Local Professionals Grow as Leaders in Essential Skills Workshop

Across industries, employers continue to face a common challenge: employees are often promoted into management roles without formal training in communication, leadership, and people development. These “people leaders” play a critical role in employee retention, workplace culture, and overall organizational success, yet many are left to learn these skills on the job.

To address this gap, the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce launched the Essential Skills Workshop as part of its WorkReady initiative. Funded by Chamber Impact Investors, the program equips current and emerging managers with practical tools to strengthen communication, better understand their leadership style, and more effectively lead and retain their teams.

The 2026 cohort included 60 managers from across the regional business community, expanding from 40 participants in previous years due to strong demand. Representing a wide range of industries, from construction aggregate to healthcare, these participants collectively oversee 715 employees, amplifying the program’s impact across dozens of workplaces in our region.

The workshop curriculum was developed by Andrew Robinson, co-founder of Oxygen, with guidance and input from a steering committee of industry leaders and workforce development professionals. Their collective insight ensures the content remains relevant, practical, and aligned with the evolving needs of local employers.

Day One
On the first day of the workshop, participants focused on building self-awareness as a foundation for effective leadership. Through interactive scenarios, attendees examined how they approach communication and decision-making in the workplace, and how those behaviors impact their teams. The session emphasized that understanding one’s own tendencies is the first step toward leading others with clarity and intention, while also providing practical tools participants could begin applying immediately.

“One of the biggest takeaways for me was how quickly I could apply what I learned. The program helped me better understand myself and the people around me, which is making a difference in how I communicate and show up as a leader. I feel more aware and more confident.” 

– Cathryn Jenkins, Summit Bank

Day Two
The second day of the workshop centered on understanding how different communication and leadership styles shape workplace interactions. Participants explored how their natural tendencies influence how they respond in moments of conflict, and how those reactions may be interpreted by others. Through this work, attendees gained a clearer understanding of how diverse styles, whether relationship-focused, strategic, or process-driven, contribute to team performance. The session emphasized that when these differences are recognized and leveraged, they reduce miscommunication, strengthen collaboration, and lead to better overall outcomes.

“Participating in the five voices training has had a meaningful impact on how I lead and communicate within a healthcare setting. In an environment where clear communication directly affects patient safety, team efficiency, and overall experience, this framework has provided practical tools to strengthen both individual and team performance.“

– Christie Sears, Tribal One/Ko-Kwel Wellness Center

Day Three
Building on the self-awareness and communication skills developed earlier in the workshop, the final day focused on how managers can effectively develop their employees. Participants were introduced to a practical, repeatable model for coaching and supporting team members at different stages of growth. Through scenario-based learning, they practiced applying this model in real workplace situations, reinforcing how intentional employee development builds trust, strengthens teams, and improves retention.

“Conflicts of personality and ideas are inevitable at work. The Essential Skills Workshop helped me understand not only strategies to reduce conflict, but how exploring those differences builds trust, deepens collaboration, and creates better outcomes for our program and clients.”

– Zoe Livelybrooks, Catholic Community Services of Lane County

Reflection
The 2026 Essential Skills Workshop reflects the Chamber’s commitment to strengthening the region’s workforce by investing in the people who lead it. By equipping managers with practical communication and leadership tools, the program supports stronger workplace cultures, improved employee retention, and more resilient businesses.

The Essential Skills Workshop would not be possible without the support of Chamber members and community partners. Thank you to our sponsors: Chick-fil-A Restaurants, Mereté Hotel Management, Oxygen, Pearl Catering, and Sheild Catering.

Impact Investors
Since its launch in 2023, the Essential Skills Workshop has been offered at no cost to participants, made possible through the support of Chamber Impact Investors and additional grant funding partners. This investment covers the full cost of the program, valued at approximately $500 per participant, ensuring businesses of all sizes can access high-quality leadership training.