Sponsored by:
Recognize, Respond, Survive: Building a Safer Workplace Through Prevention, Preparedness, and Action Presented by: Chad Ayers and Andy Sexton with the ProActive Response Group
Date: August 5, 2026 Time: 11:30am - 1:00pmLocation: Southern First
Ticket Prices: Member: $30.00 Non-member/Non-member Guest: $60.00Deadline: Friday, July 31, 2026
Refunds: Cancellations must be made by July 31,2026 in order to be refunded.
Description:
Workplace violence prevention requires more than a policy—it requires awareness, preparation, and the confidence to act when seconds matter. In this engaging and practical session, attendees will learn how to recognize early warning signs and behavioral indicators that may precede workplace violence, understand effective response options during critical incidents, and gain insight into life-saving bleeding control principles that can improve survival outcomes before emergency responders arrive. We will also discuss what an effective workplace violence prevention training program should include, how organizations can create a culture of preparedness, and the important role HR professionals play in reducing risk, supporting employees, and strengthening workplace safety.
Meet our Speaker:
Chad Ayers
Chad Ayers served as a Sheriff’s Deputy for Greenville County in South Carolina for 12 years. During his time as a Deputy in Greenville County, Chad worked undercover in numerous federal and state investigations, performing in high-pressure environments.
Chad was a member of the SWAT team, where he served as an assistant team leader. He is experienced in hostage negotiations and rescue as well as active shooter events. Chad also assisted in the creation and implementation of the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office active shooter response program.
During his tenure as a Deputy, Chad received numerous awards and commendations. In 2006, he was named Greenville County Sheriff Rookie of the Year. In 2008, Chad received a Distinguished Service Award, and in 2009, he was awarded two Letters of Commendation for undercover work. He was the recipient of the Greenville County Sheriff’s Medal of Valor in 2011 and 2012. On January 21, 2016, Chad received the 2015 Sam Simmons Award which is given to the top Deputy in Greenville County.
Chad is a 2006 graduate of the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and a 2006 graduate of South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy where he received the academy’s top award, the J.P. Strom Award, given to the graduate with the highest academic average.
Chad starred in season one of A&E TV’s Emmy-winning documentary LIVEPD and is a commentator for FOX News, Law & Crime Network and Megyn Kelly Live.
HR Certification Credits: Greenville SHRM is recognized by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. This program has been pre-approved for 1 hour of SHRM re-certification credit. This program has also been pre-approved for 1 hour of HRCI General re-certification credit toward aPHR®, aPHRi™, PHR®, PHRca®, SPHR®, GPHR®, PHRi™ and SPHRi™ recertification through HR Certification Institute® (HRCI®). Certificates will be emailed to those in attendance after the meeting along with a Feedback Survey.
Solicitation at Meetings: With the exception of our meeting sponsor(s), Greenville SHRM enforces a no solicitation policy at meetings. View the policy here.
Accommodations: Please indicate any special accommodations or dietary restrictions on your reservation form, or contact greenvillehr@gmail.com by the registration deadline.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations after the deadline date are subject to the meeting fee payment. Please direct changes or questions to greenvillehr@gmail.com.
P.O. Box 5202 Greenville, SC 29606
