74th Annual

Washington State

Educational Conference

Partners in Progress Leading the Way

May 4-5, 2017 The Heathman Lodge

7801 NE Greenwood Drive Vancouver, WA 98662

www.heathmanlodge.com

Welcome to Vancouver!

A Message from the President Dear Colleagues, Each year, Employment Security employees have many opportunities for professional development through a variety of educational classes and conferences. The International Association of Workforce Professionals (IAWP) is one venue in which employees can grow their skills in both personal and professional development. One of IAWP’s goals is to provide continuing education and professional development for its members who work in public and private workforce development programs, and related fields that support those efforts. I have been a member of IAWP for 30 years and I have found it to be a very rewarding opportunity that has enhanced my own skills. I have met great people over the years and established lifelong friendships. I plan on being a very active retiree in this organization. Over the next two days, you’ll have multiple opportunities to hear a variety of educational topics and listen to some dynamic speakers. At the end of this conference, I hope you leave feeling that you have gained something valuable from the time you spent with us. Thank you for attending IAWP’s 74th Washington State Conference.

Sheila Sheila Johnson-Teeter, President

IAWP Washington State Chapter

Schedule at a Glance

Wednesday, May 3 1:00 p.m. State Chapter Executive Board meeting Heathman Lodge, Chief Comcomly Room

6:00 p.m. Early bird registration and reception (light hors d’oeuvres) Heathman Lodge, Governor’s Suite

Thursday, May 4 - Klickitat/Cowlitz Room 7:30 a.m. Registration and continental breakfast 8:00 a.m. Opening ceremonies and welcome Sheila Johnson-Teeter, President, IAWP WA Chapter

8:20 a.m. Introduction and welcome to Vancouver Mayor Timothy Leavitt, City of Vancouver

8:30 a.m. Icebreaker Chad Pearson and Billie Wright, Employment Security Department

9:00 a.m. Update on IAWP International Cheryl Brown, Incoming International President, IAWP

9:45 a.m. Break 10:00 a.m. Keynote address “Partners in Progress - Leading the Way” Brian Mark, Department of Social and Health Services

11:00 a.m. “Understanding your Strengths” Carl Greer, Washington State Department of Transportation

Noon Lunch - Annual membership meeting and elections 1:30 p.m. “Successful Re-entry” panel Kathy Gundlach, Department of Corrections Jim Harms, Department of Corrections Lucienne Banning, Department of Corrections Division of Correctional Industries Lauren Robbins, Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council

2:45 p.m. “Employer Engagement” panel Stacey Anderson, Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council Donna Hughes, Employment Security Department Scot Walstra, Cowlitz Economic Development Council Patrick Whalin, Department of Social and Health Services

3:30 p.m. Break

Schedule at a Glance 3:45 p.m. “Keeping the Fun Alive!” Billie Wright, Employment Security Department

4:45 p.m. Wrap-up and housekeeping

Friday, May 5 - Klickitat/Cowlitz Room 7:30 a.m. Registration and continental breakfast 8:00 a.m. Welcome back and housekeeping 8:15 a.m. “State of the Employment Security Department from the Human Resources Perspective” Ron Marshall, Employment Security Department

8:45 a.m. “The Role of Community and Technical Colleges in Washington’s Workforce Development” Will Durden, State Board for Community and Technical Colleges Dr. Erin Frasier, State Board for Community and Technical Colleges

9:45 a.m. Break 10:00 a.m. Veterans Services panel Sam Mitchell, Employment Security Department Michael Benko, Employment Security Department Monique Martin, Employment Security Department

11:00 a.m. Career Readiness Project Joel Getzendanner, Employment Security Department

11:45 a.m. Awards lunch 1:00 p.m. Legislative Update Nick Streuli, Employment Security Department

2:00 p.m. “Customer First Initiative/Human Centered Design” Keoni Fontaine, Employment Security Department Stephen Henry, Employment Security Department Jill Will, Employment Security Department

3:15 p.m. “Leveraging Partnerships for Amazing Results” KaKela Dequise-Hall, CEO, KD Hall Foundation

