Managing AI Adoption: From Policy to Practice

HR Think Tank

Where big ideas meet meaningful HR conversation.

HR Think Tank is a space for curious, thoughtful HR professionals to come together for meaningful, forward-looking conversations. These sessions go beyond day-to-day HR challenges, creating room to explore big ideas, emerging issues, and the broader forces shaping the workplace. Through open dialogue and shared perspective, participants deepen their understanding and expand their thinking alongside peers.

How It Works

• Open to All HR Professionals: Members and non-members are welcome.
• Free for Members: PHRMA members attend at no cost; non-member pricing may apply.
• Conversation-Focused: No presentations or formal instruction—just guided discussion and peer exchange.
• Exploratory Topics: Conversations may include generational wealth, financial literacy, economic realities affecting employees, and other timely workplace issues.
• Community-Driven: Participants bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and questions to enrich the conversation.
  

Event Information: 

AI adoption varies widely across organizations and individuals. Early adopters are integrating AI into core systems and processes, while others remain hesitant to engage with it at all. With AI dominating the headlines, how should HR and business professionals cut through the noise to determine the best path forward?

Join us for a discussion on AI adoption strategies and best practices. We’ll share what’s worked, address common questions and concerns, and brainstorm new approaches together. 

Event Details

• Date: July 30th, 2026
• Time: 4:30pm - 6:00pm
• Location: TBA
  
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: Complimentary
  • Non-Members: $65
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Thank You to Our HR Think Tank Leader! 

Ophelia Yan, MBA, GPHR, SHRM-SCP Instructor Oregon State University PHRMA Board Member	Alan Cabelly, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus Portland State University PHRMA Board Member	Katrina Williams, SPHR Chief People Officer DKS Associates PHRMA Board Member

Influential Leadership: What’s Above + Below the Line?

HR in 90: Leadership Development - Cultivating Growth & Leadership

Practical leadership support—delivered in 90 minutes.

This HR in 90 session offers a focused, practical look at leadership development through the HR lens. In just 90 minutes, explore common leadership challenges, essential leadership behaviors, and simple tools HR can use to coach, guide, and support leaders day to day. Designed for busy HR professionals, this session blends learning, discussion, and immediately usable takeaways—plus lunch.

Session Overview: 

This is an interactive, discussion-driven session (built around reflective questions, not lecture) designed to give HR professionals and leaders a shared, practical vocabulary for trust, accountability, and self-awareness — one they can apply immediately in team and stakeholder conversations.

This session explores what truly makes someone a leader, arguing that leadership isn't about a position or a title, but relationships built on trust. That trust positions one to influence others, regardless of organizational authority. It moves from a foundational reframe of leadership, into the specific behaviors that build or erode trust, and taking ownership and responding constructively under pressure.

Learning Objectives: 

• Gain leadership self-awareness
• Understand leadership behaviors that contribute to healthy workplace cultures (and awareness of behaviors to avoid)
• Explore how to lead teams by building trust

About the Speaker: 

Christian Douglas Writer, Speaker & Facilitator For over 25 years, Christian Douglas has worked as a consultant, coach, and trainer, teaching people skills to include Influential Leadership, The Art of Productive Conflict, and Building Effective Teams to organizations including IBM, Chevron, Boeing, and the U.S. Federal Government. He has helped individuals, teams, and organizations dismantle counterproductive patterns and achieve greater professional and personal fulfillment. Christian has lived and worked in Australia, Europe, and Asia. He is a private pilot, woodworker, and photographer, and enjoys rock climbing, mountain biking, and kayaking.

Thank You to Our Hosts!

About HR in 90

HR in 90 is PHRMA’s monthly lunchtime program designed to fit learning and connection into a busy workday. Step away from your desk, enjoy lunch, and engage in timely HR topics alongside peers who understand your challenges. Each session blends practical learning with meaningful conversation—giving you insights, perspective, and community in just 90 minutes.

Who It’s For

HR in 90 is ideal for you if you:

• Want meaningful HR learning that fits into your workday
• Prefer approachable, discussion-friendly sessions over full-day programs
• Are looking to connect with other HR professionals without committing an entire afternoon or evening
• Want a consistent, predictable monthly touchpoint with the PHRMA community

All career stages are welcome—HR in 90 is designed to be accessible, relevant, and engaging for emerging through executive-level professionals.

