Letter from the Editor
January 2026 Edition
As we look ahead to the year before us, there’s a strong sense of momentum and optimism across our HR community. This year promises meaningful opportunities to connect, collaborate, and continue building the knowledge and relationships that strengthen our organizations and our profession. Whether you’re focused on compliance, leadership development, workforce strategy, or culture, the months ahead offer something for everyone—and plenty of chances to learn together.
January kicks off with the SHRM Florida Legislative Conference in Tallahassee where HR professionals from across the state will come together to stay informed on legislative priorities and employment law updates that directly impact our workplaces. This conference is always a powerful reminder of the role HR plays in advocacy and compliance, and it sets the tone for an engaged and informed year ahead.
In June, we’ll gather in Orlando for the SHRM26 Annual Conference & Expo, one of the most anticipated events of the year. With its wide range of educational sessions, nationally recognized speakers, and expansive networking opportunities, this conference offers fresh ideas and practical tools that HR professionals can bring back to their organizations immediately. It’s an energizing experience that reinforces the value of continuous learning and professional growth.
August brings us together again at the 2026 HR Florida Conference & Expo Brought to you by SHRM Florida, where the focus turns to issues and innovations most relevant to Florida employers. This conference highlights the strength of our statewide HR community and provides a collaborative environment to share best practices, success stories, and solutions to common challenges. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and expand professional networks.
We’ll round out the year in October with our annual Leadership Conference, an event dedicated to developing the skills and mindsets of our volunteer leaders. As SHRM Florida continues to navigate change, this conference emphasizes resilience, strategic thinking, and people-centered leadership—critical capabilities for HR and business leaders alike.
Lastly, look for our webinar series where we partner with leaders across the country to bring you compelling and informative trainings to enhance your business acumen and people skills. This is a new program we are launching to drive education and community to our stakeholders across the state.
We encourage you to take advantage of these opportunities, engage with your peers, and invest in your own professional development. Here’s to a year of shared growth, meaningful connections, and continued impact across our HR community.
Warm regards,
Alan Bernstein, SHRM-SCP
Council Secretary, SHRM Florida State Council
Alan serves on the Executive Committee of SHRM Florida State Council as Council Secretary. He is a Board Member of LEAD Brevard, past president of the Space Coast Human Resources Association, and teaches the HR Certification preparation class for SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP at Eastern Florida State College. Additionally, he has been voted Best Consultant on the Space Coast, HR Florida Volunteer of the Year, and Melbourne Regional Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Year. Alan is active with his local community and provides free resume writing and job search seminars to local non-profits virtually and in-person.