HRMAC began in 1915 with a group of seven people who met informally to discuss common problems, but within a few months, it had grown considerably and became known as the Employers' Advisory Group. This group became formally organized and instituted corporate memberships. The Employers' Advisory Group had several more names and for a very short period, was a chapter of a national group. The chapter hosted the national organization meeting in Chicago in 1921 for 2,000 people. In fact, on the first day of the event, the wait staff at the conference hotel went on strike. Bag or box lunches were obtained and lunch was eaten at the delegates' seats in an auditorium. The organization then became known as the Industrial Relations Association of Chicago and kept that name until 1982 when it became known as the Human Resources Management Association of Chicago. HRMAC is currently Chicagoland's premier resource for advancing workplace strategy and leadership. HRMAC membership is comprised of nearly 750 Chicago area organizations with a network of over 7,000 HR Professionals representing small private companies to multi-national public corporations from every business sector. With an unmatched tradition of fellowship, education and leadership, HRMAC is the oldest human resources organization in the country. Having recently concluded its 100th anniversary celebration, HRMAC remains committed to serving the human resources community and advancing the impact of progressive HR strategies on business success.