Pittsburgh Human Resources Association - PHRA

05/08/2026

Save the date and plan to spend Tuesday, June 2nd with the Pittsburgh Human Resources Association at Quicksilver Golf Club for our Annual Golf and Bocce Outing. This cornerstone PHRA event welcomes HR professionals from across the region for a day filled with meaningful connections, camaraderie, and lighthearted competition on both the greens and the bocce courts. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer, a bocce enthusiast, or simply looking to try something new, it’s an ideal setting to network, build lasting relationships, and enjoy a fun, laid-back experience with peers. Be part of one of PHRA’s most well-loved events of the year—register now and help spread the word about a day dedicated to connection, collaboration, and a little friendly rivalry. https://buff.ly/IpE44l1

05/07/2026

A new HR Dive article highlights why the Latino leadership gap isn’t a pipeline issue—but a promotion one. Research shows Latino professionals are well represented in the workforce, yet advancement stalls at the critical mid‑to‑senior transition due to gaps in sponsorship, visibility and clear advancement criteria. The takeaway for HR leaders: progress at the top requires redesigning promotion systems, not just building early‑career pipelines. A quick, important read for anyone focused on leadership development and equity.

Recent research identified a “conversion gap” between mid- and senior-level roles.

05/06/2026

HR leaders are under pressure to prove AI is boosting productivity, but a new HR Executive article argues many organizations are measuring the wrong things. Drawing on Seramount research with more than 100 CHROs, the piece describes an “AI productivity paradox”: AI may speed up work, but it doesn’t necessarily improve quality, judgment or outcomes. When leaders focus on output and activity instead of impact and accountability, they risk more rework, weaker engagement and blurred ownership. The article makes a clear case for HR’s role in reframing performance metrics, building human judgment and helping employees use AI as a thought partner, not a shortcut. Worth a read for anyone shaping AI strategy, talent development or performance management.

A new report finds that what may be perceived as a productivity problem tied to hybrid work is really an AI-based outcome measurement issue.

05/05/2026

05/04/2026

As organizations accelerate AI adoption, HR leaders may soon face an unexpected challenge: religious accommodation requests tied to AI use. A new HR Dive analysis explains how the recent surge in religious discrimination claims, combined with limited legal precedent around AI mandates, could put employers in uncharted territory. The article urges HR teams to prepare now by strengthening accommodation processes and engaging in thoughtful, well-documented dialogue before issues arise. Read the article from HR Dive:

“If you’re encountering this, there’s a good chance you might be the test case,” one employer-side attorney told HR Dive.

05/02/2026

In today’s workplace, time off is starting to look less like a benefit and more like a risk.

This article explores how job insecurity is changing employee behavior, with many workers hesitant to use PTO out of concern for how it may be perceived or impact their job stability. In some cases, time off is becoming an act of self-preservation rather than true rest. ()

The implication for employers is clear: policies alone aren’t enough. Culture, trust, and psychological safety play a critical role in whether employees feel comfortable stepping away.

A timely read for anyone thinking about employee wellbeing, retention, and workplace culture:

In an era of mass layoffs, employees are increasingly hanging onto their paid time off as a form of “job insurance.”

04/30/2026

More Gen X professionals are delaying retirement and it’s reshaping workforce dynamics.

This article explores how gaps in retirement readiness are keeping many employees in the workforce longer, creating new challenges and opportunities for employers. The takeaway: organizations may need to rethink workforce planning, career paths, and benefits to adapt.

A quick, insightful read for anyone focused on talent strategy:

New research highlights the extent of the employee financial wellness crisis, as 47% of Gen Xers plan to delay retirement.

04/29/2026

Looking to reconnect and expand your HR network? Join us on May 28 at the Hardwood Café in Butler, PA for our next Meet Your PHRA Colleagues Networking Event. This is a great opportunity to connect with familiar faces and build new relationships with colleagues from BHRA and MLHRA.

Come exchange ideas, share experiences, and strengthen the connections that support our HR community. We hope to see you there: https://buff.ly/PpUz5Ko

04/28/2026

Mental health shows up in the workplace every day, often in ways that are easy to miss.

Stronger Minds, Healthier Workplaces is a four-part Mental Health Bootcamp designed for HR professionals, leaders, and people managers who support others at work. This live Zoom series (May 22–29, 12:00–1:00 PM) focuses on recognizing early signs of stress and burnout, responding with confidence, and building healthier, more supportive teams.

Each session is practical, science-backed, and designed for real-world application. Registration also includes 30 days of on-demand access to all recordings.

Learn more and register: https://buff.ly/DnmD4Dz

04/27/2026

The hiring landscape is changing and traditional recruiting approaches may no longer be enough. A recent HR Dive article highlights the need for a more intentional, personalized approach to engaging talent, especially as many employees are staying put in today’s uncertain market.

The key takeaway: recruiting is becoming more strategic and human-centered, with a stronger focus on candidate experience and meaningful conversations. If you’re rethinking your hiring strategy, this is a quick, worthwhile read:

Workers are staying put for security amid market uncertainty, so recruiters have to do more than offer a job, a panelist at SHRM Talent told attendees.

04/25/2026

This HR Executive article explores why flexibility remains a powerful advantage in today’s tight labor market—and where it can create real risk. Flexible work arrangements can help organizations attract talent, reduce burnout, and stay competitive, but only when roles, expectations, and worker classifications are clearly defined. The key message for HR leaders is that flexibility works best when it’s intentional, compliant, and well documented. A useful reminder that how flexibility is designed matters just as much as offering it. Read more here:

Flexible work arrangements help small businesses compete for talent, but only if they’re set up the right way.