Event Details:

• Date: August 12th, 2026
• Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm
• Location:
  • The Standard - Auditorium
    900 SW 5th Ave, Level B1 (2 levels down from the lobby)
    Portland, OR 97204
  • Parking: Parking garage with Concourse Access Under the Street is at: 930 SW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97204
  • Cost: $5/hour
    
  NOTE: Do not put "The Standard" into your maps - you will not arrive at the correct location!
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: $54
  • Non-Members: $124
• Agenda:
  • 11:30am - 12:00pm: Arrival, Lunch & Connection
  • 12:00pm - 1:00: Presentation
    
• Recertification Credits:
  • SHRM PDCs: 1
  • HRCI Credits: 1 (pending until approved)
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Thank You to Our Programs Board Members! 

Linda Addy Training + Development Consultant HR Annie PHRMAVolunteer	Natalie Grebe HR Manager Elephants Delicatessen PHRMA Board Member	Nicole Feightner, SHRM-SCP, PHR HR Business Partner PacifiCorp PHRMA Board Member

Rebuilding Lives is How We Rebuild Community: An Invitation to Action

HR in 90: Workforce Development - Building Skills for Today & Tomorrow

Practical leadership support—delivered in 90 minutes.

This HR in 90 session offers a focused look at workforce development in action—what’s working, what’s changing, and how HR teams can support growth without overcomplicating the process. In just 90 minutes, participants will explore real-world examples, practical tools, and peer insights related to developing talent, building internal mobility, and preparing employees for what’s ahead—all while connecting with others facing similar challenges.

Session Overview:

We all see the challenges facing Portland, particularly in our downtown core. As business leaders and HR professionals, we have the unique power to drive solutions. A reliable job is the single most effective tool for preventing recidivism and securing permanent housing.

In response, PHRMA invites you to an upcoming HR in 90 panel presentation on Fair Chance Hiring; on providing stable employment and supportive environments for individuals transitioning out of homelessness and those reentering the workforce from incarceration.

This can be a difficult landscape to navigate. Employers face real and practical questions around insurance compliance, background check complexities, and the underlying biases that teams or clients may hold toward individuals from transitional backgrounds.

Hear directly from the front lines: meet the organizations supporting individuals seeking a fair chance, and the local companies that have successfully built their own programs. Discover what actually works, the questions that matter, the positive impact on community revitalization, and how Fair Chance hiring has strengthened their own talent strategy.

Learning Objectives: 

• Demystifying Risk & Navigating Bias: How Fair Chance programs stabilize workforces and how to overcome internal and external biases.
• Building Your Program Blueprint: Access community organizations, tax incentives, and compliant screening strategies.
• Thoughtful Communication: Securing stakeholder buy-in and integrating hires seamlessly into your culture without making them a "poster child."
• On-the-Job Success: Implementing robust onboarding and performance management frameworks.
  

Let's be the ones who help change Portland!

About the Speakers: 

