The Union County Board of County Commissioners are proud to announce the first Union County WORKS Business Summit on September 12, 2023 at 10:00 a.m., at Kean University’s Liberty Hall Academic Building, located at 1003 Morris Avenue in Union. As part of Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados’ 2023 Chairman’s theme of “Building a Stronger Union County,” Union County has launched the “Empowering Our Businesses” initiative, aiming to strengthen relationships between our Union County American Job Center and local businesses, providing even greater opportunities for employers and employees alike.
“Hosting this event marks a significant stride in our efforts to build a stronger Union County,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “I take great pride in introducing the first-ever Union County WORKS Business Summit, a testament to our commitment to cultivating the growth of local businesses and further strengthening the bonds between our Union County American Job Center and the business community. Together, we are continuing on a path towards a thriving business environment in Union County, and I encourage all businesses to join us on September 12th, as we work to empower both our businesses and Union County.”
The Union County WORKS Business Summit is designed to empower businesses with valuable insights, expert advice, and unmatched resources. It aims to highlight Union County’s comprehensive list of available services and resources, including Workforce Information and Data Analysis, On-the Job-Training, Employer Support Services, Incumbent Worker Training, Recruitment Assistance, Training Services, and Customized Training. Participating businesses will receive access to up to $10,000 in on-the-job training costs per employee, up to 50% reimbursement for incumbent employee training, and free professional recruitment services.
Businesses can anticipate insights into targeted demographic data, targeted development areas, and strategic approaches for creating a thriving business environment in Union County.
Guests will also be able to listen to expert panelists offer valuable guidance for businesses of all sizes. These panelists include:
- Robert Croom – A 19-year employee of Union County, Robert’s journey began within Union County’s public service landscape and soon saw himself supervising the Department of Social Services. In 2022, Robert became Division Director of the Union County American Job Center, where he has shown an unwavering dedication to nurturing mutually beneficial partnerships between businesses and job seekers throughout the county.
- Antonio Rivera – Antonio currently serves as the Director of the Union County Workforce Development Board. His commitment to workforce development is evident through his membership in significant commissions and boards, including the Garden State Employment & Training Commission, the New Jersey Department of Labor’s Credential Review Board, and the Port Authority of NY & NJ’s Council on Port Performance, Workforce Development Implementation Team.
- Adam Farrah – As president of the Union County Economic Development Corporation, Adam spearheads yearly fundraising efforts through donations, foundation backing, and extended state and federal contracts. Before his role as president, Adam began his tenure in the UCEDC as Director of Financial Programs, and later was appointed Senior Vice President for 22 years, overseeing financial programs as well as government procurement assistance and business development divisions.
- Carlos Medina – As an accomplished professional with a background in mapping and engineering, Carlos has significantly expanded revenues and diversified services at Robinson Aerial, Inc., and has also played key roles in the media and as the President and CEO of the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey. Additionally, he co-founded the Hispanic Chamber Fund and serves as a Corporate Board Member of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ, showcasing his diverse and impactful contributions in various fields.
- Hilary McCarron – Hilary is the manager of Port Planning & Policy in the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s Port Department. Under her leadership, the workforce committee collaborates with Port businesses and stakeholders to host events that raise awareness about the importance of the Port of NY & NJ and the range of well-paying local jobs it offers in Union, Essex, Hudson, Richmond, and Kings counties.
- Mimi Nkwepo – In her role as National Director/Head of Talent Acquisition Diversity & Inclusion at Coach USA, Dr. Nkwepo oversees all recruiting activities and works to ensure that the company attracts and hires employees of the highest caliber that fit within Coach USA’s unique corporate culture. Prior to joining Coach USA, she held positions of increasing responsibilities at companies such as Atrium Staffing, Johnson & Johnson, Merck KGA, and PSEG.
Anyone interested in registering should visit www.ucnj.org/works23 to secure their spot. For more information, please contact Carolina Marin by phone at 908-380-6237 or via email at astrid.marin@ucnj.org.