The IAWP Oregon Chapter’s 2024 Fall Educational Institute, held on October 7 and 8 at the Salem Scottish Rite Center, was a transformative event filled with opportunities for learning, networking, and professional growth.
Ron Sohnery, President of the IAWP Oregon Chapter, played a crucial role in organizing the event, ensuring its success. Amber Drake shone as the MC, leading a thought-provoking session titled Proud to Fail: How Failure Leads to Growth. Her presentation encouraged attendees to embrace failure as an essential step toward success, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
The event kicked off with The Digital Divide, presented by Rachel Bruneau, who explored the challenges of digital literacy across generations and offered strategies to promote inclusivity. Nancy Fink, former International President from Maryland, followed with her session Change is Good… You Go First!, engaging the audience with practical insights on workplace adaptability, stress management, and preventing burnout.
Amber Drake continued to enhance the discussions throughout the event, using her MC role to connect and elevate each session. Her contributions on leadership, resilience, and personal growth resonated deeply with attendees.
Malcolm Boswell, a Labor Economist with the Oregon State Employment Department, presented AI’s Impact on the Labor Market: What We Know, What We Don’t, offering a detailed analysis of artificial intelligence’s growing influence on the workforce. His session provided participants with valuable insights into the future of work and technology’s evolving role.
Grant Axtell, Learning & Development Manager at Paid Leave Oregon, presented Burnout, Compassion Fatigue, and Vicarious Trauma, guiding attendees through a self-assessment and practical methods to regain wellness and balance in high-stress environments.
The Institute wrapped up with participants reflecting on how they would implement their newfound knowledge in their workplaces, extending the event’s influence beyond the two-day gathering. It highlighted the power of collaboration and continuous learning in the workforce development arena.