session

Workforce Under Pressure: Rethinking Retention & Recruiting in Restoration

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May 19, 2026 @ 10:45 am - 11:30 am

  • Wekiwa 7
  • Wekiwa 7

About Session

Labor pressure isn’t temporary, it’s structural. In an industry defined by urgency and high expectations, recruiting faster won’t solve the problem if the talent pipeline itself is weak.

This panel brings together restoration HR leaders and an academic expert who helped rebuild the concrete industry’s workforce to explore what it truly takes to strengthen and sustain a talent pool under pressure. From long-term pipeline development and employer positioning to practical hiring systems and retention strategies that actually work in the field, panelists will share both strategic perspective and actionable insights.

Speakers

Kristy Sifford

Kristy Sifford

Founder, Wylander
Dr. Jake Avila

Dr. Jake Avila

Associate Professor of Construction Management, Middle Tennessee State University
Lisa Lavender

Lisa Lavender

CEO, Lever360