Build Your Day at Crossroads

Create your own professional development experience by choosing the sessions that matter most to you.

  • Explore nearly 70 employers, educational institutions, workforce organizations, veteran service organizations, entrepreneurs, and community partners from across Chicagoland.

  • Courtesy of Western Governors University, Professional Development Sponsor, and photographed by Oscar Kush.

  • Moderator: Raghu Sundara, Always Be Connecting
    Panelists: James Cheng, TSOR Group | Gregg-Brooke Koleno, MBA, IA Business Advisors | Dan Origer, DJ’s Auto Service Center

    Learn how successful entrepreneurs build businesses that grow without sacrificing their time, leadership, or vision.

  • Presenter: Cody Lee, Old National Bank

    Discover how your military and professional experience can translate into rewarding careers throughout the financial services industry.

  • Presenter: Chad Eaves, Eaves Group

    Strengthen your communication, executive presence, and leadership through practical techniques you can apply immediately.

  • Presenter: Chris Cooks, Southland Development Authority / Illinois APEX Accelerator

    Learn how military and federal experience can translate into opportunities in government contracting, consulting, manufacturing, and America's defense industrial base.

  • Presenters: Behati Hart (BE) & Scott Raether (CareerCultivated)

    Explore how AI fluency and authentic human leadership combine to shape tomorrow's workforce.

  • Moderator: Kevin Kramer, Village of Hoffman Estates
    Panelists: Sean Glowacz, AICP, Power Construction | Garett Jaco, CPP, Compass Datacenters | Benjamin Mack, PMP, Convergint

    Featuring digital infrastructure leaders discussing careers in one of the nation's fastest-growing industries.

  • Presenter: Raghu Sundara, Always Be Connecting

    Learn practical strategies for turning conversations into long-term professional relationships.

  • Dr. Brian Smith, Founder & Senior Managing Partner, IA Business Advisors

    Discover how the principles developed through military service can shape your leadership, strengthen organizational culture, and create lasting influence in every aspect of life.

  • Continue the conversation with employers, entrepreneurs, educators, workforce organizations, veteran service organizations, and fellow professionals.

    Complimentary hors d'oeuvres will be served, and Bell Market's full-service bar will remain open for beverage purchases. (RSVP by 7/13 required)