VM Attorneys Presenting at the 2026 AWI Annual Conference – Oct. 14-16
The Association of Workplace Investigators (AWI) 2026 Annual Conference will take place in Seattle, Washington, October 14–16, 2026.
The AWI Annual Conference brings together workplace investigators from across the United States and around the world for valuable learning, professional development, and networking. The program will explore current issues and emerging practices in workplace investigations, with opportunities to gain practical insights and exchange ideas with fellow professionals.
Van Dermyden Makus attorneys will join fellow investigators and industry professionals in Seattle, with attorneys presenting two sessions on important issues impacting workplace investigations.
We look forward to connecting with colleagues and fellow investigators in Seattle!
Don’t Miss Our Sessions!
General Session: Investigators under Attack: Responding to Lawsuits, Regulatory Actions and More
Thursday, October 15th, 9:30am - 10:30am
What happens when a workplace investigator is a named defendant in litigation or the subject of regulatory action? These scenarios are becoming more common. This engaging panel program comprised of industry leaders, past AWI presidents, and current and past AWI board members will untangle these complicated situations. Every investigator, regardless of experience or role, will come away from this session with new ideas on how to uphold their important role as independent, impartial workplace investigators while also protecting their professional reputation and roles.
Breakout: Cooperation Over Conflict: Interviewee Representatives In Investigative Interviews
Thursday, October 15th, 3:45pm - 4:45pm
Does the presence of a union representative or attorney in your investigative interviews create anxiety—or opportunity? Presented by two investigators who previously served as employee representatives, this interactive session offers a rare dual perspective on working effectively with representatives. Drawing on real-world experience from both sides of the table, the presenters will share practical strategies to build rapport with representatives, leverage their presence to strengthen evidence gathering, and navigate conflict when cooperation breaks down. Whether you're a seasoned investigator or relatively new to the field, you'll leave with a toolbox of techniques to transform potential adversaries into productive partners.
