2026 Staffing Outlook:
Turning Market Insight into Measurable Results
As we begin a new year, many of us are asking the same questions: What is really happening in our industry, and how do we adapt our sales and recruiting strategies to stay competitive and grow?
This session will provide a current snapshot of the staffing landscape and explore key trends shaping the market in 2026. More importantly, it will focus on practical actions leaders and producers can take to strengthen business development, deepen client relationships, and attract and retain the right talent.
Join MKSSA for an engaging and interactive kickoff to the year as we exchange insights, share best practices, and walk away with clear strategies to help drive success in 2026.
Join us on Wednesday, February 18 at 12:00 PM CT for a live, interactive webinar.
Register
This webinar is complimentary for MKSSA members and $35 for non-members.
Not yet a member? Your registration can be applied toward an annual MKSSA membership, giving you access to this and all future events for just $200.
BECOME A MEMBER
Presented by:
John A. Thomas
Vice President SRG Franchise Operations
Specialized Recruiting Group
With more than 30 years of experience in the staffing and recruiting industry, John A. Thomas is a nationally recognized leader, speaker, and trainer known for his expertise in talent acquisition, sales growth, recruiting strategy, leadership development, and business performance.
As Vice President of Franchise Operations for the Specialized Recruiting Group (SRG), the professional division of Express Employment Professionals, John oversees the operational and strategic infrastructure supporting franchises across Accounting & Finance, IT, Engineering, Sales, and Creative/Marketing. His responsibilities include training, content and curriculum development, systems and tools, analytics, marketing, communications, and the operational playbooks that drive consistent, scalable success across the SRG network in the U.S., Canada, South Africa, and Australia.
John has delivered more than 200 training seminars on leadership, management development, recruiting, behavioral interviewing, sales, customer service, and strategic planning. His background in management consulting and franchise operations allows him to bridge market insight with practical execution, helping organizations align company goals with individual performance to drive profitability and growth.
He currently serves as Chairman of the Board of the National Association of Personnel Services (NAPS) and is a past president of the Missouri Kansas Search and Staffing Association. John has also served on the board of the American Staffing Association and is the recipient of the ASA Legislative Merit Award and a Kansas City “40 Under Forty” honoree. A sought-after speaker, he has presented in over 40 states and internationally to audiences of up to 5,000, and is the author of How to Interview Successfully.
For MKSSA membership information, please visit our website at www.mkssa.com.
Best regards,
Jose Rodriguez
MKSSA State President