4:15 p.m. Wrap-up, acknowledgements, silent auction

Keynote Presentation Partners in Progress “Leading the Way” Brian M. Mark Support Enforcement Officer Department of Social and Health Services Brian has a sincere passion for personal and professional development. He holds several leadership roles in his professional life including leading a statewide workgroup, where he designed, developed, and deployed a statewide team to address the absence of a Customer Service Model within the Division of Child Support and as the Chair for the City of Olympia Planning Commission. In addition to his professional endeavors, Brian has played a key role in helping launch the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion campaign in the Economic Services Administration. In the non-profit sector, he is on the Board of Directors for City Gates Ministries, serving the homeless community in Thurston County. He serves as the President of the Northeast Neighborhood Association in Olympia and as an Advisory Committee Basic Needs Panel Member with the Community Investment Partnership for the United Way of Thurston County. Brian earned his undergraduate degree in Communications from Western Washington University, Black Belt certification in Lean Six Sigma from the University of Washington, and has his Master of Science in Management and Leadership from Western Governors University. Additionally, he is trained in Crucial Conversations

® and is a trained Public Speaking Instructor.

www.Facebook.com/IawpWashingtonChapter

Schedule and Agenda Wednesday, May 3- Klickitat/Cowlitz Room 1 to 4 p.m. State Chapter Executive Board meeting, Chief Comcomly Room

6 to 9 p.m. Early Bird Reception and Registration, Governor’s Suite (Light hor d’oeuvres will be served.)

Thursday, May 4- Klickitat/Cowlitz Room 7:30 to 8 a.m. Registration and continental breakfast, Klickitat/Cowlitz Room

8 to 8:20 a.m. Opening ceremonies Welcome: Sheila Johnston-Teeter, State President, IAWP Co-Emcees: Billie Wright and Chad Pearson, Employment Security Department Presentation of Colors: Washington Air National Guard Star Spangled Banner: Cheryl Waters, Employment Security Department

8:20 to 8:30 a.m. “Welcome and introduction to Vancouver” The Honorable Timothy Leavitt Mayor, City of Vancouver

8:30 to 9:00 a.m. Icebreaker Chad Pearson and Billie Wright, Employment Security Department

9:00 to 9:45 a.m. “Update on International Association of Workforce Professionals” Cheryl Brown Incoming International President, IAWP

9:45 to 10 a.m. Break

10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Keynote address: “Partners in Progress - Leading the Way” Brian M. Mark Support Enforcement Officer, Department of Social and Health Services (See bio opposite page.)

Schedule and Agenda

Thursday, May 4 continued 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. “Understanding Your Strengths” Carl Greer

12:00 to 1:30 p.m. Annual membership lunch and elections

1:30 to 2:45 p.m. Panel Discussion: “Successful Re-Entry”

Mary K. ‘Kathy” Gundlach Employment and Education Navigator/Corrections Specialist Washington State Department of Corrections Jim Harms Re-entry System Administrator Washington State Department of Corrections Lauren Robbins Workforce Development Specialist Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council Lucienne Banning Workforce Development Manager Correctional Industries, Washington State Department of Corrections

2:45 to 3:30 p.m. Panel Discussion: “Employer Engagement”

Stacey Anderson Program Manager for Youth and Specialized Populations Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council Donna Hughes WorkSource Specialist, Business Services Employment Security Department Scot Walstra Vice President Cowlitz Economic Development Council Patrick Whalin Workforce Development Manager Department of Social and Health Services

Schedule and Agenda Thursday, May 4 continued 3:30 to 3:45 p.m. Break

3:45 to 4:45 p.m. “Keeping the Fun Alive” Billie Wright Leadership Development, Engagement, Training and Development Manager Employment Security Department

4:45 to 5 p.m. Wrap-up and housekeeping

Friday, May 5- Klickitat/Cowlitz Room 7:30 to 8 a.m. Registration and continental breakfast

8 to 8:15 a.m. Welcome back and housekeeping

8:15 to 8:45 a.m. “The State of the ESD from the Human Resources Perspective” Ron Marshall Assistant Commissioner of Human Resources Division Employment Security Department

8:45 to 9:45 a.m. “The Role of Community and Technical Colleges in Washington’s Workforce Development”

William ’Will’ S. Durden Policy Associate for Guided and I-Best Pathways Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges Dr. Erin Fraiser Policy Associate for Workforce Education Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges

9:45 to 10 a.m. Break

Schedule and Agenda Friday, May 5 continued 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Panel Discussion: “Veterans Services”

Sam Mitchell Veterans Program Coordinator Employment Security Department Michael Benko One-Stop Operator Employment Security Department Monique Martin Veterans Representative Employment Security Department

