Partnering with your Center for Careers in Government (CCG)
Tatianna Diaz, Human Resources Director, City of Albany
Adam Rossi, NYS Department of Civil Service Capital Region CCG

This session introduces the Centers for Careers in Government (CCGs), a new initiative aimed at connecting jobseekers with rewarding careers in State and local government. Learn how CCGs engage with local communities, organizations, and educational institutions to promote public sector employment through outreach, workshops, and informational sessions. Discover how these centers are supporting recruitment efforts for critical hard-to-fill positions and addressing workforce shortages in public service across New York State. Join us to explore the vital role of CCGs in building a stronger public sector workforce and connecting talent with opportunity.

Civil Service Speed Leading
Anthony Rotundo, Rashawn King, Doug Bartels, and Richard Lonergan,
Municipal Services Division NYS Department of Civil Service

Are you new to the world of civil service administration with less than a year on the job? This session is designed just for you! Join staff from the Municipal Services Division (MSD) for a comprehensive crash course on your role and responsibilities in civil service administration. Gain essential knowledge, practical tools, and insights to help you navigate your position with confidence and set a solid foundation for your career in public service.

Civil Service Unplugged: Tackling Today’s Challenges Together
Kerry Brennan, Director of Human Resources, Yates County
John Charon, Director of Personnel, Glen Cove
Paul Eldridge, Personnel Officer, Putman County
Brian Jweid, Director of Civil Service Administration, Oneida County
Mike Schwabe, Municipal Services Division NYS Department of Civil Service
Nicole Yaggle, Personnel Officer, Montgomery County

This session is for experienced civil service administrators. Join this dynamic and interactive roundtable session where civil service professionals and a panel of experts come together to discuss pressing issues, share experiences, and brainstorm solutions. This open mic-style format encourages participants to voice challenges, exchange ideas, and explore innovative approaches to navigating the complexities of civil service administration. Don’t miss this opportunity to collaborate, learn, and contribute to shaping the future of public service.

Today’s Labor Legal Topics: A Mash-Up
Earl T. Redding and Matthew P. Ryan, Roemer Wallens Gold & Mineaux, LLP

This presentation will cover a wide-ranging area of legal and non-legal issues facing practitioners and HR experts in the field of public sector labor relations. Topics will include recreational marijuana, AI, police certification issues where separation for cause is in play, a legislative update regarding proposed legislation that will impact the employer-employee relationship, recent case law from courts and PERB also impacting the employer-employee relationship, and current trends in collective bargaining. This presentation will be interactive and all questions are encouraged and welcomed.

AI-Powered HR: A Step-by-Step Guide to Transforming HR Processes with AI
Chris Dancy, CMFD Consulting

In a world where HR departments are stretched thin, artificial intelligence isn’t just a tool—it’s a force multiplier. Join Chris Dancy, the World’s Most Connected Person, as he shares practical steps HR professionals can take to integrate AI into their workflows. From revolutionizing employee feedback systems in Montgomery County to automating HR document management and multilingual onboarding in Chautauqua County, this session will break down real-world applications of AI for HR

Supporting Mental Health in the Workplace:
HR’s Role in Creating a Healthy Environment
Amy Rodak, Assistant Commissioner and Deputy Director of Human Resources at the New York State Office of Mental Health
Kim Chapman, Assistant Director at the New York State Office of Mental Health

Workplace mental health concerns are at the forefront of discussions for HR professionals nationwide. Burnout, exhaustion, and hopelessness are affecting more employees than ever before. In this session, we will explore how HR can effectively recognize and respond to mental health issues in the workplace. Learn strategies for reducing stigma, providing support, and fostering a mental health-friendly environment. Together, we’ll discuss practical steps HR can take to promote well-being and create a healthier, more productive workplace for all employees.

Ethics & Integrity in Public Service –
Navigating conflicts of interest and Ethical Dilemmas
Earl T. Redding and Matthew P. Ryan, Roemer Wallens Gold & Mineaux, LLP

Public service demands the highest standards of ethics and integrity, particularly for personnel and civil service officers who play a critical role in local government operations. This course explores ethical principles, legal requirements, and best practices for identifying and managing conflicts of interest in civil service administration. Participants will examine real-world case studies, engage in scenario-based discussions, and gain practical strategies to uphold transparency, accountability, and public trust. Topics include New York State ethics laws, financial disclosures, nepotism, confidentiality, and handling ethical dilemmas in hiring, promotions, and labor relations.

Fire Districts: What are they? Your responsibilities for civil service administration.
Mike Schwabe, Jason Laird, Elena O’Kane, and Dominick Caccamo
Municipal Services Division NYS Dept of Civil Service

This session will provide an overview of the distinctions between types of fire districts, the use of volunteers in fire districts and will also include a discussion of the civil service responsibilities for fire districts.

Dealing Effectively with Difficult Conversations
Deborah Cabral, PCC Founder/President & CEO, DC Efficiency Consulting

In this session, you’ll learn an effective model for managing and resolving conflict. Discover the difference between productive and destructive behaviors during conflict and gain tools to better manage your reactions. Through an interactive role-play exercise, you’ll practice handling difficult conversations to achieve better outcomes. As a bonus, this method can help strengthen relationships and rebuild connections. By the end of the session, you’ll leave with the skills and confidence to navigate challenging conversations and achieve positive results.

Small Civil Service Agency Challenges
John Mancini, Counsel, New York Conference of Mayors (NYCOM)
Jackie DeCicco, Ulster County Deputy Personnel Director / Former employee of the City of Kingston Commission
Janna Shillinglaw and McKenzie Rizzo, Municipal Services Division, NYS Department of Civil Service
Carol Ratigan, City of Watervliet

This session invites city civil service agencies to discuss common challenges and brainstorm practical solutions. Learn how the New York Conference of Mayors (NYCOM) can support your city civil service agency and discover valuable resources available to cities and villages. Whether you’re dealing with staffing shortages, budget constraints, or other local smatters, this interactive discussion will provide insights and strategies to help navigate these issues. Join us for this collaborative session designed to strengthen local governance.