Lunch & Learn
Oct. 14, 2026
Manufacturing & Workforce
Presented by the Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF)
Celebrate Manufacturing Month with our October Lunch & Learn!
Join us October 14 at Resonetics to explore creative ways local employers can connect with current and future talent.
Our panel will highlight internships, work-based learning, employment support for adults with disabilities, and workforce resources available to area businesses. Representatives include the Labovitz School of Business, McLeod County Social Services, Hutchinson High School’s TAP program, TigerPath, Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services, and the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.
Learn what programs are available and how your business can get involved. Afterward, take an optional tour of Resonetics for a behind-the-scenes look at manufacturing right here in Hutchinson!
Lunch & Learn: Manufacturing & Workforce
11:30 AM – Networking & Lunch
12:00–12:45 PM – Presentation
12:45–1:00 PM – Q&A
*1:00-2:00 PM- Resonectics Tour (sign-up in advance)
- Free for all Chamber members | $20 non-members
- Location: Resonetics-40 West Highland Park Drive NE
- RSVP required– Registered and not coming? Let us know asap as we purchase lunch
Lunch & Learn
Nov. 11, 2026
The Power of a Guardian: Connect, Support, Strengthen
Presented by the Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF)
Honor Veterans Day with our November Lunch & Learn
Join us November 11 at the VFW to hear from Tim Burley, U.S. Army veteran, author of Answer the Call: A Guardian’s Field Guide to Walking Beside Others, and founder of WelcomeHome.Vet and the Guardian initiative.
Drawing on his military service and years of veteran advocacy, Tim will explore how everyday people can make a meaningful difference by showing up, listening, and walking beside veterans, service members, families, and others facing difficult times.
Discover what it means to be a Guardian and how each of us can help build a more connected, supportive community.
11:30 AM – Networking & Lunch
12:00–12:45 PM – Presentation
12:45–1:00 PM – Q&A
- Free for all Chamber members | $20 non-members
- Location: VFW 906 | 247 1st Ave SE
- RSVP required– Registered and not coming? Let us know asap as we purchase lunch
- Presented by Tim Burley, U.S. Army veteran, author of Answer the Call: A Guardian’s Field Guide to Walking Beside Others
Lunch & Learn
Dec. 9, 2026
Speed Networking
Presented by the Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF)
Join us December 9 at Art’s Place for speed networking and lunch catered by Antojitos.
Through a series of short conversations, you’ll meet fellow Chamber members, share what you do, and learn more about the people and businesses in our community. Whether you’re new to the Chamber or a familiar face, it’s a fun way to build relationships and discover opportunities to work together.
Bring your business cards and come ready to connect!
11:30 AM – Networking & Lunch
12:00–12:45 PM – Presentation
12:45–1:00 PM – Q&A
- Free for all Chamber members | $20 non-members
- Location: Art’s Place | 35 1st Ave SW
- RSVP required– Registered and not coming? Let us know asap as we purchase lunch
- Presented by Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism
Lunch & Learn
Mar. 10, 2027
Chamber 101: Make the Most of Your Membership
Presented by the Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF)
New to the Chamber or looking for a refresher? Join us March 10 at the Chamber office for a Lunch & Learn with Julie Gilmer to discover what your Chamber membership can do for you.
Explore member benefits, promotional opportunities, events, and ways to get connected and involved. Meet fellow members, bring your questions, and leave with practical ideas to make the most of your membership.
11:30 AM – Networking & Lunch
12:00–12:45 PM – Presentation
12:45–1:00 PM – Q&A
- Free for all Chamber members | $20 non-members
- Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism– Goebel Room at the Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism office
- RSVP required– Registered and not coming? Let us know asap as we purchase lunch
- Presented by Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism – Director of Communications, Julie Gilmer
Lunch & Learn
Apr. 14, 2027
Employee or Independent Contractor? Understanding Misclassification
Presented by the Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF)
Join us April 14 at the Chamber office for a Lunch & Learn with Vinna Human Resources exploring worker classification and why it matters for your business.
Learn about the distinction between employees and independent contractors, common classification mistakes, and considerations to help employers avoid costly missteps.
11:30 AM – Networking & Lunch
12:00–12:45 PM – Presentation
12:45–1:00 PM – Q&A
- Free for all Chamber members | $20 non-members
- Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism– Goebel Room at the Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism office
- RSVP required– Registered and not coming? Let us know asap as we purchase lunch
- Presented by Vinna HR
Lunch & Learn
May 12, 2027
Minnesota Chamber of Commerce
Presented by the Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF)
Minnesota’s economic future depends on how intentionally we plan for growth. Join us for a Lunch & Learn presented by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce featuring Jennifer Byers, Vice President of Grassroots and Local Chamber Relations and Executive Director of the Minnesota Chamber Foundation.
Jennifer will take a closer look at where Minnesota’s economy stands today, what’s driving, or slowing, momentum, and strategies that can help accelerate sustainable growth in communities across the state. She’ll also provide a brief legislative session update and share what recent developments could mean for Minnesota businesses and communities.
11:30 AM – Networking & Lunch
12:00–12:45 PM – Presentation
12:45–1:00 PM – Q&A
- Free for all Chamber members | $20 non-members
- Location: The Lauer Building Event Center | 28 Main St. N.- stair accessibility only
- RSVP required– Registered and not coming? Let us know asap as we purchase lunch
- Presented by MN Chamber of Commerce Jennifer Byers, Vice President of Grassroots and Local Chamber Relations and Executive Director of the Minnesota Chamber Foundation.