11:00 to 11:45 a.m. “The Career Readiness Project” Joel Getzendanner Deputy Assistant Commissioner Employment Security Department

11:45 to 1:00 p.m. Awards Lunch

1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Legislative Update Nick Streuli Legislative and Executive Operations Director Employment Security Department

2:00 to 3:45 p.m. Panel Discussion: “Customer First Initiative/Human Centered Design”

Keoni Fontaine Director of Lean Innovation and Organizational Transformation Employment Security Department Stephen Henry Employment Security Program Coordinator Employment Security Department Jill Will Manager, Training, Technology and Planning/Customer First Employment Security Department

Schedule and Agenda Friday, May 5 continued 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. “Leveraging Our Partnerships for Amazing Results” Kakela Dequise-Hall Chief Executive Officer KDHall Foundation

4:15 to 4:30 p.m. Wrap-up, acknowledgments, silent auction

Thank you!

For supporting the International Association of

Workforce Professionals Washington Chapter

Biographies of presenters Sheila Johnson-Teeter Commissioner's Office Constituent/Customer Service Employment Security Department

Sheila began her career with Employment Security Department in Aberdeen at the Aberdeen Job Service Center (now WorkSource Grays Harbor) in August 1985. She left Aberdeen and was promoted to the Southwest Region in November 1993. In addition to Southwest Region, she worked in The Office of Regional Affairs (aka WorkSource Operations Division and now Employment Connections) and has served under several Commissioners in the Commissioner’s office for the last 16 years. Sheila retired on April 30, 2017. She resides in Chehalis, WA and has seven grandchildren: four boys and three girls. She enjoys old movies, reading non-fiction, home decorating and traveling. Sheila has been a long-time member of IAWP and currently serves at the Washington State Chapter President until June 30, 2017. She also volunteers as a Long-Term Care

Ombudsman with the State of Washington. The Honorable Timothy Leavitt Mayor The City of Vancouver

Tim Leavitt, employed by PBS Engineering and Environmental, was appointed to the City Council in January 2003 to fill a vacancy, and elected for full terms in November 2003, and 2007. In November 2009 was elected to a four-year term as Mayor, and was re-elected as Mayor in November 2013. Leavitt has been a resident of Vancouver since 1980 and is a graduate of Fort Vancouver High School, Clark Community College and Washington State University, with a master’s in Environmental Engineering.

Chad Pearson WorkSourceWA.com Outreach Manager Employment Security Department

Chad grew up in Gig Harbor, WA and is a proud WSU Cougar. He likes 60s muscle cars and dislikes lasagna. He is married to Jennifer, and has two children, 9 and 10 years old. Prior to joining the Employment Security Department, Chad represented two different private employers in the hospitality industry up and down the West Coast for 20 years. He exchanged the sunshine and smog of southern California for the rain and fog of Olympia in 2011. Today, he travels Washington promoting WorkSourceWA.com to employers.

Biographies of presenters Billie Wright Leadership Development, Engagement, Training and Development Manager Employment Security Department

Before joining the Employment Security Department, Billie worked at the Department of Labor and Industries as a Senior Human Resource Consultant. Billie has worked in the human resources field for over 20 years, much of that time spent in the private sector and municipal government. In her current position, Billie has helped the organization leverage diversity, inclusion and engagement by introducing respect as the foundation for creating and sustaining a culture that produces a highly engaged workforce. Billie is a Master Certified Engagement Curriculum Facilitator, nationally certified Crucial Conversations® instructor, certified change management practitioner and also certified by Human Synergistics International® in a 360 leadership and management assessment tool that measures the impact of leaders and managers on organizational performance. Billie is also a skilled facilitator and brings experience in coaching, change management, team building and conflict resolution. Billie hails from Louisiana by way of Texas and now considers Washington state her home away from home. Billie is a graduate of Western Governor’s University, holding a bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management and a master’s degree in Management and Leadership. In 2016, Billie received a Public Service Recognition Week Leadership Award for her work and leadership at ESD.

