In the current work environment HR professionals are being asked to do more and more. With many HR professionals not starting their career in HR how does one learn the competencies necessary to become a successful HR practitioner? Topics covered will include how and why you need to get a seat at the table and what HR metrics you need to know and how to calculate them. The importance of strategic thinking and what that looks like in your current role will be discussed. The importance of a professional image in your workplace and in the community will be discussed and how to get it. The importance of networking and obtaining mentors to advancing your career as well as the importance of continuing education and certification. We will also discuss upcoming workplace realities to include new healthcare reform and its potential impacts and trends predicted for HR in 2012 and beyond.

Kara Hunt, SPHR is a Human Resource Consultant  and provides  HR Consulting to organizations in various industries including manufacturing, insurance, non-profits, and private-sector organizations. Kara earned her Bachelors in Science degree in Biology and Psychology with a minor in Chemistry from Wichita State University where she is currently working on her Masters in Education in Counseling.  Kara received her Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) in 2007.

Her career has included over 14 years of human resource  experience in  corporate restaurant and  retail, media, banking, education, and employment industries. She has been active in Wichita SHRM since 2006 serving as the Foundation Director, VP of Membership, President-Elect, President, and served as the first Wichita SHRM Scholarship Chair. Kara served as the 2011 KS SHRM Conference Co-Chair and is currently serving as the KS SHRM District Director for Wichita and Winfield. Kara was recognized by the Wichita Business Journal in 2009 as one of its 40 Under 40 and received the Wichita SHRM HR Professional of the Year award in 2010.  Kara is  very active in the community and is a member of the Wichita Downtown Rotary Club, has been a Big Sister through Big Brothers and Sisters since 2007, serves on the HR Advisory panel for Rainbows United, serves as a  Board of Director for the Wichita Symphony Orchestra, is a Board of Director for Laughing Feet, serves on the Episcopal Social Services Marketing Committee, and is a United Way Allocation volunteer.