Public Speaking Can Be Fun!
Who says it needs to be stressful to talk in front of a group of people? This session is all about building skills that will help you feel comfortable and confident leading the conversation as you advance in your career. Special guest speakers - see more below!
Speaking to Influence: Public Speaking & Advocacy for Transportation and Planning Professionals
Strong communication skills are essential for planners, engineers, and transportation professionals looking to make an impact. Join WTS Minnesota and the APA Minnesota Emerging Professionals Committee with featured presenters Tane Danger of Danger Boat Productions and Beth Plamondon from Toastmasters for an interactive workshop focused on building your public speaking skillset. Participants will gain practical tools for communicating with confidence, explore how advocacy shapes careers and public policy, and practice real-world skills through low-pressure, improv-based activities.
Whether you are new to presenting, looking to sharpen existing communication skills, or interested in becoming a more effective advocate within your profession, this workshop offers an engaging and supportive opportunity to learn, practice, and grow alongside fellow professionals from across the planning, transportation, and public policy communities.
The foundation skills will be delivered by Beth Plamondon, Distinguished Toastmaster and District 6 Club Growth Director, who brings extensive experience in helping professionals strengthen their communication and leadership abilities. The workshop will conclude with an engaging, hands-on practice session facilitated by Tane Danger of Danger Boat Productions. Through interactive exercises inspired by improvisation and audience engagement techniques, participants will have the opportunity to apply concepts discussed throughout the program in a supportive, low-pressure environment.
Meet Our Speakers
Tane Danger
Founder and Creative Director, Danger Boat Productions
Tane Danger is an improviser, facilitator, and communications professional known for helping organizations build stronger engagement, collaboration, and communication skills through interactive experiences. In addition, Tane is co-founder of Danger Boat Productions and The Theater of Public Policy and is a frequent keynote speaker, host, professional training creator & educator, and on-air commentator. Tane believes wholeheartedly in the art of improv and that it teaches skills that make one more tuned-in, empathetic, and overall, a better listener and communicator. Drawing on his background in improv and public policy, Tane designs workshops that help participants think on their feet, connect with audiences, and communicate more effectively in dynamic settings. He will facilitate the workshop's interactive practice session.
Beth Plamondon, DTM
District 6 Club Growth Director
Vice President of Membership, Tri-Dynamics Toastmasters
Beth Plamondon is a Distinguished Toastmaster and retired Program and Project Manager. Through her leadership roles with Toastmasters she has helped professionals build confidence, strengthen presentation skills, and become more effective communicators. As an IT Leader she has successfully delivered multi-year, multi-million dollar projects. Beth will lead the workshop's foundational public speaking segment and share practical strategies participants can apply in professional and public settings.
Hosted By:
WTS Minnesota and the APA Minnesota Emerging Professionals Committee.