Cheryl Brown Supervisor, Shared Work and Job Search Review Employment Security Department

Cheryl is currently the supervisor of Washington state Shared Work and Job Search Review units. She has worked for Employment Security Department for over 20 years. She also worked for Washington State Senate, Secretary of State’s office and Administrative Office of the Courts. Cheryl has been a member of International Association of Workforce Professional for almost 20 years and have served in several positions: Washington state level as the Local Jurisdictional Rep, Education Chair, Treasurer, Vice President, President and Past President. On the International Level, Cheryl has served as District 7 Director, on the education committee, as Vice President and currently President Elect. She will take office as President in July 2017. Her motto is “Invest in yourself for your professional and personal growth though IAWP.”

Biographies of presenters Carl Greer Organizational Change Management (OCM) Manager Washington State Department of Transportation

Before becoming Washington State Department of Transportation’s OCM Manager, Carl was its Payroll Manager. Before joining the Department of Transportation, he worked at the Department of Labor and Industries as a Payroll Manager. Carl has worked in the accounting field for over 25 years and OCM for seven years — all of that time spent in state government. Carl’s facilitates Strength Finders courses with intact work teams at the Washington State Department of Transportation and other agencies. Carl’s number one strength is development. Strength Finders ties in closely with his current role as Change Manager in implementing change management practices. He is also a skilled facilitator and brings experience in change management, team building and Crucial Conversations.® Carl originally hails from Panama, but has lived in Lacey, WA for over 35 years where he continues to raise his two kids, ages 18 and 20. Carl’s father (Calvin William Greer, Sr.) retired from the Employment Security Department many years ago so he enjoys continuing his father’s work there. Carl’s greatest achievement besides his two kids is that he never received a college degree, and worked his way from the mailroom at the Office of Financial Management to being payroll manager for two large state agencies and now Organizational Change Management manager. In addition to being a certified Change Management practitioner, Carl is also a nationally certified trainer in Crucial Conversations.

Mary K. ‘Kathy” Gundlach Employment & Education Navigator/Corrections Specialist Washington State Department of Corrections

Kathy’s re-entry work is focused on assisting justice-involved individuals in reaching their employment and education goals and planning their career path, which includes overcoming barriers particular to this population. She has worked with Employment Security Department including roles as Employment Specialist, WIA and Trade Act Case Manager, and performing Quality Assurance while located at WorkSource offices. Currently Kathy is employed with the Department of Corrections as an Employment and Education Navigator for the federal Strength in Families grant funded by ReFORM through the Administration of Children and Families (ACF). She has nine years’ experience as a workforce professional, and currently serves as the IAWP Southwest Subchapter President. Kathy earned a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education from Utah State University and master’s degree in Management and Organizational Leadership from Warner Pacific College.

Biographies of presenters Jim Harms Re-entry System Administrator Washington State Department of Corrections

Over the past 29 years Jim has committed his academic and professional pursuits to public service in the field of adult corrections. His interest in, and knowledge of building community, faith-based and cross-agency partnerships and program development with a special emphasis on community corrections and re-entry has been building steadily over the last three decades. After a 20-year career in County Corrections in King and Snohomish County as a Program Administrator and Commander over classification, Work Release, Offender Programs and Contracts, Jim Harms left County Corrections for an opportunity to work in State Corrections. In March 2009, he was appointed to the Northwest Regional Administrator position with Washington State Department of Corrections Community Corrections Division. Between 2009-2014, Jim was responsible for leading community corrections field operations in an area that included King, Snohomish, Skagit, Whatcom, Jefferson, Clallam, San Juan and Island counties. In 2014, Jim was appointed to the Re-entry Services Manager position to oversee the Second Chance Grant implementation to develop strategies and leverage resources that will best support the successful transition of incarcerated individuals from prisons and jails to the community in order to reduce recidivism. This is a multi-jurisdictional initiative to improve re-entry planning and transitional services for those persons released from either prison or jail. The primary goal is to improve public safety through supporting successful transition and sustainable re-entry. Jim was the primary lead in building a successful collaboration with criminal justice, faith-based and community partners that involved the development and implementation of a joint-jurisdictional re-entry initiative to improve re-entry planning and transitional services for persons being released from prison or jail. In January 2016, Jim was appointed at the Re-entry Systems Administrator, Re-entry Division to oversee transitional services, housing voucher program and the justice involved veterans network of programs and services. Jim is a veteran community corrections professional with a track record of success who is dedicated to achieving the Department of Corrections’ mission of encouraging positive interaction with the community as we strive to promote public safety, community protection, and public understanding. Over the course of his career, Jim has developed a reputation for forging strong working relationships with criminal justice, public health and humans services partners to create cross-system collaboration that has contributed to successful offender re-entry.

