Member-only JASA Virtual Speaker Series
We launched the JASA Virtual Speaker Series exclusively for JASA members in February 2025. This series features subject matter experts on topics selected based on member interest and is offered at no cost to members. If you’re not yet a member and would like to attend these exclusive sessions, we encourage you to apply for membership!
UPCOMING SESSION!
Virtual Speaker Series #3 "Nisei Spirit and the 442nd Infantry Regiment, with David Bonner"
Date: 7/8/2025
Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM (CDT)
.png)
This lecture examines the historical events and life experiences that shaped the 2,686 second generation Japanese-Hawaiian men, or Nisei, who helped to form the most decorated combat unit in American military history for its size and duration of service - the 442nd Infantry Regiment.
From their time spent in the Japanese language schools and involvement in community organizations, to the hardships endured during Japanese Internment, Bonner will explore how an enduring sense of duty was instilled in the Nisei soldiers by their families and a tight-knit network of Japanese-American communities in the United States, and ultimately shaped their combat motivations and operational success.
JASA is offering a $500 corporate sponsorship opportunity for this event. Our corporate sponsor will recieve a 10-minute speaking slot to introduce your company during the session, as well as logo placement on our event webpage and social media.
PAST SESSIONS
Virtual Speaker Series #2 "Import Tariffs and Supply Chain Resiliency"
Date: 3/19/2025
Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM (CDT)
Participate in National SBDC Day and Join the Alabama International Trade Center and Kuehne + Nagel Inc. for a free webinar to discuss the 2025 Import Tariffs and Supply Chain Implications. Co-hosted by the Alabama International Trade Center and the Japan America Society of Alabama.
Agenda:
- 2025 Tariffs
- China Tariffs
- Steel and Aluminum Tariffs
- Supply Chain Implications
- Tariff Engineering
- Nearshoring
Speakers:
Carolyn Turner - Assistant Director Research and Training at Alabama International Trade Center
Derek Mckenny - Global Customs Business Development Manager at Kuehne + Nagel
Matthew Clark - Director, Trade Consulting Solutions NAM at Kuehne + Nagel
Virtual Speaker Series #1 "Workforce Development Resources in Alabama"
Date: 2/4/2025
Time: 9:30 AM - 10:30 PM (CDT)
The Alabama Community College System (ACCS) recognizes that Alabama's economic growth is dependent upon a skilled and trained workforce and is therefore dedicated to providing specialized training designed to meet industry demands. Through its twenty-four (24) community colleges across the state, ACCS supports efforts to make these training programs accessible and tailored to the unique needs of local industries and communities.
In this session, ACCS will provide an overview of workforce development initiatives such as work-based learning programs, new customized short-term training courses, and statewide programming designed to engage more learners.
Speakers:
- Melody Whitten, Chief Economic Development Officer
- Audrey Webb, Director of Work-Based Learning Programs
- Julie Frizzell, Chief of Operations – Innovation Center