Program

Get the Most Out of The Exchange: Expand Your Connections & Knowledge

Speed Networking

Speed Networking by Wintrust offers a structured platform for participants to expand their professional network and cultivate meaningful connections in a dynamic environment. Through a rotational format, attendees engage in brief, elevator pitch-driven conversations, exchanging insights, contact information, and fostering diverse connections, ultimately paving the way for continued engagement and collaboration beyond the event.

Chamber Chats

Chamber Chats are 30-minute interactive sessions designed to provide business leaders with actionable insights and strategies to tackle real-world challenges. These focused discussions will cover key topics shaping today’s business landscape.

Session 1: The Talent Edge: Leading, Hiring and Retaining in Today’s Labor Market

Presenters: Chris White & George Clauser | Robert Half
With the labor market rapidly evolving, businesses must navigate shifting salary expectations, tight talent pools, and the growing impact of AI. Experts from Robert Half will explore key hiring trends and compensation outlooks for 2026, along with insights into how AI is reshaping productivity and skill demands. Attendees will gain practical strategies to strengthen hiring, retention, and people-first leadership in an increasingly competitive environment.

Session 2: Growth American Airlines is Experiencing in Chicago, Insights into the AAdvantage Business Program and Connection to Upcoming Centennial Day on April 15

Presenters: Jacob Teplin & Jenny Ovalles | American Airlines
As American Airlines continues to expand its presence in Chicago, this chat will highlight key growth insights and opportunities for the business community. Leaders from American Airlines will discuss how the AAdvantage Business program supports companies as they scale and connect it to the upcoming Centennial Day celebration. Attendees will learn how to maximize travel programs and partnerships for long-term business success.

Session 3: AI and Cybersecurity

Presenter: John Kampas | EMPIST
As AI continues to transform the digital landscape, organizations must also address rising cybersecurity risks. EMPIST will explore how artificial intelligence is influencing threat detection, data protection, and overall security strategy. Attendees will walk away with actionable insights on leveraging AI while safeguarding their business from evolving cyber threats.

Session 4: Access to Capital in Today’s Economy: What Lenders Are Really Looking For in 2026

Presenters: Karen Villaflor, Dee Florczyk & Chris Otterson | Pillur, powered by MSUFCU
Access to capital is evolving—and so are the expectations. In this session, Pillur breaks down what lenders are really evaluating in 2026 and how to position your business for smarter, stronger funding opportunities.

Session 5: From Bookkeeping to Boardroom: Scalable, Tech-Enabled Finance for Confident Growth

Presenters: Nico Berrini, Segdrick Byrd & Britney Robertson | Citrin Cooperman
Citrin Cooperman will demonstrate how a tech-enabled, right-sized outsourcing approach can deliver audit-ready accounting, real-time insights, and CFO-level strategy. Attend this conversation and learn how to build a financial foundation that supports sustainable growth and confident decision-making.