A Field Guide to NACE 2023 Conference & Expo

This year's National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) In-person Conference + Expo promises to be a stock with new technologies & products, bringing together professionals from the recruitment industry.

To ensure you make the most of this enriching experience, the Rakuna team has curated a comprehensive guide, shedding light on the emerging trends & technologies set to change how we approach talent acquisition.

Join us as we delve into the highlights that await at NACE23 and embrace the limitless possibilities that lie ahead!

Exhibition Events - Meet Rakuna and Other Vendors at Nace 2023

The post-COVID recruitment landscape continues to evolve, posing new challenges for recruiters. However, new technologies are emerging to optimize the hiring process.

This year, we will unveil Rakuna Recruit GPT - an AI Chatbot designed to optimize how you screen for the best-fit candidates.

Be sure to explore how this innovative solution and other recruitment services can empower you to overcome obstacles and achieve recruitment success in today's dynamic environment!

Expo Hall Schedule

Monday, June 5

• Expo Hall Open: 13:00 – 20:00

Tuesday, June 6

• Expo Hall Open: 10:30 – 16:00

Wednesday, June 7

• Expo Hall Open: 10:30 – 15:30

Notable Expo Hall Vendors

After closely examining the exhibitor list, here are five outstanding participants:

1. Rakuna - Booth #402

   Yours truly. This year, Rakuna is revealing a brand new solution at NACE - Rakuna Recruit GPT.

Imagine an AI recruiting chatbot that can interact with recruiters using natural language to help them weed through the long list of prospects and applicants to find the best-fit candidates based on given criteria and requirements.

You will get the chance to demo this chatbot along with other innovative solutions like the Campus & Event Recruiting solution or talk and consult with our product developers. So skip the line and book your meeting today to get fantastic giveaways!

See you at the Expo Hall!

2. Big Frey Promotional Products - Booth #502

Big Frey Promotional Products specializes in University Recruiting solutions, offering tailored swag programs for career fairs, intern kits, acceptance gifts, and engaging initiatives. They excel in event swag management, inventory, and logistics, providing impactful solutions for seamless and memorable experiences.

3. Vault/Firsthand - Booth #705 & #703

Vault/Firsthand is a leading career readiness platform that brings together students, career changers, and future entrepreneurs with alumni and professionals. With innovative digital tools and comprehensive content, Vault offers employer rankings and career guides, while Firsthand provides premier career mentoring and engagement. Connecting applicants, students, and recent graduates with real-world experts is easier with Firsthand.

4. Wingspans - Booth #813

Wingspans is an innovative platform featured at NACE23 that harnesses the power of storytelling to cultivate a diverse talent pipeline. With over 700 interviews from various professionals, including pipefitters, astrophysicists, and more, Wingspans offers career planning tools and a shareable portfolio, empowering individuals in their career journeys.

5. Lightcast - Booth #304

Lightcast (formerly Emsi Burning Glass) is a data-driven talent strategy company that connects people with jobs by providing businesses, communities, and educational institutions with the best job market data possible. Their mission is to unlock new possibilities in the labor market and enable better, faster decisions through data-driven insight.

Build a Stronger Knowledge Base with NACE23's Concurrent Sessions

Sessions Schedule

From June 6th to June 7th, visitors will have plenty of opportunities to join their favorite sessions. The schedule includes both a Morning and Afternoon assembly:

Tuesday, June 6

• Morning Concurrent Sessions: 8:45 – 11:00
• Afternoon Concurrent Sessions: 14:30 – 16:45

Wednesday, June 7

• Morning Concurrent Sessions: 8:45 – 9:45
• Afternoon Concurrent Sessions: 13:00 – 16:15

Can’t-Miss Sessions

Early Engagement Strategies for Underrepresented and Underserved Students

• Level: Emerging
• Main Speaker: Kristine Shatas, Wayfair
• Additional Speakers: Elisabeth Mox, Wayfair

If you're passionate about fostering diversity and inclusivity in the workplace, don't miss the "Early Engagement Strategies for Underrepresented and Underserved Students" speaker session at NACE23. Wayfair's pioneering Early Leaders Program serves as the backdrop for this insightful discussion. Learn how to forge valuable partnerships, garner support, and design impactful programs to attract, engage, and retain underrepresented talent. Gain practical strategies adaptable to any organization's structure and culture.

AI, Reneges, DEI, & Other Hot Topics: An Open Dialogue

• Level: Advanced-Level
• Main Speaker: Principles for Ethical Professional Practice Committee

Join the thought-provoking information session to engage in a dynamic conversation about pressing issues in recruiting and career services, exploring AI's impact, reneges, campus recruitment strategy, DEI recruitment, and more. Don't miss this opportunity for insightful discussions and valuable takeaways.

Become Better, Stronger, and Faster With the Campus Talent Acquisition Scorecard

• Level: Advanced-Level
• Main Speaker: Graham Donald, Brainstorm Strategy Group Inc.

If you're looking to improve your campus recruitment program, attending this speaker session is a must. Participants will learn how to evaluate their programs using the Campus Talent Acquisition Scorecard, identify areas for improvement, and work collaboratively with their team to set priorities. This session promises immediate impact and the opportunity to uncover hidden problems and opportunities.

Creative Campus Engagement—Moving Beyond the $

• Level: Intermediate
• Main Speaker: René Howard-Páez, Northwestern Mutual
• Additional Speakers: Kathy Tague, Northwestern Mutual

If you're interested in attracting top talent and building stronger relationships with campuses, faculty, and staff, this session is a must-attend. Northwestern Mutual's leaders will share their innovative approaches to campus engagement, going beyond just financial incentives and highlighting nontraditional methods to create meaningful partnerships. You'll also learn about the impact of COVID and Gen Z on campus partnerships and participate in a case study exercise to develop your own unique campus engagement strategy.

