Bend Emerging Talent

Tomorrow’s the day—and this is one you don’t want to miss.

Join Lisa X Walden, international speaker, author, and Co-founder of Good Company Consulting, for a powerful keynote:
The Future of Work is Human: The New Rules of Thriving Teams

The way we work is changing fast, and this session will give you practical tools to build stronger communication, deeper connection, and more high-performing teams in today’s evolving workplace. Whether you’re early in your career or growing into leadership, you’ll walk away with insights you can apply immediately.

And the experience doesn’t end there—keep the conversation going afterward at Mountain Burger in Northwest Crossing with complimentary food, drinks, networking, and prizes.

Spots are limited—grab yours before they’re gone.

Thinking about taking the next step in your leadership journey?

Join us for the Leadership Bend Information Open House on May 28 from 4:30–6:00 PM at Touchmark at Mt. Bachelor Village.

This is your chance to learn more about the program, ask questions, and connect with others interested in growing their leadership impact in Central Oregon.

Whether you’re ready to apply or just exploring, we’d love to see you there.

Learn more here - https://www.bendchamber.org/bendnext/leadership-bend

🚨 This is one you don’t want to miss. 🚨

The way we work is changing—and the best teams are evolving with it.

Join international speaker, author, and workplace strategist Lisa X Walden for a high-energy keynote:
The Future of Work is Human: The New Rules of Thriving Teams

In this insight-packed session, you’ll learn how to build a more authentic, empowering workplace—one that drives real connection, stronger collaboration, and a future-ready mindset.

Whether you’re early in your career or stepping into leadership, you’ll walk away with practical tools you can start using immediately.

✨ And it doesn’t end there…
Keep the momentum going at our afterparty at Mountain Burger in Northwest Crossing—enjoy complimentary food, drinks, prizes, and a fun, low-pressure way to connect with other emerging professionals.

Spots will fill—don’t wait - link in bio!

ET Expert Lab Keynote Speaker In this lively, insight-packed session, you’ll learn how to create a more authentic, empowering workplace.

Join us in celebrating Helen McDonald, our featured AAC Member! ✨

After earning degrees in economics and biology, Helen moved to Bend in 2023 to grow her sustainably sourced rock and mineral business. Through her work and lived experience as a business owner, she developed a strong understanding of the challenges facing the Central Oregon workforce.

Today, Helen supports community enrichment, small business development, and workforce training programs at Central Oregon Community College, continuing her commitment to building a more resilient community.

“The Emerging Talent program creates gathering places that help peers build lasting relationships… It’s fun, empowering, and creates opportunities to grow together.”

We’re grateful for Helen’s passion and impact in our community!

Looking to engage with the next wave of talent in Bend? 🌟

See what it’s all about—link in bio!

Meet Lindsay, our featured April NEXTUp Leader!

Born and raised in Springfield, Oregon, Lindsay began her career in higher education at Central Oregon Community College in 2013 and now serves as Director of Student Engagement. She oversees orientations, student programs, athletics, the student newspaper, and student government—all while bringing a deep passion for supporting students and creating meaningful impact.

“NEXTUp Leaders has been a fantastic opportunity for both networking and professional growth… The program creates space to pause, reflect, and grow—both individually and as a community.”

Lindsay shares that returning to the “student seat” has been especially meaningful—gaining tangible skills she can apply immediately while discovering new ways to support growth in others.

We’re grateful for leaders like Lindsay who are making a lasting impact in our community.

Ready to connect with the next generation of talent in Bend? 🌟

Learn more here - link in bio!

Thank you to OSU-Cascades and Kristi Runberg for an incredible ET Expert Lab!

Attendees walked away with practical tools and fresh perspective on how to lead with clarity, build resilience, and show up as steady, trusted leaders when it matters most.

We’re especially excited about our evolving partnership with OSU–Cascades and the continued opportunities it creates to bring meaningful learning experiences to our community.

A huge thank you to Willamette Valley Vineyards - Bend for hosting our Bend ET Social and creating such an incredible evening of connection! 🍷

From the stunning setting to the thoughtfully curated wines and delicious appetizers, every detail made it a truly memorable night for our community. We’re grateful for partners like you who help bring Bend’s emerging professionals together to connect and grow.

🚀 LAST CHANCE! 🚀

Feeling overwhelmed by change at work or in life? This week's Expert Lab: "Leading Change & Building Resilience" is here to help! 🌟

🔥 What you'll gain:
• Confidence to lead in uncertainty
• Tools to stay grounded amidst chaos
• Lasting resilience strategies

This session is your ticket to thriving, not just surviving.

👉 Secure your spot now before we sell out! Register today! https://www.bendchamber.org/event/bend-et-expert-lab-leading-change-and-building-resilience

We’re heading to Willamette Valley Vineyards next week for our ET Social! 🍷

Come connect with fellow professionals, enjoy delicious wine and appetizers, and enter our raffle for a magnum of WVV wine.

Spots are limited—don’t miss out!

Thank you to OSU-Cascades for hosting our February ET Expert Lab and to Su Embree for an insightful session guiding attendees on how to think strategically with clarity and purpose in an ever-changing environment.

We appreciate the partnership and the opportunity to bring emerging professionals together to learn, connect, and grow as leaders in Central Oregon.