Spring HR Workshop: Learn, Connect, Lead

Spring HR Workshop: Learn, Connect, Lead

Thursday, May 14th,  9:45 AM - 3:30 PM Pacific Time
Northwest Career & Technical Academy, 2205 West Campus Place, Mount Vernon, WA 98273

Join us for a dynamic, in-person experience designed to bring HR and business professionals together from across the region. This Spring Workshop blends timely insights, practical strategies, and meaningful networking—creating space to learn from experts while building authentic connections in a fun, engaging environment. 

Workshop Agenda (9:45 AM – 3:30 PM)

• 9:45 – 10:00 AM | Welcome & Announcements — Erin Kuusela, Chapter President

• 10:00 – 10:45 AM | Speaker 1 — Jessi Beyer, Crisis Mental Health Professional & Author

• 10:45 – 10:55 AM | Break

• 10:55 – 11:40 AM | Speaker 2 — Scott Iddings, Northwest Workforce Council

• 11:40 – 11:50 AM | Break

• 11:50 AM – 12:35 PM | Speaker 3 — Toby Paterson, Regional Labor Economist (ESD)

• 12:35 – 1:30 PM | Lunch & Networking

• 1:30 – 2:15 PM | Speaker 4 — Gary Priam, Diventa Solutions

• 2:15 – 2:30 PM | Break

• 2:30 – 3:00 PM | Raffle & Closing Announcements - SHRM Skagit-Island Board

• 3:00 – 3:30 PM | Networking & Event Close

Session One

How Every HR Professional Should Handle a Workplace Mental Health Crisis

Presented by Jessi Beyer, Crisis Mental Health Professional & International Speaker

Workplace mental health crises are more common than many realize—and HR is often at the center of response. In this powerful and practical session, Jessi introduces her L.I.F.E. model for de-escalation and suicide prevention, equipping you with the tools to respond confidently and compassionately.

You’ll walk away with the ability to:

• Better understand the prevalence and impact of mental health challenges at work

• Recognize the limitations of traditional approaches like EAPs alone

• Apply a clear framework to support employees in moments of crisis

About the Presenter: 

Jessi Beyer, MHP, C-RFA, Crisis Mental Health Professional, Jessi Beyer International.

Jessi Beyer is an international TEDx speaker, #1 best-selling author of How to Heal, and a crisis mental health professional embedded with law enforcement, serving as a negotiator with Region 1 SWAT. Recognized as the 2025 Best International Mental Health Speaker by Global Health and Pharma, she has been featured in over 200 media outlets and has spoken to thousands worldwide on peer support, suicide prevention, and verbal de-escalation. Jessi holds master’s degrees in critical psychology and human services from Prescott College and military psychology from Adler University.

Session Two

Public Workforce Programs and Resources

Presented by Scott Iddings, Director of Program Strategy & Business Development, Northwest Workforce Council

Discover how to leverage your local workforce ecosystem to strengthen hiring, retention, and workforce planning. This session provides a practical look at how employers can partner with workforce boards and the WorkSource system to build stronger talent pipelines.

You’ll learn how to:

• Engage effectively with your local Workforce Development Board

• Utilize WorkSource services for recruiting, training, and retention

• Leverage sector partnerships to solve shared workforce challenges

About the Presenter: 

Scott Iddings, Director of Program Strategy & Business Development, Northwest Workforce Council

Scott Iddings brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in television and radio before transitioning into workforce development. In his current role, he partners with employers to strengthen talent strategies by connecting them to recruitment support, workforce training resources, and labor market insights. Scott specializes in helping organizations navigate public workforce systems and build sustainable talent pipelines through strategic collaboration.

Session Three

North West Regional Labor Economics

Presented by Toby Paterson, Regional Labor Economist, Washington State Employment Security Department

Gain a data-driven perspective on the regional labor market. Toby will walk through key trends in occupations and industries, helping you better understand the forces shaping talent availability in Northwest Washington.

You’ll gain insight into:

• Local labor market trends and economic shifts

• Occupation and industry changes impacting your workforce

• Where and how to source reliable labor market data

About the Presenter: 

Toby Paterson, Regional Labor Economist, Washington State Employment Security Department

Toby Paterson is a Regional Labor Economist with over 20 years of experience in economics and econometrics. He supports Northwest Washington by analyzing labor market trends, industry shifts, and occupational data to inform workforce and economic development strategies. Toby is passionate about making complex data accessible and actionable for employers, policymakers, and community partners.

Session Four

The AI Genie Is Out of the Bottle: HR’s Role in Responsible AI Adoption

Presented by Garry Priam, Managing Partner, Diventa Solutions

AI is already transforming the workplace—and HR plays a critical role in shaping how it’s used. This engaging session explores the opportunities, risks, and responsibilities of AI in HR, with a focus on maintaining trust, fairness, and transparency.

You’ll explore how to:

• Identify where AI is already influencing HR functions

• Recognize risks such as bias and ethical concerns

• Implement responsible governance practices for AI adoption

About the Presenter: 

Garry Priam, B.Sc., Prosci®, Managing Partner, Diventa Solutions, LLC

Garry Priam is an international speaker, author, and organizational development consultant focused on helping individuals and organizations reach their highest potential. With a background that spans computer science, advanced project management, and change management, Garry brings a unique perspective to leadership and innovation. A former professional basketball player who lived in Italy for nine years, he is now a sought-after advisor on artificial intelligence, leadership, and team development.

Built for Connection

This isn’t just a workshop—it’s a space to engage. With dedicated networking time throughout the day, you’ll have the opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and connect with peers facing similar challenges across the region.

Multiple HRCI and SHRM recertification credits available.