Biographies of presenters

Lucienne Banning Manager of Workforce Development Washington State Department of Corrections, Division of Correctional Industries

Ms. Lucienne Banning, a lifelong Washingtonian, has worked at Correctional Industries for nearly six years and enjoys assisting in transitioning Correctional Industry Workers skills, abilities and talents to gainful employment in their communities when they release.

Lauren Robbins Workforce Development Specialist for Preparation for Re-entry Employment Program Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council

Prior to her work with Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council, Lauren worked as a contractor with Labor and Industries as a Re-employment Specialist, and with the Employment Security Department assisting injured workers with their return to work. She also held a position with the Employment Security Department as a WorkSource Specialist in Thurston County. A native of Louisiana, Lauren received her bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Southeastern Louisiana University and her master’s degree in Social Work from Southern University in New Orleans. She has worked in several social service arenas providing services to individuals with mental health and chemical dependency issues as well as disability and criminal background barriers. She has a passion for working with individuals re-entering the community providing barrier removal and support services for employment to assist in their transition after incarceration. She is an active member and facilitator for South Puget Sound Community Partners for Transitional Solutions which consists of providers, professionals and consumers working together to advocate for individuals re-entering to the community.

Stacey Anderson Program Manager for Youth and Specialized Populations Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council

Stacey began her career in Workforce Development in 1986 under the JTPA Legislation. She began her career at VADIS offering workforce development services to individuals with disabilities. She later worked 21 years for the Pierce County Workforce Development Council/Workforce Central in various capacities providing employment and training services within the Youth, Adult, Dislocated Worker and Trade Act Programs. Stacey also designed and implemented the Youth Building Tacoma and City of Tacoma Youth Internship Programs. She also worked for several years at Workforce Central as its Youth Program Services and Youth Initiatives Coordinator. She has been with Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council for the past six years providing workforce development services for the Heroes at Home 2 and Camo 2 Commerce programs on JBLM, and recently managed the Journey 2 Jobs Program. Stacey was born and raised in Tacoma, WA. She has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Counseling from Western Washington University, a master’s degree in Human Resource Management from Chapman University, and a Career Technical Education Teaching Certificate in Work based Learning/Diversified Occupations. She is a Certified Workforce Development Professional through the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals. Stacey currently lives in Olympia with her husband.

Biographies of presenters

Donna Hughes WorkSource Specialist, Business Services Employment Security Department

Donna has 12 years with Employment Security Department. Eleven of those years have been in the business services area. During her years with the Employment Security Department, Donna has developed many continuing relationships and has been the voice of WorkSource within the business community. She has worked on developing On-the-Job Training (OJT) slots for job seekers as well as developing internships, and incumbent worker training.

Scot Walstra Vice President Cowlitz Economic Development Council

Scot directly assists businesses considering moving to Cowlitz County and existing companies seeking to expand. Prior to joining Cowlitz Economic Development Council, Scot served as Director of Planning and Development for the Port of Camas-Washougal and at NW Natural Gas as a Commercial/Industrial Business Manager and Director of Business Development in Clark County. Scot brings 30 years of Business Development, Acquisition, Marketing, and Construction experience to the CEDC. Scot is a NW Native and has associates degrees in Management/Supervision and Industrial Technology from Portland Community College.

Patrick Whalin Program Administrator Alternative Solutions, Division of Child Support, Department of Social and Health Services

Patrick brings over two decades of experience with the Division of Child Support to his role as Program Administrator for the Alternative Solutions Program. He helps to support the changing culture within Division of Child Services through a commitment to assisting parents via engagement and compassionate customer service. His goal is to help Alternative Solutions expand its menu of services for parents facing barriers so they find employment and better ways to support their families. Patrick’s long tenure in supervisory duties, program development, project management, and career development programs for employees have helped fuel his passion for assisting more Department of Social and Health Services professionals toward connecting struggling, low-income parents to community partners and programs that make a difference. He has visited almost every prison, and many of the jails in our state to meet directly with parents, learning exactly what they need to successfully transition back into the community and avoid cycles of recidivism. Patrick graduated from Olympia High School, earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Southern California, is a dedicated father, semi-professional musician, and is a proud Seattle Seahawks season ticket holder since 1999.

