SIA CollaborationX: AI, Staffing, and the Future of Work

This week, ARTC had the opportunity to attend Staffing Industry Analysts’ CollaborationX Summit in Dallas. Our General Manager, Ben Groleau, joined industry leaders, innovators, and enterprise buyers to explore how technology, regulation, and new business models are reshaping staffing. He was joined by Negin Naraghi, Senior Vice President of Staffing & Workforce Augmentation at Allied Resources Group.

The conference opened with an honest look at the economic headwinds shaping staffing—slower hiring decisions, inflationary pressures, and increasing regulatory complexity. Despite those challenges, certain sectors like engineering and IT continue to grow. In fact, infrastructure projects, digital transformation, and the rise of cybersecurity are driving steady demand for specialized talent.

“The message was clear: AI is not a replacement for people. It’s an enabler that helps us work smarter, faster, and more strategically. At ARTC, that aligns with how we support clients and consultants every day.” – Ben Groleau, General Manager, ARTC

For ARTC, the sessions on AI adoption stood out most. The conversation went beyond hype, emphasizing how tools must be applied intentionally to deliver real value. From front-office recruiting enhancements to back-office automation, the opportunities are clear: firms that integrate AI strategically will free up their teams to focus on high-value, human-centered work.

“For ARTC, the key takeaway was how important change management is. Tools only work if people are trained, processes are aligned, and adoption is supported. That’s where the real transformation happens.” – Negin Naraghi, SVP of Staffing & Workforce Augmentation, ARG

As ARTC looks ahead, insights from CollaborationX reinforce our focus on blending technology adoption with human expertise. By pairing innovation with strong relationships, we remain committed to delivering solutions that move projects forward and create long-term value for our partners.