WTS Annual Conference Workshop Recap
By Audra Bandy, WTS-DC
Before the WTS Annual Conference begins in earnest, and before the inspiring keynote address, the conference holds two professional development workshops. This year’s theme of “Activate + Elevate: Our Future in Transportation” was incorporated throughout the conference, including Monday’s professional development workshops.
"Manager As Coach: How to Develop High-Performing Teams and Individuals" was facilitated by Marcy Schwab of Inspired Leadership. The participants learned about the difference between coaching, mentoring, and managing. Coaching develops a person to get better results and focuses on the "here and now." It is all about building trust, moving past assumptions, and learning how to listen more actively. The process of active listening includes intentionally choosing to listen, being curious, and listening for tone, not just words. This training provided several opportunities to talk with other participants in breakout rooms and implement what was taught. The groups were small so that everyone could participate and engage in a meaningful way with each other. Schwab also demonstrated an abbreviated, live coaching session with a fellow attendee so that all participants could see in action the skills they practiced.
"Female Rivalry, Learning to Embrace Collaboration Over Competition" was facilitated by Dr. Amber Tichenor of To Be Coaching + Consulting. Just like the prior workshop, this session emphasized the importance of trust. Dr. Tichenor began by explaining that how we see ourselves is a perception of how we see others. She also discussed organizational culture and the importance of psychological safety. It is vital that leadership within organizations endorse these ideas and that communication is clear and transparent. This workshop was also highly interactive. Small groups of three to four participants were able to discuss how they could personally, help to instill a collaborative environment and a culture of trust and transparency. Afterward, everyone gathered back into a large group and shared their thoughts with all of the participants. The discussions were insightful and honest and individuals left with actionable steps they could use to help manage conflict and build successful teams.
Each year the selection of professional development workshops change, but they are always a valuable way to improve yourself both professionally and personally.