Biographies of presenters

Ron Marshall Assistant Commissioner of Human Resources Division Employment Security Department

Before beginning his legal and human resources phase of his career, Ron was employed as a civilian with the U.S. Defense Department. He worked for the U.S. Navy in the San Francisco Bay area as a supervisor and project manager assigned to nuclear reactor overhaul and repair projects. In 1995, as the result of a layoff due to the base closure, Ron accepted a layoff option to the Public Works Department at Ft. Lewis where he served in various roles while he attended law school. Ron left Ft. Lewis to begin his legal career as a civil deputy prosecuting attorney for Skagit County. Prior to joining the Employment Security Department in June of 2012, Ron served as a labor negotiator for the Office of Financial Management/Labor Relations Section where he was the negotiator for Employment Security Department and the Washington State Patrol among other agencies. His other state service was as an Assistant Attorney General with the Labor and Personnel Division. Between his position as an AAG and a labor negotiator, Ron served as a civilian labor and employment law attorney with the Office of the Staff Judge Advocate at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Ron also served as the Labor Relations Chief with the Joint Base’s Civilian Personnel Advisory Center prior to returning to employment with the State of Washington. Ron received his B.S. degree cum laude and with distinction, in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resource Management and Organizational Behavior from California State University Sonoma in 1995. He received his law degree cum laude, from Seattle University School of Law in 2003. Ron was admitted to the Washington State Bar in 2004. Ron has been married to his wife, Sue, for almost 41 years. They have two children and eight grandchildren. Until old age and injuries caught up with him, Ron enjoyed playing softball and basketball. He now concentrates on his golf game.

William ‘Will’ S. Durden Policy Associate for Guided and I-Best Pathways Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges

William S. Durden is the Policy Associate for Guided and I-BEST Pathways in Basic Education for Adults at the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges. His primary responsibilities include supporting and scaling up I-BEST and pathway programming, with the ultimate goal that all adult Washingtonians will have access to innovative, high quality education programs that provide the knowledge, skills, and credentials necessary for securing family sustaining employment that strengthens the state and local economies. In addition, he supports the development and expansion of I-BEST nationwide, having provided I-BEST training and technical assistance to 18 states and counting. Key projects include supporting Jobs for the Future’s Accelerating Opportunity initiative through training of faculty and administration in the I-BEST model. A former I-BEST instructor, William served as English faculty at Clark College for six years. He earned a master’s in English Studies from Western Washington University (2008) and a bachelor’s in English from Washington State University (2005).

Biographies of presenters

Dr. Erin Frasier Policy Associate for Workforce Education Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges

Erin’s policy work is focused on workforce education issues concerning access to education and support services for low-income populations and she oversees administration of the WorkFirst (TANF) and BFET (SNAP E&T) programming at the community and technical colleges in Washington. She has over 10 years of experience in the community college system, including roles as adjunct faculty for basic education, an Associate Dean for Workforce and Continuing Education and an economic development partner. Erin contributed to the development of the state’s WIOA plan and continues to participate in implementation committees. Her recently published research focused on the labor market responsiveness of Washington’s Community and Technical Colleges. Erin earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Portland State University and a doctorate of Education in Organizational Leadership at Brandman University.

Sam Mitchell Veterans Program Coordinator Employment Security Department

Since September 2013, Sam Mitchell has been the Veterans Program Coordinator. He delivers support, develops or interprets policy and provides guidance to 47 Veterans Representatives and Local Veterans Employment Representatives across 28 WorkSource locations. Sam also oversees the $4.5 million Jobs for Veterans state grant. Previously, he was the Disabled Veterans Outreach Provider for Cowlitz and Wahkiakum counties, where he spent three years delivering employment services to local veterans and qualified spouses. In this position, he also interacted with community businesses and veteran agencies to promote the hiring and support of clients and veterans in general. Prior to his employment with Washington state, Sam worked in Human Resources for Red Lion Hotel Kelso for nearly three years, where he oversaw all recruitment, hiring, compliance and training programs for 80 employees. After 25 years, Sam retired from the Air Force in 2007 at the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. His military career included tours in the Pacific, Europe, Middle East, and the U.S., culminating in his selection and service as the Regional Functional Manager for 1,500 communications and information technology specialists across Europe. A native of Kelso, WA, Sam graduated from Kelso High School in 1982. He has an Information Systems Bachelors of Technology degree from Peru State College, Nebraska. He has three daughters: Dianne, Amber, and Cathy.

