PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
Are you ready to reshape the future of workforce development?
Join RI SHRM and a panel of statewide leaders for a dynamic virtual discussion on how apprenticeship programs are transforming industries, building career pathways, and driving economic growth in Rhode Island.
In this interactive webinar, you’ll gain insights into:
- How the State of Rhode Island is actively investing in and expanding new, innovative apprenticeship models to meet evolving workforce needs
- The critical role and impact of public-private partnerships in expanding access, equity, and reach across diverse industries and communities
- Step-by-step guidance on how to create, register, and sustain an apprenticeship program
- An apprentice’s first-hand experience on how the program is shaping their career path
- Financial incentives and support available to employers at every stage
Moderated by Michelle Jacques, RI SHRM Workforce Development Committee. Hear from leaders who are shaping the future:
- Matthew Weldon: Director, Department of Labor & Training
- Andrew Cortés: President & CEO, Building Futures RI
- Olivia Byron: Director, Employer Workforce Programs-Governor’s Workforce Board
- Laura Benitez, Manager, Human Resources-Tiffany & Co., Bench Jeweler Apprenticeship
- Merri Rego, Director, Human Resources-DiPrete Engineering, Survey Technician Apprenticeship
- Paul Thalmann, Apprentice – DiPrete Engineering
This program has been submitted for HRCI and SHRM credits.
MEET OUR MODERATOR:
Michelle Jacques
RI SHRM Workforce Development Committee Advisor
Michelle Jacques is a senior human resources leader with a distinguished career spanning manufacturing, financial services, and supply chain, recognized for driving workforce transformation, shaping high-performance cultures, and aligning people strategies with business growth. She began her career in manufacturing, building and scaling the HR function for a zinc die-casting and plastics injection molding company, and most recently served as Head of Human Resources for jewelry manufacturing at Tiffany & Co., where she led a global HR team in talent management, workforce planning, organizational effectiveness, leadership development, and DEIB initiatives. An executive coach with an MBA from Northeastern University and SPHR certification, Michelle is a trusted advisor to executive teams and a catalyst for organizational design and talent optimization, blending business acumen with a people-first approach. Deeply committed to community impact, she serves on the RI SHRM Workforce Development Committee and champions initiatives that expand access to career opportunities, while outside of work she is an avid cyclist and advocate for programs that connect corporate purpose with community well-being.
This program has been submitted for HRCI and SHRM credits.
MEET OUR SPEAKERS:
Laura Benitez
Manager, Human Resources
Tiffany & Co., Bench Jeweler Apprenticeship
Laura Benitez is a seasoned Human Resources leader with over 15 years of experience advancing strategic initiatives in Talent Management, Learning & Development, Organizational Culture, and Employee Relations. As HR Business Partner Manager at Tiffany & Co., she is recognized for creating inclusive, high-performing workplaces that drive both individual and organizational success. Holding a Law degree and an MBA, along with SPHR and ATD Certified Master Trainer credentials, Laura brings a unique blend of legal expertise, business insight, and HR excellence to her work. A dedicated mentor and advocate for inclusive leadership, she is committed to aligning people strategies with business goals while fostering cultures of engagement, accountability, and growth.
Olivia Byron
Director, Employer Workforce Programs
Governor’s Workforce Board
Olivia Byron has served with the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training since 2013, focusing on building strong partnerships with the state’s business community. She currently directs Employer Workforce Programs at the Governor’s Workforce Board, where she oversees the administration of Small Grant Programs that support employer-driven workforce initiatives. A graduate of the University of Rhode Island with a degree in Human Development and Family Studies and a minor in Sociology, Olivia began her career in human services before transitioning to workforce development. Originally from New Jersey, she has made Rhode Island her home, bringing a collaborative, well-rounded perspective to advancing economic and workforce opportunities across the state.
Andrew Cortés
President & CEO
Building Futures RI
Andrew L. Cortés is the founder and Executive Director of Building Futures, established in 2007 to expand registered apprenticeship and create family-sustaining career pathways for low-income Rhode Islanders. Under his leadership, the organization has become nationally recognized for best practices in pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship utilization and, through the Apprenticeship Rhode Island initiative, has expanded opportunities across healthcare, IT, advanced manufacturing, marine trades, and more. Appointed by two U.S. Secretaries of Labor, Andrew served on the Federal Advisory Committee on Apprenticeship from 2010–2018, including three years as chair, helping shape national workforce policy and equity initiatives. Deeply engaged in Rhode Island’s workforce, housing, and civic sectors, he has held leadership roles on the RI Apprenticeship Council, RI Housing, workforce development boards, and multiple nonprofit boards. A lifelong carpenter and union member since age 17, Andrew continues to advance economic opportunity and equity through service on numerous advisory and community boards.
Merri Rego, SHRM-C
Director, Human Resources
DiPrete Engineering
Survey Technician | Apprenticeship Advisor
Merri Rego, SHRM-CP, is a dynamic HR leader with over a decade of experience in HR leadership, talent acquisition, and staffing, recognized for balancing business needs with a people-first approach. As Director of Human Resources at DiPrete Engineering, she focuses on building strong teams, driving organizational growth, and fostering a culture where people thrive. Beyond her role, she serves as Lead Organizer of DisruptHR Rhode Island 3.0, an energetic event series that blends bold ideas with fresh perspectives on the future of work. A proud Rhode Island SHRM member and Rhode Island College graduate, Merri is passionate about making connections, sparking ideas, and turning workplace challenges into opportunities for growth.
Paul (P.J.) Thalmann
Apprentice
DiPrete Engineering
Paul (P.J.) Thalmann is a Surveying Technician at DiPrete Engineering and the company’s first apprentice in its Certified Survey Technician apprenticeship program. With experience in construction layout, boundary surveys, FEMA elevation certificates, and road design, he supports teams with precision and technical expertise across both field and office environments. Paul previously worked with Foster Survey Company and Echo Associates and is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Surveying Engineering at the University of Maine, building on his Associate’s in Business Science from CCRI. He also holds an OSHA 10-Hour certification, reflecting his commitment to safety and quality in every project.
Matthew Weldon
Director,
Rhode Island Department of Labor & Training
Matt has served as Director of the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training since April 2021, bringing 25 years of experience across all three branches of state government. A graduate of the University of Rhode Island with a B.A. in Political Science, he leads the Department in delivering workforce development, income support, and worker protections while promoting economic opportunity for both employees and employers. Since becoming Director, he has championed greater access to DLT services with a focus on efficiency, effectiveness, and equity for all Rhode Islanders.
Keep the conversation going, join us at our upcoming programs.
RI SHRM PROGRAMS
.png)
Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Stef Nelson at rishrmsponsorship@gmail.com.
