September Meeting: THE NEW ENGAGEMENT EQUATION: How HR Can Align People and AI for Maximum Impact

Description: 

AI is rewriting the rules of work — and HR is now on the frontlines of one of the most critical decisions every organization must make: Will we use AI to empower our people, or accidentally push them away? 

In this bold and practical session, executive speaker and former manufacturing and engineering leader Richard Gunderson reveals how disengagement has become the hidden risk in digital transformation — and how HR can lead the charge to reverse it. Grounded in real-world case studies, this session introduces a new blueprint for AI-aligned engagement that prioritizes trust, inclusion, and growth at every stage of the transformation journey. 

You’ll explore: 

• Why even well-intended AI initiatives can cause disengagement, distrust, and turnover 

• The three psychological responses employees have to AI — and how HR can influence each 

• How to spot early warning signs that culture is breaking down during digital change 

• The New Engagement Equation: A practical framework to align talent, culture, and technology 

• Case examples of how manufacturing, healthcare, and tech firms have used engagement to boost adoption, retention, and innovation 

• The strategic role HR must play in co-creating AI transformation — not just reacting to it 

This session equips HR professionals with actionable tools, language, and leadership strategies to ensure AI adoption accelerates — not erodes — business performance. Because in the age of automation, engagement isn’t optional. It’s your competitive edge. 

Speaker:       

Richard Gunderson, President 

Speak For Business Impact 

(612) 730-0966 (OFFICE) 

richard.a.gunderson@gmail.com 

https://speakforbusinessimpact.com

Bio: 

Richard Gunderson is a leadership and engagement strategist helping organizations harness the power of employee engagement to thrive in the age of digital transformation and AI. With a focus on business performance, resilience, and retention, Richard empowers leaders to align their workforce strategies with evolving technologies—ensuring that people remain central to progress, not sidelined by it. 

He champions a 360-degree approach that spans talent acquisition, leadership development, cultural transformation, and employee well-being, helping organizations future-proof their workforce while enhancing brand strength, customer satisfaction, and revenue growth. 

With deep cross-industry experience, Richard uncovers critical gaps in the hiring process—such as unclear job roles, fragmented communication, and outdated assessment methods—and replaces them with strategies built for agility and technological alignment. He believes that human-centered leadership is the missing link in AI integration, enabling organizations to build trust, drive innovation, and sustain high performance. 

Recognizing that not all cultures support engagement—especially during digital disruption—Richard works with leaders to instill clarity, consistency, and values-driven messaging that promotes open dialogue around well-being, feedback, and adaptability. 

His work translates complex organizational challenges into measurable gains in retention, morale, productivity, and now, AI-readiness. Richard holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, has multiple patents, authored two books, has founded both a professional association and a corporation (serving as President of both), and volunteers to coach professionals in career development. He is also a proud father of two daughters and grandfather to five. 

Location:

Matter

7005 Oxford St

St Louis Park, MN 55426

Parking & Arrival:

Members can park in any open spot in the front side of the building (near Oxford Street) and enter through the front entrance under the orange awning.

Agenda:

7:30-8:00 AM    Networking and Registration

8:00-9:30 AM    Welcome, Announcements and Speaker Presentation

9:30-10:00 AM  Optional Roundtable

Bookings