Biographies of presenters

Michael Benko One-Stop Operator Employment Security Department

Michael E. Benko was born and raised in Cleveland, OH. He attended Parma Senior High School and entered the U.S. Navy following graduation in 1979. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Excelsior College in May 2009. Michael completed military basic training in Orlando, FL followed by Basic Enlisted Submarine School in Groton, CT. He completed Strategic Weapons Systems Electronics and Fire Control Technician Ballistic schools at Naval Guided Missile School Dam Neck, VA, and various service schools at Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarine Training Center in Charleston, SC. Master Chief Benko was selected as the Distinguished Graduate for class 78 at the Navy’s Senior Enlisted Academy in 1997. Michael’s first assignment was onboard USS Von Steuben, where he qualified in submarines. Other sea assignments included USS Canopus and USS Florida. Shore assignments included Navy Recruiting District Cleveland, Ohio and Submarine Squadron Seventeen. Master Chief Benko served as Chief of the Boat onboard USS Michigan and as Command Master Chief of Submarine Squadron Seventeen. He served as the Pacific Fleet, Submarine Force Master Chief in Pearl Harbor, HI from January 2004 to August 2006, and as the Command Master Chief of Navy Recruiting District Portland, OR from September 2006 until September 2009. Michael was hired by the State of Washington, Employment Security Department, as a Disabled Veteran Outreach Program Specialist, then later as a Local Veterans Employment Representative where he assisted veterans in their transition from military assignment and employers in finding qualified veteran candidates. On March 1, 2017, Michael was hired as the One-Stop Operator for the Vancouver and Cowlitz-Wahkiakum WorkSource offices.

Monique Martin Veterans Representative Employment Security Department

Monique Martin is a Veteran Case Manager and Advocate who works with veterans of all eras to find their employment niche. She knows that there are many assumptions about veterans and believes each one can be seen as an individual and appreciated for their unique skills, abilities and experiences. In her position at WorkSource since 2011, Monique has worked to prepare her clients to be self-reliant, resilient and able to compete for positions on their own merit. A veteran herself, Monique has recruited, trained and guided many in her 26 years of service in the Army and she proudly managed the Personnel and IT sections for the 104th Division before retiring in 2013. Monique holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences concentrated on Personnel Psychology and Human Resource Management from Washington State University.

Biographies of presenters

Joel Getzendanner Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Workforce Initiatives Employment Security Department

Joel works on special projects that involve multiple divisions or multiple agencies. Currently, he leads the development of sharable software tools to support career exploration and career connected learning. Prior to joining the Employment Security Department, Joel was vice president of a major private foundation in the Midwest, focusing on workforce development policy and K-12 education reform. He also managed the endowment of a New York based national foundation, developing strategies for social-purpose investing. Most recently, Joel provided a broad range of advisory services. Projects included two software start-ups on privacy-supporting architectures, a national union for “gig economy” workers, and a San Diego-based family foundation focused on cross-cultural communication. He earned a BA at Dartmouth College and an MBA at the University of Chicago.

Nick Streuli Legislative and Executive Operations Director Employment Security Department

Nick Streuli was appointed in October 2016. Prior to accepting this role, he worked for the Employment Security Department for over seven years, joining the agency in April 2009. Nick has served the agency in a variety of roles including staff to the Unemployment Insurance Director and most recently as the Special Policy Assistant to the Commissioner and Federal Government Liaison. As part of his role with the Employment Security Department, Nick works with the legislature on unemployment insurance, workforce development, and paid family leave issues. This includes providing technical assistance to members and stakeholders on legislation, reviewing the impact and effectiveness of strategies contained in the current state laws, and pursuing legislation where appropriate to further connect employers and job seekers — supporting transitions to new jobs and empowering careers. Nick grew up in Olympia, but was born in Ellensburg, WA in the heart of Kittitas County and home of the world famous Ellensburg Rodeo. In 2015, he married his best friend Christina. They live in Tumwater, WA with their son, James, and enjoy staying active, getting outdoors, and spending time at the baseball field.

