Mike Skidgel focuses his practice on the firm’s strategic approach to generative AI. This includes leading efforts to evaluate generative AI tools and platforms, identifying and testing potential genAI use cases, working with vendors to provide critical feedback resulting in meaningful product improvements, providing generative AI training internally to Littler professionals and demos to internal and external audiences. He also works with attorneys and researchers from across Littler, and assists in the development of the firm’s internal generative AI policy and training curriculum.
Mike's diverse role encompasses far more than genAI, and includes: closely working with the handbook group to draft new handbook policies and update and maintain Littler’s employee handbook templates spanning all 50 states, Washington D.C., various localities, and the national handbook; collaborating with ComplianceHR to keep PolicySmart handbook templates up-to-date whenever changes are made; analyzing new litigation for GPS/Littler Edge; drafting and maintaining several 50-state surveys; working with the projects team to help develop and maintain custom apps for use by Littler attorneys; and updating and drafting additions to many Littler publications, including titles in the Littler State Employer Library and Littler National Employer Library series.
Prior to joining Littler, Mike was a partner at a small law firm in Kansas City. He spent 12 years there litigating a wide variety of civil cases, which included defending employers across many different industries in a broad range of litigated employment matters, as well as providing advice and counsel to clients on thorny employment issues. Mike was serving as the firm’s vice president and general counsel when the COVID-19 pandemic started, and gained valuable experience guiding the firm through 2020. Throughout his tenure, he served as a mentor, providing guidance and support to numerous young attorneys. Previously, Mike worked for an ERISA attorney in Kansas City where he gained valuable experience with employee benefits.
