Workshops

Attend three days of information-packed Workshops taught by experienced, enthusiastic, dedicated Indian Country experts! Scroll for detailed Workshop descriptions below. You can also check out the Workshop details on the Agenda page HERE, where you can learn more about our instructors!   

OPENING SESSION

Panel Discussion

Your Role in Shaping the Workplace of the Future

Featuring: Patina Park and Joe Hobot

Kick off the conference with a high-energy conversation that sets the tone for everything ahead. Tribal administrative roles are transforming – moving beyond traditional tasks into executive support, community engagement and the smart use of technology. In this dynamic opening session, a panel of seasoned Tribal leaders will share bold insights and practical strategies to help you thrive in this new era.

WORKSHOPS

Agility in Action

Instructor: Joe Hobot, Ed.D., M.A.
 
ADAPTABILITY  CAREER
   
COMMUNICATION  NETWORKING

Learn how to move with confidence and purpose in today’s fast-changing work environment. Explore practical strategies for managing change, resolving conflicts, and staying adaptable under pressure. Leave equipped to respond effectively and thrive – no matter what comes your way.

  • Tackle workplace conflicts with constructive solutions
  • Turn change into opportunity while keeping your goals and focus aligned
  • Adapt smoothly to organizational changes

AI and the Admin Advantage

Instructor: Brian Pearson, MBA
 
PRODUCTIVITY  COLLABORATION
 
COMMUNICATION  TECHNOLOGY

Meet AI, your newest team member. Step into the future of work by learning how to simplify daily tasks and boost productivity. Explore practical applications using today’s most effective AI tools for scheduling, document management, and data organization – so you can work smarter, not harder.

  • Automate routine tasks with AI by using tools such as Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT to handle repetitive tasks quickly and accurately
  • Streamline scheduling and calendar management with AI assistants to manage and optimize your time
  • Simplify document creation and organization using AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot, Google AI, and others to draft, edit and structure content with ease

Beyond the Title:
Leading with Purpose

Instructor: Joe Hobot, Ed.D., M.A.
 
CAREER  COMMUNICATION  COLLABORATION
 
LEADERSHIP  SUPERVISION

Step confidently into your role – even without a formal title. Discover practical tools to communicate with clarity, delegate effectively, and overcome everyday workplace challenges. Walk away ready to strengthen your team, make an impact today, and position yourself for future leadership opportunities. 

  • Implement proven strategies to delegate and manage responsibilities
  • Recognize personal strengths and areas for growth to maximize your professional impact
  • Learn techniques to express ideas clearly, listen actively, and build trust across your team

Details Matter: Your Guide to Operational Excellence

Instructor: David Montoya III, J.D., M.A., SHRM-CP
 
CAREER  COMPLIANCE  FINANCE  GOVERNANCE
PRODUCTIVITY  SECURITY  TRIBAL ADMINISTRATION

You’re the backbone of efficient operations. Learn proven strategies for managing procurement, coordinating travel, and handling critical administrative tasks with confidence. Stay ahead of the curve with the latest federal updates and practical tips to adapt quickly and keep everything running seamlessly.

  • Streamline day-to-day tasks by organizing procurement, travel and office processes more efficiently
  • Apply practical methods to stay accurate, timely, and well-coordinated across multiple responsibilities
  • Stay prepared for shifts in federal requirements and funding so you can adjust quickly and keep operations on track

Empowered
for Tomorrow:
People + Technology

Instructor: Brian Pearson, MBA
ADAPTABILITY  COMMUNICATION
PRODUCTIVITY  TECHNOLOGY

Enhance your administrative game with hands-on Microsoft skills that make work easier and more efficient. Master the latest in technology to simplify tasks and keep your workflow organized. Walk away ready to use technology to get more done and strengthen your office’s impact.

  • Navigate the updated Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and entire Office suite with ease
  • Implement the most useful tech tools to increase your office productivity
  • Strengthen collaboration and communication using digital tools

Finding Your Balance

Instructor: Lisa Harjo, MEd 

ADAPTABILITY 
CULTURE  WELLNESS

Realign your mind, body, and spirit. We’ll explore wellness practices rooted in everyday routines, combined with culturally specific approaches, to help you stay grounded and resilient when work and life get hectic. You’ll leave this workshop feeling more centered and ready to support your organization, family, and community.

  • Get to know practical wellness habits that help you stay balanced
  • Explore cultural practices that strengthen your sense of connection and purpose
  • Walk away with a simple grounding plan you can use when things get stressful

HR Essentials for Stronger, Smarter Workplaces

Instructor: David Montoya III, J.D., M.A., SHRM-CP
CAREER  COMPLIANCE  GOVERNANCE
LAW  HUMAN RESOURCES

This workshop is designed for non-HR professionals who play a critical role in shaping workplace culture and supporting team success. Whether you manage projects, lead a small team, or simply want to strengthen your administrative impact, understanding core HR principles can help you create a more productive, compliant, and positive work environment. Learn practical strategies you can apply immediately to reinforce policies, boost morale, and handle everyday challenges with confidence.

