event details

We all know “those people” — the ones who build trust quickly, create opportunities, lead effectively, and seem to move their careers and businesses forward with confidence. What sets them apart?

It is rarely talent alone. It is not luck. And it is not simply who they know. More often, their advantage comes from how they communicate, connect, and build relationships that create momentum.

In today’s fast-moving, hyper-connected world, many professionals are surrounded by people yet struggle to build the kind of meaningful connections that lead to trust, influence, collaboration, and growth. Poor communication, low engagement, and a lack of mentoring doesn’t just create frustration — it stalls careers, weakens teams, limits leadership impact, and makes it harder to retain good people.

In this lively and practical session, Dr. Wade will bring humor, insight, and real-world strategies to help professionals at every level strengthen their communication and connection skills. Whether you’re looking to expand your influence, build stronger professional relationships, mentor emerging talent, or create a more engaged team, Dr. Wade will give you tools you can begin using immediately.

In this fast-paced, interactive session, you’ll learn:

• Why communication and connection are often the hidden drivers behind career growth, leadership influence, and business success.
• What gets in the way of meaningful interpersonal engagement — and how to overcome it.
• Practical strategies to build trust, strengthen networking skills, and create stronger professional relationships.
• Simple mentoring approaches that help others grow, improve performance, and increase engagement.
• Clear next steps to become more intentional, more influential, and more effective in both work and life.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER:

Dr. Wade Larson – Senior Workforce Consultant/Owner, Optimal Talent Dynamics

Dr. Wade is a Senior Workforce Consultant and Owner of Optimal Talent Dynamic. He has worked with hundreds of organizations over the past 30 years as a consultant, HR executive, and coach – helping them to become their best and improve their culture, talent, and leadership capabilities.

Wade is also the Executive Director of the Production and Manufacturing Institute, a nonprofit that brings together manufacturers and the trades, educators, and the community to build a workforce-ready talent pipeline.  In addition, he has taught at several universities for over 25 years and currently serves as a faculty member for Washington State University in their MBA and undergraduate programs.

He lives in Spokane with his wife, Lauri, who spends most of her time spoiling six grandkids or managing the antics of her two Old English Sheepdogs, Hank and Maddie.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR: FAITH GROUP LLC