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Previous Events in 2024

Business EXPO

Thursday, September 12th

Warinanco Sports Center

On September 14, 2024, Union County Means Business proudly brought back its Expo at the Warinanco Sports Center, marking the first Expo since the pandemic. The event drew almost 100 vendors and hundreds of attendees from across Union County, creating a vibrant atmosphere of networking and collaboration.

Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, along with Commissioner Al Mirabella, Commissioner Sergio Granados, and Commissioner Rebecca L. Williams, were in attendance, reinforcing their commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs and established business owners. The Expo provided a platform for businesses to showcase their products and services while also offering valuable resources such as funding opportunities and support networks.

Attendees enjoyed a day filled with informative sessions and extensive networking opportunities. The Expo not only connected local businesses but also fostered a sense of community among entrepreneurs, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defines Union County.

As the Expo came to a close, the overwhelming sentiment among participants was one of gratitude for the opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together. Union County Means Business continues to play a crucial role in supporting economic development, providing essential resources and opportunities for businesses to flourish in Union County.

For more information about the event or future initiatives, please contact Jeff Brooks, Union County Means Business, at 908-659-7412 or via email at Jeffrey.brooks@ucnj.org.

AI Unleashed

Networking Breakfast & Panel Discussion

Tuesday, May 21st
Kean University STEM Building in Union

Drew Thompson

Drew Thompson, the founder of Consult Drew, is a dynamic figure in AI consulting, known for his strategic humor and deep expertise.

He excels at making complex AI concepts engaging and memorable, making his presentations a hit with audiences eager for both enlightenment and entertainment.

At Consult Drew, he focuses on weaving AI into business strategies, positioning him as a trusted advisor for companies aiming to harness technology for growth.

Latisha Gaither

Latisha Gaither, an MBA graduate from Nova Southeastern University, brings a wealth of experience in technology and leadership to the “AI Unleashed” panel.

Her tenure as an Enterprise Account Executive at Google Cloud and as an Account Manager at Cisco showcased her ability to leverage AI and cloud technologies to enhance business outcomes.

With a strong background in coaching and talent management, Latisha excels in empowering individuals and organizations to navigate the challenges of AI integration.

Hans Fleurival

Hans Fleurival, a Syracuse University graduate, brings over 20 years of experience in selling cybersecurity and cloud-based solutions to various industries. As a Strategic ISV Sales Specialist at Google Cloud, he has demonstrated a profound understanding of cyber security, software-defined infrastructure, and mobile technology.

His recent completion of the Google Cloud – Introduction to Generative AI Certification further solidifies his expertise in leveraging AI technologies. Hans’ skills in managing complex sales cycles and channel development make him well-equipped to discuss the practical applications of AI in business

Dr. David Joiner

Dr. David Joiner is a distinguished educator and researcher with a Ph.D. in Physics and Philosophy from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

As a full-time professor at Kean University, he has dedicated over two decades to teaching classes in Physics, Applied Math, and High Performance Computing, while also conducting research in astrophysics and computational science education.

His recent appearance on Kean’s Urban Impact Podcast, where he discussed “Why Artificial Intelligence is flawed,” highlights his critical perspective on AI and its implications.

On May 21st, the Union County Means Business initiative, presented by the Union County Board of County Commissioners, hosted the much-anticipated “AI Unleashed” event. The event took place in a packed room, bringing together business owners, managers, and entrepreneurs from across Union County to explore the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the business world.

The event featured an esteemed panel of speakers, including Drew Thompson, the founder of Consult Drew, renowned for his strategic humor and deep expertise in AI consulting; Latisha Gaither, an MBA graduate from Nova Southeastern University and a seasoned Enterprise Account Executive at Google Cloud; Hans Fleurival, a Strategic ISV Sales Specialist at Google Cloud; and Dr. David Joiner, a distinguished educator and researcher, and full-time professor at Kean University with a Ph.D. in Physics and Philosophy from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

Union County Vice Chairwoman Lourdes Leon welcomed attendees with a message of connectivity and opportunity, emphasizing the event’s role in fostering a collaborative environment for Union County’s business community.

The “AI Unleashed” event delved into the vast potential of AI technologies in business, providing insights into the opportunities and challenges they present. The panelists shared their diverse experiences and perspectives, discussing how AI can be leveraged to drive innovation, efficiency, and growth in various business sectors.