Biographies of presenters

Keoni Fontaine Director of Lean Innovation and Organizational Transformation Employment Security Department

Keoni has over 16 years of Washington state government experience. Prior to joining the Employment Security Department, he worked at the Department of Retirement Systems as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt working on Lean transformation and Business Process Mapping. With the Employment Security Department, Keoni has spent the past three years as the Director of Lean Innovation and Organizational Transformation in Employment Connections. With his team, Keoni’s most recent focus has been on Customer First and building a Lean culture. His experience in continuous process improvement and change management makes him a significant contributor in Employment Connections’ Customer First efforts. Keoni has received certifications in the following areas:

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification through University of Washington

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification through University of Washington

PROSCI Change Management Practitioner

LUMA Human Centered Design Practitioner

Stephen Henry Employment Security Program Coordinator, Unemployment Insurance Tax and Wage Employment Security Department

Through Stephen’s position, he provides senior level professional unemployment insurance tax services to the Washington state business community, reporting agents, out of state businesses, other state and federal agencies and unemployment benefit recipients. In addition, Stephen currently is managing and supporting an Account Management Center staff of 19. Prior to joining state service, he spent 10 years working for Ecova, a sustainability and energy management company based out of Spokane. Recently, Stephen earned his Lean Six Sigma Greenbelt and was certified through Prosci as a change management practitioner for the Employment Security Department’s Tax and Wage Division. Stephen has been involved with the Customer First Initiative since July 2016 when it was first introduced to the Tax and Wage Division’s management team. He has been an active participant with the Tax and Wage Divisional team since November 2016 when the team was formed. Using the idea of “one call handles all,” the effort has begun to change the Tax and Wage Division culture to better focus on providing the excellent service and high satisfaction the customers deserve and expect.

Biographies of presenters

Jill Will Manager, Training, Technology and Planning/Customer First, Unemployment Insurance Employment Security Department

Jill Will is currently the manager of the Customer First Initiative for the Unemployment Insurance Benefits Division. She also manages the Training, Technology and Planning staff. From 2013-2016 she managed the Intake Unit at the Lacey Claims Center. From 2009-2013 she was the Director of Unemployment Insurance Performance Management, a role that evolved over time to meet the needs of the assistant commissioner for both operations and policy support. Prior to 2009, she served as the Performance Management Coordinator in the Budget and Performance Management Division. Jill also served three sessions as the Employment Security Department’s legislative liaison. Jill came to the Employment Security Department after eight years as executive director of the Jail Industries Board, a Governor-appointed state board assisting cities and counties with inmate work programs. Jill’s government experience also includes eight years with the Washington State Department of Corrections, where she held several management positions within the Division of Correctional Industries. She has also worked in not-for-profit and professional associations, and was a small business owner. Jill is a 1983 graduate of Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. and a holds a 2005 Masters in Public Administration from the University of Washington. She is a Lean Green Belt, certified Prosci change management practitioner and is working on her LUMA human centered design certification

KaKela ‘Kela’ D. Hall Chief Executive Officer KD Hall Foundation

Kela is the epitome of a networking queen. Her production and problem solving skills are not the only thing that sets her apart. With years of experience in higher education, communication management, and strategic professional planning, Kela is equipped to handle a copious amount of tasks with integrity and poise. She is a visionary, a creator, and a leader in workforce development. Her high energy and hardworking core keeps her motivated while assisting clients to achieve their professional goals. Kela co-founded KD Hall Communications in 2013 and has since been extremely impactful across corporate and government sectors. As a result, Kela and the KD Hall team have been invited to the White House, received three proclamations, and successfully guided 12 students through an internship for the Inauguration of Women on the Rise: Season 1. Women on the Rise addresses equity for women, which is a very important cause to Kela and KD Hall Communications. She has a self-proclaimed “raging futuristic old school vibe” that distinguishes her from the rest. As Kela continues to grow with KD Hall, she also hopes to increase the reach of the company. Goals of global growth, college partnerships, and educational facilities are only the beginning!

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Workforce Professional Development Program (WPDP) PDP is a series of study guides and examinations designed to measure and recognize an individual's knowledge of workforce development programs. Created in 1988, WPDP gives workforce professionals an opportunity to enhance knowledge and career growth. Several State Workforce Development Agency training programs have incorporated WPDP and recognize it as a useful tool. Resource guides and online exams currently available include: History of Workforce Development, Unemployment Insurance, Labor Market Information, and Business and Job Seeker.

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For more information, email Steve Ruggles, Education Committee, at SRuggles@ESD.WA.GOV.