The Washington State Chapter of the International Association of Workforce Professionals (IAWP) recently held its 81st Annual Conference at the Seattle Airport Marriott, marking another successful milestone for workforce development professionals. This three-day event was a vibrant platform for learning, networking, and collaboration, all under the leadership of acting chapter president Suzanne Nichols and educational chair Cheryl Brown. The conference delivered a wealth of knowledge, providing participants with new insights into workforce trends, tools for professional growth, and opportunities to engage with peers from various sectors.
Keynote Highlights and Memorable Moments
A highlight of the conference was the inspiring presentation by Rhetta Barker, an employment specialist with Partners for Reentry Opportunities in Workforce Development (PROWD). Rhetta shared her journey of overcoming justice involvement, earning multiple degrees, and dedicating her life to reentry services. Her story resonated deeply with attendees, offering a powerful reminder of the importance of second chances and resilience.
Another notable keynote speaker, Dr. Jessica Houston, captured the audience with her talk titled Unleashing Extraordinary: From Surviving to Thriving. Dr. Houston provided attendees with actionable strategies to manage stress, enhance productivity, and foster transformative change in their personal and professional lives.
Exploring Challenges and Opportunities in Workforce Development
Another prominent theme was reentry and employer engagement, with Ty Reed, Reentry Manager for the Washington State Employment Security Department, addressing the challenges faced by justice-involved individuals. His presentation shed light on how employers can play a crucial role in supporting this often-overlooked group, providing a meaningful discussion on ways to overcome workforce shortages. Click here to view PowerPoint slides.
Nancy Fink, a former IAWP president, facilitated a session on managing stress and burnout—issues many workforce professionals face in their daily lives. Her session offered practical advice on balancing the heavy demands of the job while maintaining personal well-being. Click here to view Nancy’s presentation.
Technology and Innovation Take Center Stage
Technology’s growing influence on workforce development was another key theme throughout the conference. A dynamic session led by James LauRue and Chelsey Michel delved into how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming workforce systems. They shared insights into using AI to improve job seeker outcomes and streamline processes, sparking meaningful discussions about the future of workforce development. Click here to see the PowerPoint presentation.
Leadership Perspectives: Commissioner Cami Feek’s Impact
One of the key highlights of the conference was the participation of Cami Feek, the Commissioner of the Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD). Commissioner Feek’s leadership and unwavering commitment to supporting her staff were clearly evident throughout the event. She has been instrumental in fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development within the department, emphasizing the importance of equipping staff with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in today’s evolving workforce landscape.
Feek’s focus on staff development reflects her broader vision of ensuring that the ESD not only serves job seekers and employers but also supports its employees in reaching their full potential. Her dedication to creating opportunities for lifelong learning has empowered staff at all levels to take on leadership roles, innovate, and deliver better services to Washington state residents.
Panel Discussions and Collaborative Conversations
Throughout the conference, participants engaged in lively panel discussions on topics ranging from adapting to the changing workforce landscape to building more inclusive workplaces. A standout session, The Future of Work: Empowering the Workforce of Tomorrow, featured a distinguished panel of industry leaders who explored current challenges, shared emerging trends, and provided actionable solutions to shape the workforce of tomorrow. Panelists included leaders like Cami Feek, Joel Sacks, Eleni Papadakis, and others, who offered their insights on navigating the evolving job market and the critical role of workforce professionals in addressing these changes.
Another powerful session, Epidemic of Loneliness and Considerations for the Workplace, was led by Darrow Brown, Chief Inclusion, Belonging, and Well-Being Officer from the Washington State Department of Health. Brown discussed the growing epidemic of loneliness and isolation, citing the 2023 advisory released by U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy. The advisory highlighted the profound impact of loneliness on over half of the nation’s population, touching on its implications for health and well-being.
Conference Champions: Honoring the Sponsors Who Helped Made It Possible
The success of the event was made possible, in part, by the generous sponsorship from Fast Enterprises, Launch Pad, SharedWork, Greater Federal Way Chamber of Commerce, and the Washington State Employment Security Department. These organizations provided invaluable support, helping ensure the conference could continue to offer high-quality educational sessions, networking opportunities, and resources for workforce professionals. Their commitment to fostering innovation and professional growth underscores their dedication to advancing workforce development.
Looking Ahead
The 81st Annual Conference was more than just a gathering of workforce professionals; it was a celebration of the progress and future potential of workforce development. Acting chapter president Suzanne Nichols emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and continuous professional growth as key drivers of success in this field. Attendees left the event with new strategies, renewed energy, and valuable connections that will enhance their work for years to come.
For those who were unable to attend, the Washington State Chapter of IAWP will continue to offer educational and professional development opportunities throughout the year. Stay connected and look for future events by visiting www.iawponline.org.
This year’s conference was a resounding success, affirming IAWP’s Washington chapter’s ongoing commitment to supporting workforce development professionals in their mission to advance the future of work.