NIC SPEAKERS*
*Subject to change due to speaker availability
Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su
Julie Su, Acting Secretary of Labor since March 11, 2023, previously served as Deputy Secretary, managing the department's workforce, budget, and executing key priorities. Her leadership at DOL spearheaded historic reforms to labor laws and standards, including the Davis-Bacon Act, Independent Contractor rules, and Registered Apprenticeship standards. Su's tenure introduced workforce and training preferences beneficial to skilled workers and contracting firms. Before joining DOL, she served as Secretary for the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency.
Administrator Jessica Looman
Jessica Looman, Administrator of the Wage and Hour Division, is a champion for worker protections and labor rights. With a background in advocacy and leadership roles in government and labor organizations, Looman brings a wealth of experience to her current position. Her tenure as Executive Director of the Minnesota State Building and Construction Trades Council exemplifies her commitment to promoting construction career pathways and ensuring fair treatment for workers. Looman's dedication to enforcing labor laws and advancing economic security for workers underscores her impact in shaping federal labor policy.
Deputy Administrator Kathryn Thomson
Kathryn "Katie" Thompson, appointed Deputy Administrator in June 2023, brings over 30 years of global aviation and transportation law expertise. Formerly FAA Chief of Staff, she provided crucial leadership and oversight on complex aviation policy issues. Prior roles include Director of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Implementation at DOT and VP & Associate General Counsel at Amazon. With significant federal government service, including as DOT General Counsel and Chief Counsel of FAA during the Obama Administration, Katie has shaped national and international transportation policy. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Illinois and a Juris Doctor from the University of Pennsylvania.
House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN-6)
Congressman Tom Emmer, representing Minnesota's Sixth Congressional District, brings a wealth of experience to his legislative work. After a career in law and serving in the Minnesota House of Representatives, Emmer focuses on financial services issues in Congress. As House Majority Whip, he plays a pivotal role in shaping legislative priorities and advancing the interests of his constituents. Emmer's dedication to public service is evident in his long-standing commitment to his community and his advocacy for important issues affecting Minnesotans.
President Sean McGarvey
Sean McGarvey, President of North America's Building Trades Unions (NABTU), is a respected leader in the construction industry. With a career dedicated to improving the economic security and career opportunities of construction workers, McGarvey has led initiatives to expand apprenticeship programs and promote investment in infrastructure. His bipartisan approach to policy and politics has navigated the building trades through challenges and advanced labor standards. McGarvey's commitment to collaboration and advocacy has strengthened NABTU's impact and value to workers, contractors, and communities.
Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN-8)
Pete Stauber, a Duluth native and three-term Representative for Minnesota’s Eighth Congressional District, prioritizes economic growth and community safety. Serving on key House committees, including Transportation and Infrastructure and Natural Resources, Stauber advocates for American energy independence and law enforcement support. With a distinguished career as a St. Louis County Commissioner, Hermantown City Councilor, and former Duluth police officer, his commitment to public service is unwavering. Stauber's dedication to Northeastern Minnesota's prosperity and his advocacy for safer communities are central to his leadership. He resides in Hermantown with his wife Jodi and their six children.
Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE-2)
Congressman Don Bacon's journey from farm life in Illinois to a distinguished military career and now to politics embodies the values of hard work and service. Retired as a Brigadier General after nearly 30 years in the U.S. Air Force, Bacon specialized in electronic warfare, intelligence, and reconnaissance, earning numerous military decorations. Now serving Nebraska's Second Congressional District, he sits on the House Armed Services and Agriculture Committees, advocating for issues such as national security and agriculture policy.
Rep. Donald Norcross (D-NJ-1)
Donald Norcross, a South Jersey native and former electrician, is a staunch advocate for working families. With firsthand experience in labor and economic challenges, he champions initiatives to raise wages, expand education access, and ensure affordable healthcare. As a former union leader, Norcross fought for labor rights and workplace protections. In Congress, he leads efforts to increase the federal minimum wage and improve job training programs. Norcross also focuses on national security and veterans' issues on the House Armed Services Committee. He resides in Camden City with his wife Andrea and has three adult children.
Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-NY-2)
Andrew Garbarino, a Congressman representing New York's Second Congressional District, epitomizes dedication to family and community. With a background in law and service in the New York Assembly, Garbarino advocates for Long Island communities in Congress. His involvement in organizations such as the Sayville Rotary Club and Knights of Columbus reflects his commitment to service above self. Garbarino's work on the House Financial Services, Homeland Security, and Ethics Committees underscores his dedication to addressing critical issues facing his constituents.
Rep. Pat Ryan (D-NY-18)
Congressman Pat Ryan, a fifth-generation Hudson Valley native and former Ulster County Executive, prioritizes defending freedoms and delivering relief for families. A West Point graduate and Iraq War veteran, he advocates for military preparedness and infrastructure improvements. In Congress, he focuses on expanding access to healthcare, supporting law enforcement, and preserving Social Security and Medicare. Ryan resides in Gardiner with his wife and two sons, Theo and Cameron.
Mariah T. Becker
Mariah Becker, Director of Research and Education at the National Coordinating Committee for Multiemployer Plans (NCCMP), brings over 15 years of experience in actuarial consulting. Her expertise lies in evaluating policy proposals to strengthen multiemployer pension plans and analyzing the economic impact of federal policies. Becker's dedication to protecting and strengthening the multiemployer system extends to her frequent speaking engagements on pension topics. She is a member of esteemed professional organizations, including the American Academy of Actuaries and the Conference of Consulting Actuaries.
Kathi Dobson
With over 20 years in the construction industry, Kathi Dobson is a seasoned veteran known for her dedication to safety and industry leadership. As Safety Director at JS Alberici Construction since 1999, she oversees safety protocols for diverse sectors, including automotive, industrial processes, and heavy civil projects. Kathi actively contributes to industry organizations, serving on the board of directors for TAUC (The Association of Union Constructors) and participating in committees for AISC (American Institute of Steel Construction) and ASSP (American Society of Safety Professionals). Her advocacy extends to promoting equitable work conditions and ensuring safe environments for all, as evidenced by her roles in national safety committees and advisory bodies.
Joseph Boddicker
Joe Boddicker, counsel in the Federal & International Tax Group, possesses extensive experience in federal and international tax law. With a background that includes serving as a law clerk in the United States Tax Court and tax counsel for the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, Boddicker offers expertise in corporate, partnership, and energy tax issues. He holds degrees from the American University Washington College of Law and Georgetown University Law Center, distinguishing himself with an LL.M. in taxation. Boddicker's commitment to providing strategic counsel and legislative insight underscores his contributions to his field.
MODERATOR - Rep. Earl Pomeroy (ND-At Large, Ret.)
Earl Pomeroy's distinguished career in public service spans from his tenure as North Dakota's at-large U.S. Representative to his current role at Alston & Bird's Legislative & Public Policy Group. With a background in financial regulation and legislative leadership, Pomeroy brings strategic insight to his advocacy work. His experience as a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee and chair of the Social Security Subcommittee underscores his expertise in pension and retirement security issues. Pomeroy's commitment to pro bono work and his involvement in organizations like the National Job Corps Association reflect his dedication to public service and advocacy for important social and economic issues.
*Subject to change due to speaker availability
WHEN?
From Monday, May 6, through Wednesday, May8.
WHERE?
Royal Sonesta Washington DC Capitol Hill
20 Massachusetts Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20001
(866) 238-4218