Meeting/Event Information

Program Overview

Join us for an impactful session designed to empower HR professionals to successfully hire, retain, and support individuals with both visible and invisible disabilities.

This workshop challenges common misconceptions and explores how unconscious bias can influence hiring decisions, workplace interactions, and employee retention. Attendees will gain practical strategies to build more inclusive recruiting processes, strengthen workplace culture, and better support employees through effective communication and accommodations.

Research continues to show that employees with disabilities often demonstrate strong retention and long-term commitment. By recognizing the value of this often-overlooked talent pool, organizations can enhance innovation, improve morale, and create a more inclusive and productive work environment.

This session will also highlight how HR professionals play a critical role in guiding managers, navigating the interactive process, and partnering with external resources to support workforce success.

What You’ll Learn

• Understand the definition of disability under the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA)
• Identify and address unconscious bias in hiring and workplace practices
• Apply inclusive recruiting strategies to improve candidate evaluation
• Navigate the interactive process for workplace accommodations
• Support retention strategies for employees with disabilities and an aging workforce
• Partner with external resources like Nevada Vocational Rehabilitation
• Strengthen communication, coaching, and leadership support practices

HRCI Alignment

Functional Areas:

• Talent Planning & Acquisition
• Employee & Labor Relations
• Business Management & Strategy

Knowledge & Competency Areas:

• Employee engagement and retention strategies
• Equal employment opportunity and compliance (ADAAA)
• Communication and consultation

Presenter

Erica Brown
Erica Brown serves as the Southern Nevada Business Account Manager for the State of Nevada Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation. She works alongside a dedicated Business Services Team to support employers in building inclusive and effective workforce strategies.

Erica began her career with the State of Nevada in 2007 with the Employment Security Division, where she assisted job seekers with resume development, interview preparation, and job search strategies.

In 2018, she transitioned to the Rehabilitation Division, focusing on helping individuals with disabilities secure meaningful employment. Since 2020, Erica has partnered closely with employers and community organizations to raise awareness of the challenges and opportunities related to disability inclusion in the workplace.

Through her work, Erica helps organizations recognize the value of a highly motivated and skilled talent pool. She is passionate about dispelling misconceptions, promoting inclusive hiring practices, and helping employers understand the productivity, retention, and cultural benefits of a diverse workforce.

This program is pending CLE credits