Carrie Vargas, SPHR, CRT – Speaker

Carrie Vargas is a seasoned HR leader with over 25 years of experience in the aviation industry, including a distinguished tenure with United Airlines. In her current role as HR Leader for the Houston Hub at United, Carrie oversees a dedicated team that supports more than 3,600 employees, supporting the seamless operation at one of the airline’s largest and most dynamic hubs.

Throughout her career, Carrie has consistently demonstrated her ability to lead and innovate across a wide range of HR functions, supporting business units across both the U.S. and Canada. Her areas of expertise include HR Business Strategist, Employee and Labor Relations, Leadership and Organizational Development, Talent Acquisition, and HR Compliance. She has played a key role in driving large-scale HR transformation initiatives, leading efforts that have resulted in more effective and efficient HR practices, stronger employee relations, and improved talent retention. With a strong focus on continuous improvement, Carrie has led and implemented innovative HR solutions within HR Centers of Excellence that delivered measurable business impact and long-term value.

A recognized advocate for workplace culture, Carrie has championed numerous initiatives aimed at strengthening employer branding and fostering inclusive, diverse, and high-performing work environments. Her leadership is grounded in the belief that a positive workplace culture is critical to employee engagement and overall organizational success. Carrie’s approach as both a people and business strategist reflects her deep commitment to operational excellence and strategic alignment. Known for her people-centered leadership style, she continues to inspire those around her by building strong teams and delivering HR initiatives that successfully balance business priorities with employee experience and development

Jocelyn Y. LaBove, Neutral Arbitrator – Moderator

Jocelyn is an arbitrator, mediator and board-certified attorney in Labor and Employment Law and Aviation Law by the State of Texas, with extensive experience across both public and private sectors. She most recently served as the Risk and Regulatory Compliance Officer for one of the nation’s largest airports before returning to private practice. Prior to that, she was the Director of Labor Relations for United and Continental Airlines. Her earlier career includes a diverse background as a public-sector litigator and advocate, representing both employers and employees in matters involving civil rights, labor relations, regulatory compliance, negotiations, mediations, arbitrations, and transactional issues. Today, her practice centers on serving as a neutral arbitrator and regulatory advisor, with a focus on developing resilient policies, legal responses, and training programs to ensure compliance and effective investigations