Annual Conference Human Resources

2024 Annual Conference: Human Resources




Beyond Automation: The Future of HR in the Age of AI

Dr. Serena Huang, International Keynote Speaker, Corporate Trainer, and Influencer


See highlights from Serena’s session in the above video.



Driving Digital HR Innovation: Centralizing Functions for Enhanced Technology Solutions

Bethany Keller, Senior Vice President, Human Resources, Kohl’s Inc.


See highlights from Bethany’s session in the above video.



Adapt to Thrive: Building Change-Ready Organizations and Leaders

Tessa G. Misiaszek, PhD, Head of Research, Korn Ferry Institute


See highlights from Tessa’s session in the above video.



Future of Talent: Empowering the New Talent Pipeline with GenAI and Apprenticeships

Betsy Clough, Chief Human Resources Officer, UW Health


See highlights from Betsy’s session in the above video.

Human Resources Track Sponsor


Interested in sponsoring our Human Resources track in 2025? Contact us to learn more.

Steering Committee

Steering Committee members provide guidance on track content, topic suggestions, and speaker selection. Thank you to the 2024 Human Resources Track Steering Committee:

Tanya Hubanks
Track Host
SHRM-SCP, Director, Center for Strategic Human Resources, Wisconsin School of Business

Rebeca Lopez
Labor & Employment Attorney, Godfrey & Kahn, S.C.

Patty Glines-Kotecki
PhD, SPHR, CPT
Senior HR Director, Fiskars Americas

Julie Rader
VP Human Resources, Fortune Brands Innovations

Practice Director

Doug Barton

Position title: Director

Email: doug.barton@uwebc.wisc.edu

As Director of the UWEBC, Doug Barton provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for this premier university-industry partnership involving more than 80 companies across diverse industries. Doug manages UWEBC staff, including practice directors and shared-services teams in event and member services, marketing, communications, and sales. He ensures the high-quality delivery and continuous improvement of UWEBC’s offerings, including peer-to-peer learning forums and advisory services designed to advance thought leadership, innovative business strategies, and emerging technologies.

Doug plays a pivotal role in establishing and nurturing relationships with member companies. He coordinates strategic initiatives aimed at sustainable growth and enhanced UW impact on Wisconsin industry under the Wisconsin Idea. Additionally, he leads the UWEBC Advisory Board and collaborates closely with industry and corporate relations professionals and executive and professional development programs across the UW-Madison campus.

With over 30 years of experience, Doug brings extensive expertise from mission-driven and values-rich organizations, including senior leadership roles at UBIX.AI and IBM. He is an accomplished speaker, having presented globally on design thinking, entrepreneurship, disruptive technology, AI, and innovation.

Doug earned his BA from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and his MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.