  • Design simple tracking systems that keep HR-related tasks organized and transparent across your team
  • Develop proficiency in interpreting workplace policies so you can answer questions accurately and support compliance
  • Practice techniques for documenting sensitive information to maintain confidentiality and protect organizational integrity

Mastering the Personality Playbook

Instructor: Marissa Gehley, MEd
ADAPTABILITY  COLLABORATION  COMMUNICATION
CULTURE  HUMAN RESOURCES  NETWORKING

Unlock the secrets of working smoothly with every personality type in your office. Spot useful tips to read cues, adjust your approach, and turn challenging interactions into opportunities for collaboration. Get ready to score big with stronger relationships and a more harmonious workplace.

  • Recognize and respond to different personality types for better teamwork
  • Read social and professional cues to navigate interactions effectively
  • Elevate collaboration by adapting your approach and working strategically with others

Navigating the
Hidden Weight
of Administrative Work

Instructor: Lisa Harjo, MEd
WELLNESS  CAREER
SKILL-BUILDING  PRODUCTIVITY

Identify how constant interruptions, unspoken expectations and multiple priorities can quietly build up-even when no one else notices. Practical time in motion strategies can help to set healthy boundaries. Equip yourself with the tools to lighten the load and increase your effectiveness.

  • Spot the everyday patterns that quietly drain your energy and focus.
  • Learn practical strategies to stay on track and protect your time.
  • Use go-to tools that help you work with more ease and confidence.

Ready, Set, Budget!

Instructor: Patina Park, J.D.
COMPLIANCE  FINANCE  GOVERNANCE
SECURITY  TRIBAL ADMINISTRATION

Take control of workplace finances with practical, easy-to-follow budgeting techniques. This introduction to basic budgeting concepts is tailored for the administrative professional. You’ll be ready to plan, track, and manage your office budget proficiently.

  • Understand how to allocate resources wisely and avoid common financial pitfalls
  • Use methods to monitor expenses and keep projects on track
  • Apply straightforward techniques to support clear, informed financial decisions in your office

Solve it! Practical Problem-Solving

Instructor: Marissa Gehley, MEd
COMMUNICATION  COLLABORATION
GROWTH  HUMAN RESOURCES
SKILL-BUILDING  SUPERVISION

Turn challenges into opportunities. Learn step-by-step approaches to identify workplace problems and assess situations effectively. Gain practical tools to create mutually beneficial solutions, so you’re equipped to tackle problems with clarity.

  • Break down complex situations to understand root causes clearly
  • Explore creative ways to generate solutions that work for everyone involved
  • Strengthen your decision-making skills while maintaining your composure under pressure

Turning Plans into Action: Project Management Essentials

Instructor: Melanie Burkhart, MS, CPC
COLLABORATION  GROWTH  PRODUCTIVITY
SKILL-BUILDING  TECHNOLOGY

Step into project management with confidence and impact. In this hands-on workshop, learn the basics of planning, tracking, and executing projects. Explore tools and project management software to streamline your work and report progress clearly.

  • Plan and organize tasks effectively to ensure projects move smoothly from start to finish
  • Leverage technology to monitor progress and coordinate with team members across different areas
  • Anticipate challenges and share updates clearly to keep projects on course and stakeholders informed

    Writing for Purpose
    and Power

    Instructor: Patina Park, J.D.
    CAREER  COMMUNICATION
    LAW  SKILL-BUILDING

    Clear, professional correspondence is a critical skill in the Tribal office. This workshop provides practical tips to create documents that are accurate, culturally respectful, and legally sound. So, whether you’re communicating with Tribal members, colleagues, or external partners, you’ll learn to write with clarity and impact.

    • Craft messages that reflect professionalism while honoring community expectations and cultural context
    • Apply structure and formatting techniques to produce polished, easy-to-follow documents
    • Communicate with confidence by choosing precise, impactful wording

    Your Role.
    Your Power.
    Your Future.

    Instructor: Melanie Burkhart, MS, CPC
    CAREER  GROWTH
    LEADERSHIP  SKILL-BUILDING

    Take charge of your career and discover how to set goals that create real results and boost your influence at work. We’ll guide you through strategies to strengthen your skills and confidence. You’ll leave with a professional plan to shape future you.

    • Define the direction you want your career to move in and outline practical steps to support it
    • Explore approaches that help you strengthen your abilities and feel more confident in your work
    • Put together a clear, forward-looking plan that reflects the professional path you want to take

    Panel Discussion

    The Sovereignty Shield: Best Practices
    for Keeping Tribal Records Secure

    Featuring: David Montoya III, J.D., M.A., SHRM-CP, Falmouth Institute’s Senior Law & Governance Analyst and Brian Pearson, MBA, Technology Expert

    In today’s digital-first environment, Tribal administrative professionals play a pivotal role in safeguarding sensitive information and records. This interactive panel brings together legal and technology expertise to help you navigate the complex intersection of policy, sovereignty, and modern tools. Learn how to protect confidential Tribal data, maintain compliance, and implement practical tech solutions that strengthen security without slowing down your workflow. Through real-world examples and Q&A, you’ll leave with actionable strategies to confidently manage records, secure digital systems, and uphold Tribal integrity in every task.