2026 STAFFING SUMMIT
July 20 - 22, 2026  ·  The Holiday Inn By the Bay
The 2026 Staffing Summit, presented by Pabian Law & Seasonal Connect, is our preeminent event of the year, uniting employers from across the U.S. and offering an unparalleled platform for collaboration and growth.  Renowned national speakers headline the Summit, sharing invaluable insights, strategies, and innovative ideas reshaping the hospitality landscape.  From interactive activities to incredible educational sessions to thought-provoking panel discussions, the Summit is designed to inspire and empower attendees, equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate challenges and seize opportunities in an ever-evolving market.  Join us July 20-22, 2026, at The Holiday Inn by The Bay, in Portland, Maine for this incredible event!
Agenda
Monday, July 20
9:00 AM
9:00 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Join Attorney Keith Pabian for a session on the basics of the H-2B visa program.
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Learn how to form recruiting partnerships that extend your hiring pipeline beyond your busy season—and how to get leadership on board.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Join us for lunch! Open to Pre-Conference Workshops and Main Conference attendees.
1:00 PM - 1:15 PM
1:00 PM - 1:15 PM
Welcome
1:15 PM - 2:00 PM
1:15 PM - 2:00 PM
Back by popular demand for 2026, this dynamic and interactive session offers a fresh look at the state of the hospitality industry.
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Back by popular demand!
3:30 PM - 3:45 PM
3:30 PM - 3:45 PM
3:45 PM - 4:15 PM
3:45 PM - 4:15 PM
Join Ashley McNeil of the American Hotel & Lodging Association, for an incredible session about the legislative issues and challenges facing the hospitality industry and seasonal world.
4:15 PM - 4:45 PM
4:15 PM - 4:45 PM
While national trends shape the direction of the hospitality industry, local realities often tell the most powerful stories.
4:45 PM - 6:30 PM
4:45 PM - 6:30 PM
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Join us for cocktails & a welcome reception at the Porthole where you can unwind, get to know one another and experience Portland's wharf!
Tuesday, July 21
8:00 AM
8:00 AM
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Sponsored by Conn Maciel Carey LLP
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Back by popular demand!
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:45 AM - 12:00 PM
10:45 AM - 12:00 PM
Seasonal workforces are changing, and so are their expectations. Gen Z is entering the workforce with a clear set of expectations: purpose-driven work, supportive leadership, and cultures that prioritize well-being.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Sponsored by The JTP Agency
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Attorney Keith Pabian is back with new immigration updates! Hear about H-2B visas and year-round immigration including TN visas, O-1 visas, H-1B visas, and green card applications.
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Join us for our vendor expo, employer showcase & ideas fair along with coffee, snacks and networking.
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Join Matchmaker Lynda Adams of Cara Matchmaking & Jacqueline Nichols
4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Please enjoy free time before the 6PM Arrival for the boat.
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Please join us promptly at 6PM to board the Casablanca Boat located at 20 Custom House Wharf, Portland, Maine 04101
7:15 PM - 9:00 PM
7:15 PM - 9:00 PM
Set sail aboard the Casablanca, an 85-foot double decker charter boat, where we will enjoy the scenic beauty of Casco Bay!
9:00 PM
9:00 PM
Thank you for joining us! We'll see you tomorrow!
Wednesday, July 22
8:00 AM
8:00 AM
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
This session explores strategies for identifying, developing, and retaining emerging talent within seasonal and year-round teams.
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Are you getting the best results from your H-2B recruiters?
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Join us for our vendor expo, employer showcase & ideas fair along with coffee, snacks and networking.
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
In this inspiring and eye-opening panel, former H-2B and J-1 workers who are now employers share their personal journeys, reflections, and lessons.
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
From planning your itinerary and setting goals to coordinating with host properties and engaging with potential staff, this session will walk through the full lifecycle of a successful trip.
12:00 PM
12:00 PM
Thank you for making 2026 such a great year! We'll see you in 2027!
Speakers

Jacqueline Nichols

Jacqueline Nichols built and led a successful professional matchmaking agency for 15 years, ultimately transitioning the company to new ownership.

Ashley McNeil

Ashley has over a decade of experience in political strategy, fundraising, coalition building and nonprofit leadership.

Amy Landers

Amy is the Executive Director of the Lakes Region Tourism Association.

Kathryn Ference

Kathryn Ference is the Director of Workforce Development for the Maine Tourism Association, a non-profit trade association that represents the hospitality and tourism industry in Maine.

LeAnne Lagasse

LeAnne Lagasse is an HR consultant and keynote speaker who helps leaders and organizations improve their employee engagement and retention and develop their people managers.

Lynda Adams

Lynda Adams is a professional matchmaker, certified health and relationship coach, and the owner of Cara Matchmaking, based in Falmouth, Maine.

David Chag

David Chag began his private club management career working thirteen years at Houston Country Club.

Keziah Aberilla

Born and raised in the Philippines, KC began her journey as a seasonal worker, gaining experience through both the J-1 and H-2B programs.

Carleen Anderson-Lalor

Carleen is a dynamic hospitality executive with over 15 years of experience leading teams and elevating guest experience across the industry.

David Jurcak

David Jurcak, an award-winning hospitality leader with 35 years of industry experience, is in his fifth season as president of Grand Hotel.

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Sponsors
LOCATION
The Holiday Inn By the Bay, 88 Spring Street, Portland, ME 04101
Location: The Holiday Inn By the Bay, 88 Spring Street, Portland, ME 04101