Sessions
Session Descriptions
The Un-Right Thing
Steve Fredlund, The Safari Way, LLC
Working in risk management inside the government is an epic adventure -- filled with ups & downs, highs & lows, knowns & unknowns. We work hard, scrambling to do everything right, so we can maintain the status quo. It feels similar to our personal lives, working hard and doing everything right, to create a life that is good; where everything is "fine." But inwardly we are longing for something more, longing for just a taste of the extraordinary. But how does a breakthrough happen? How can we become more personally fulfilled and professionally successful in the midst of our epic adventure?
Still Standing, Still Smiling
John Kriesel, Still Standing, LLC
During John’s presentation, he will describe his decision to join the military at 17 years of age, and his overseas deployments. He will discuss in detail the tragic events of December 2, 2006, and his thoughts and feelings as he lay on a dirt road in Iraq, nearly bleeding to death. He will describe what tools he used to overcome the extreme challenges he faced, while making it relatable and relevant for whoever he is presenting to. John’s story, sense of humor, and positive outlook on life will leave your audience inspired.
From Claim to Closure: Navigating Workers' Compensation Through LEgal and Operational Lenses
Gabe Johnson, Attorney, Minnesota Department of Administration, Judge Thomas Christenson, Workers' Compensation Court, &b Whitney Teal, AAFEDT FORDE Attorney at Law
In this informative session, a seasoned plaintiff attorney will walk attendees through the key factors he examines when evaluating a new case, including the initial injury report, whether the employer or insurer has accepted liability, the extent of wage loss due to missed work, and the nature and scope of medical treatment received. The attorney will outline how each element contributes to the strength and value of a claim. On the other side, an experienced defense attorney will share their approach upon receiving a case, detailing the critical steps that will be taken from initial case assignment through discovery. Attendees will also gain a deeper understanding of how to build or defend a case with a Worker’s Compensation Court of Appeals judge’s perspective in mind.
WC Overview, Settlements, Improvements, and Questions
Mike Kocer & Kristina Hays
This session will provide key updates on recent improvements to the claims and resolution process, aimed at streamlining workflows and enhancing efficiency. Attendees will gain insight into the evolving role of coordinators and how they collaborate closely with Risk Management to support successful outcomes. A live Q&A with claims adjusters will offer the opportunity to ask questions about claims workflows, payment timelines, and navigating the iRISK system..
Driving for Success-- Optimizing Fleet Management with Telematics, Risk Partnership and Safety Controls.
Kevin Schlangen, Dakota County
Telematics is a cornerstone of modern fleet programs, offering real-time visibility into both driver behavior and vehicle performance. By leveraging GPS tracking, onboard diagnostics, and advanced data analytics, fleet managers can closely monitor key metrics such as speeding, harsh braking, excessive idling, and route optimization. These insights enable the implementation of precise safety controls, promoting safer driving habits, reducing accident rates, and limiting liability exposure. More than just data collection, telematics empowers organizations to turn complex information into strategic, data-driven decisions—ultimately enhancing safety, improving efficiency, and lowering operational risk.
Psychological Safety: What it is, what it isn't and how might it be useful to your safety program.
Carolyn Sampson, Adjunct Professor at Minnesota State College Southeast
Each person possesses unique Safety DNA, influencing their susceptibility to injuries. Frontline leaders also play a crucial role in this. This session will explain the 4 S.A.F.E. factors contributing to the likelihood of injury and validating study results proving this theory.
Minnesota OSHA Update
Commissioner Nicole Blissenbach & Jim Kruger, Director, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Minnesota Department of Labor
This session will provide an overview of how MNOSHA promotes and regulates workplace safety and health. It will cover trends in workplace fatalities, statistics on workplace injuries and illnesses, and the current regulatory agenda with federal OSHA.
Safety Beyond Compliance: OSHA Standards are just the Beginning
Cory Weston, Minnesota State South Central
Meeting OSHA standards is the same as meeting the bare minimum requirements — real safety means going further. This presentation explores how to shift your workplace mindset from minimum compliance to maximum protection. We’ll cover examples of going above and beyond in topics such as noise, fall protection, equipment operation, etc. Learn how to identify gaps, engage employees, and create a culture where safety isn’t a box to check — it’s how you work every day.
AI in Safety and Risk Management: Smarter Systems, Safer Futures.
Adam Taha, Minnesota Department of Administration, Office of Enterprise Translation
This session provides a clear understanding of how artificial intelligence (AI) can be utilized in the fields of safety and risk management. AI technologies can play a crucial role in identifying hazards, mitigating risks, and enhancing overall safety protocols. By analyzing data, AI can help organizations make informed decisions, improve response times, and ultimately protect both personnel and assets.
Unlocking the Invisible: Infrared Thermography in Action
Dennis DeGerald, Hartford Steam Boiler
This presentation will introduce our recently purchased cameras and provide insights on how to capture the best images. The applications of these cameras are extensive, and with a bit of understanding of their capabilities, we can obtain high-quality images that can be used for loss prevention purposes. Whether in smaller facilities or large institutions like DOCs or colleges, these cameras can help prevent damage to electrical systems and reduce the likelihood of downtime, equipment failure, or fires that could result in injury or loss of life.
Our partnership with the state has been strong for many years, during which we have conducted over 100 surveys. These surveys have identified various issues that might have gone unnoticed without thermal imaging. Included in the presentation are actual photos taken during these surveys.