Large Program, Small Team: Building an Award-Winner With a Few Great People

• Level: Intermediate
• Main Speaker: Catherine Pedersen, CDK Global

Visitors should attend this speaker session to gain valuable insights on how a small team can successfully build an award-winning companywide internship program. Discover strategies, recruitment tools, and program initiatives that can augment limited resources, and explore Popl, an innovative recruiting platform. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from CDK Global's success.

Expedia Group's Early Career Playbook for Skills-Based Hiring at Scale

• Level: Intermediate
• Main Speaker: Melissa Angerson, Expedia Group
• Additional Speakers: Nicky Garcea, Cappfinity

Visitors interested in improving their early talent recruitment strategy should attend Expedia Group's session at NACE23. The Global Head of Early Careers will share how they reimagined their recruitment process in collaboration with Cappfinity to achieve diversity hiring goals. Attendees will gain actionable takeaways and insights on scaling up early career offerings and assessing candidates through a strengths-based approach.

NACE’s Featured Speakers - Listen to Inspiring Stories

Monday, June 5 | 4:30 – 6 p.m. ET

Nyle DiMarco

Winner of America's Next Top Model and Dancing with the Stars; Advocate for the Deaf; New York Times Best-selling Author; Philanthropist and Founder of Nyle DiMarco Foundation.

Nyle DiMarco, an extraordinary individual known for his remarkable achievements, inspiring advocacy, and unwavering determination, captivates audiences with his empowering message of limitless possibilities. As the winner of America's Next Top Model and Dancing with the Stars, Nyle has conquered the entertainment industry, proving that any obstacle can be overcome.

Nyle's engaging presence and passion for language, literacy, and advocacy shine through as he shares his barrier-breaking journey, emphasizing that deafness is not a limitation but a unique asset. Through his inspiring story, Nyle encourages audiences to embrace a sense of community, remain committed to their goals, and believe in their own potential. Prepare to be inspired by Nyle DiMarco as he shows that with determination and self-belief, anything is achievable.

Tuesday, June 6 | 1 – 2:15 p.m. ET

Steve Pemberton

Best-selling Author; Philanthropist; Acclaimed Speaker; and Senior-Level Executive

Steve Pemberton's remarkable journey defies the odds and serves as an inspiration to all who hear his story. From a challenging upbringing to becoming a trail-blazing corporate executive, enlightened diversity leader, visionary youth advocate, and acclaimed speaker, Steve's life is a testament to resilience, determination, and vision. His best-selling memoir, A Chance in the World, shares his triumphant life journey and serves as a rallying cry to believe in one's dreams, overcome obstacles, create opportunities for others, and persevere against all odds.

Prepare to be inspired by Steve Pemberton's unwavering determination, his belief in the transformative power of diversity, and his unyielding commitment to empowering others. His powerful messages and life experiences will leave a lasting impact, motivating audiences to overcome challenges, embrace opportunities, and create a better world for all.

Entertainment

You will have three days in Lake Buena Vista Orlando - a charming city with picturesque lakes, world-class theme parks, and diverse shopping & dining options, making it an ideal destination for a memorable post-NACE R&R.

Splitsville Luxury Lanes

If you're looking for a unique and exciting entertainment experience, then you should head to Splitsville Luxury Lanes in Lake Buena Vista, Orlando. This two-story, 50,000-square-foot bowling and dining complex, located in the heart of Downtown Disney's West Side at the Walt Disney World Resort, offers a perfect blend of upscale ambiance and nostalgic charm.

With 30 luxury bowling lanes, billiards, live entertainment, and both indoor and outdoor seating, Splitsville is the ultimate destination for parties of up to 1500 guests. Enjoy a diverse menu ranging from fresh-rolled sushi to mouth-watering cheeseburgers and hand-tossed pizzas!

World of Disney

Looking for the perfect gift for your loved ones after the trip? Then you should head straight to the World of Disney® in Lake Buena Vista, Orlando. As a renowned centerpiece of Disney Springs, this enchanting store is a destination in itself.

Step inside and immerse yourself in a world of magic, where mystical movie posters, animated ink jars, and whimsical touches surround you. Discover a treasure trove of Disney merchandise, from huggable plush characters to stylish collaborations with beloved brands. Don't wait any longer—come and experience the irresistible allure of the World of Disney store today!

Disney Spring

If you are looking for a vibrant destination filled with unique shops, mouthwatering dining options, and lively entertainment, then you should head to Disney Springs in Lake Buena Vista, Orlando. This beautiful area, part of Walt Disney World Resort, is divided into distinct neighborhoods like Town Center, The Landing, West Side, and Marketplace. Immerse yourself in the Disney magic as you explore over 150 stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues, all connected by a beautiful waterfront

Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park

Trying to get away from the heat? Then Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park in Lake Buena Vista - Orlando is a must-visit destination. This tropical paradise offers a storm of excitement and fun under the sun.

From thrilling water slides to a lazy river and a wave pool, there's something for everyone in the family. Don't miss the chance to snorkel in Shark Reef and brave the 6-foot waves in the Surf Pool. Get ready for an unforgettable aquatic experience!

Conclusion

And there you have it, the comprehensive NACE 2023 Conference + Expo Guide. As NACE 2023 approaches, Rakuna is ecstatic about the opportunity to showcase Rakuna Recruit GPT and how we support recruiters within the evolving recruitment landscape. We invite you to schedule an in-person meeting with us to discover firsthand how our solutions can elevate your recruitment strategies.

Get ready to be part of the much-anticipated return of NACE, where innovation and collaboration take center stage. We can't wait to connect with you at NACE 2023!