera, President, NYS Building Trades
LP: What are some of the most important issues and topics that will be addressed?
BM:Insights from International Presidents on their priorities and challenges. An update from the National Labor Relations Board. A discussion of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and how the initiative is being rolled out across the country. We plan to identify insights from Labor & Management on how this effort can be streamlined and also incorporate key priorities around sustainability and equity. Labor Leaders discuss recent activity and the creation of new unions; why some new groups align with traditional unions and some do not. The case for Pension Fund Investment into Building Affordable Housing.
LP: What will some of the highlights be?
BM: Insights from International Presidents on their priorities and challenges.
LP: Do you expect COVID to affect the event in any way?
BM: We are hoping COVID does not affect the event and ask our attendees to take protective measures they see fit. We are taking steps to protect our attendees by making masks and hand sanitizer available throughout the meeting and will certainly be following the CDC guidelines.
LP: Is there a message or theme that you will be hoping to get across?
BM: Especially in these uncertain times when paths forward are not clear, it is vital to network and benchmark with peers to evolve best practices. We are proud to provide that opportunity for meaningful networking.
LP: Where can people learn more and register?
BM: Online at https://nlmc.regfox.com/nlmc-2023 or by phone at (888) 459-3111