Attendees were treated to a complimentary breakfast, networking opportunities, and an engaging panel discussion that provided valuable insights into AI’s role in the future of business. The event concluded with a dynamic Q&A session, allowing participants to interact with the panelists and gain deeper understanding of the topics discussed.

Union County Means Business continues to support economic growth and business development in Union County, New Jersey, through events like “AI Unleashed,” which provide valuable resources, information, and opportunities for businesses to thrive and contribute to the local economy.

For more information, please contact Jeff Brooks, Union County Means Business, at 908-659-7412 or by email at Jeffrey.brooks@ucnj.org

Previous Events in 2023

Future of Work Networking Breakfast and Panel Discussion – May 10, 2023

May 10th, 2023 “The Future of Work” panel discussion took place on Wednesday at Kean University’s Donald R. Conklin Conference Center, organized by Union County Means Business. The event, proudly hosted by the Union County Board of County Commissioners, aimed to bring together the local community and foster a thought-provoking conversation about the changing landscape of work. Moderated by Erich Peter, Executive Vice President of UCEDC, the panel consisted of Jane E. Allerman-Rey, President and COO of Spencer Savings Bank; Perle Almeida, Deputy Director of the Union County American Job Center; Sal Garcia, Founder and Principal of MAS, Real Estate and Urban redevelopment company; and Shakira Johnson, founder and owner of John PR and Events.

The panelists, comprising Union County business owners and business resource experts, shared their insights and perspectives on various topics related to the future of work. They delved into critical areas such as finding quality employees, implementing strategies to lower fringe benefit costs, and adapting to the evolving work environment, which included the emerging trend of hybrid working and work-life balance.

Throughout the event, attendees gained valuable insights and practical strategies to navigate the challenges and opportunities brought about by the changing nature of work. The engaging discourse and interaction with the panelists allowed participants to draw from their unique experiences and expertise, empowering them to better plan for the future of work in their own professional endeavors.

Overall, “The Future of Work” panel, provided a platform for the local community to come together and engage in a stimulating conversation about the evolving work landscape. The event successfully equipped attendees with valuable insights and practical strategies to embrace the changes and make informed decisions in their professional journeys.

Previous Events in 2022

Union County Means Business Networking Breakfast June 28, 2022

June 28, 2022 Union County Means Business held its networking breakfast event at Kean University’s Donald R. Conklin Conference Center. This was a first in a series of Union County Means Business events scheduled for 2022. This event offered local businesses an opportunity to network with other business leaders and expand their customer base. The keynote speaker was Kean University President Lamont Repollet, Ed.D.

Union County Board of County Commissioners Chair Rebecca Williams welcomed event attendees and praised the leadership of President Dr. Repollet during the pandemic, citing the successful collaboration of the County and Kean University in establishing a Covid-19 Testing Lab on the Kean University Campus. Furthermore, Chair Williams revealed that The County of Union will be receiving recognition at the National Association of Counties (NACo) Convention with the 2022 NACo Achievement Award for Covid-19 Testing Lab Partnership. The event was well attended with over 70 individuals participating.

Union County Means Business – The Future of Work – Lunch & Learn October 4th, 2022

On October 4th, 2022 Union County Means Business teamed up with its respected partners to host a panel at Kean University’s Donald R. Conklin Conference Center which highlighted six Union County businesses that were successful coming out the Covid-19 pandemic. The event was titled “The Future of Work: Panel on adapting business in the event of an economic emergency” as a part of Union County Means Business Lunch & Learn series. The panel masterfully offered insight on the day to

day innerworkings and the challenges navigated by businesses during the pandemic as well as provided the unique strategies they implemented. The event was hosted by County Commissioner Rebecca Williams and moderated by NJSBDC’s Regional Director Rafael Mata.

The panel consisted of 6 business owners throughout Union County. The panelists were Charlotte Diakite of A3 Contracting, Mike Kelly of Garden State Strength and Fitness., Gladys Vonglahn of Gladys Cleaning Service LLC, Koron Barley of Headquarterz Hair Studio, Lee Frankel of Cross roads – Restaurant, Bar & Music Venue and lastly Kevin Castor of Melao’s Cafe & Creamery.