	Nancy Pance Executive Director & Co-Founder Opportunity Oregon Nancy Pance is the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Opportunity Oregon, a statewide nonprofit dedicated to expanding employment opportunities for individuals returning from incarceration. A business owner, workforce development leader, and advocate for fair chance hiring, Nancy draws from her own lived experience to build meaningful partnerships between employers, labor unions, workforce agencies, and the Oregon Department of Corrections. Nancy specializes in identifying talent within Oregon's correctional facilities and serving as the bridge between that talent and employers across countless industries. Through innovative in-prison career fairs, workforce development initiatives, and employer engagement, she helps businesses address workforce shortages while creating pathways to successful reentry. As a recognized speaker on workforce development, second chance employment, and criminal justice reform, Nancy is passionate about changing perceptions of justice-impacted individuals and demonstrating that fair chance hiring is both a smart business strategy and a powerful investment in Oregon's communities.
	Kyle Colleen Black Customer Service Specialist CREW (Connecting Resources to Empower Women) With a family history of dysfunction, alcoholism and drug use, Kyle left home at 13 entering a life of addiction and prostitution. Awakening one day tired and done, Kyle returned home finished school, gained meaningful employment in accounting and inventory control, and started her own family. In her late twenties several family members passed away and her mother committed suicide. In grief she turned to alcohol and drug use for consolation and the life she had built quickly deteriorated leading to embezzlement, chaos, violence and incarceration. While incarcerated Kyle diligently sought to understand why she abused those she loved and abandoned her responsibilities. Finding answers and gaining a renewed commitment to her family and life, Kyle wanted every woman incarcerated to know they were supported and that help was available. While incarcerated she became a licensed Addictions and Mental Health Peer Wellness Specialist and upon release has pursued additional training in Forensic support for those intersecting with the Justice System. After serving 27 years, upon release in 2022 her commitment to those incarcerated resulted in a position as a Policy and Outreach Associate at the Oregon Justice Resource Center. She represented OJRC at Oregon’s State Capital, Law and Civic engagements and Oregon Universities speaking about policy changes and modernization of the carceral system. She is well versed in speaking about the devastating impacts the cycle of incarceration has on communities, families, and individuals. As well as revealing the myths and misinformation that Oregon Leaders have about those that are incarcerated and the business of incarceration. She currently works as a Client Services Specialist for CREW – Connecting Resources to Empower Women. This non-profit provides safe-rides home, clothing, hygiene, resource information and gang/sex traffic tattoo removal to women who are releasing from Coffee Creek Correctional Facility. In September of 2025 CREW provides services to 2% of the women releasing….in May of this year that percentage rose to 90%. She also is a Board Member for the Oregon Chapter of CURE, a national organization that provides support to family and friends of those incarcerated.
	Kelly Haines Program Manager (UPACT - Union Pre-Apprenticeship Construction Training) Portland General Electric Clean Energy Workforce
	Chase Bissett Director of Employment Services Central City Concern Chase Bissett is the Director of Employment Services at Central City Concern. During his 13 years with the organization, he has served in a variety of roles, including Employment Specialist and Project Manager. He currently leads a team of nearly 40 staff delivering employment and workforce development services to individuals facing barriers to employment. Chase is passionate about developing innovative, person-centered services that support recovery, economic stability, and meaningful community participation.
	Michael Leslie Director of Social Enterprises Central City Concern Mike Ryan Leslie is the Director of Social Enterprises at Central City Concern. Since taking on that role in May of 2023, he has led operational strategy, business development, and financial management for the agency's social enterprise portfolio. With a diverse background that spans executive operations in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors, Mike specializes in building sustainable, mission-driven programs that create pathways to economic stability.

Thank You to Our Hosts!

About HR in 90

HR in 90 is PHRMA’s monthly lunchtime program designed to fit learning and connection into a busy workday. Step away from your desk, enjoy lunch, and engage in timely HR topics alongside peers who understand your challenges. Each session blends practical learning with meaningful conversation—giving you insights, perspective, and community in just 90 minutes.

Who It’s For

HR in 90 is ideal for you if you:

• Want meaningful HR learning that fits into your workday
• Prefer approachable, discussion-friendly sessions over full-day programs
• Are looking to connect with other HR professionals without committing an entire afternoon or evening
• Want a consistent, predictable monthly touchpoint with the PHRMA community

All career stages are welcome—HR in 90 is designed to be accessible, relevant, and engaging for emerging through executive-level professionals.

Event Details:

• Date: September 16th, 2026
• Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm
• Location:
  • The Standard - Auditorium
    900 SW 5th Ave, Level B1 (2 levels down from the lobby)
    Portland, OR 97204
  • Parking: Parking garage with Concourse Access Under the Street is at: 930 SW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97204
  • Cost: $5/hour
    
  NOTE: Do not put "The Standard" into your maps - you will not arrive at the correct location!
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: $54
  • Non-Members: $124
• Agenda:
  • 11:30am - 12:00pm: Arrival, Lunch & Connection
  • 12:00pm - 1:00: Presentation
    
• Recertification Credits:
  • SHRM PDCs: 1
  • HRCI Credits: 1 (pending until approved)
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Thank You to Our Programs Board Members! 

Teresa Bergan HR Manager Streimer PHRMA Board Member	Natalie Miller Regional Director West Apprenti PHRMA Board Member	Natalie Grebe HR Manager Elephants Delicatessen PHRMA Board Member	Nicole Feightner, SHRM-SCP, PHR HR Business Partner PacifiCorp PHRMA Board Member
Teresa Bergan Vice President of People & Culture True Terpenes PHRMA Volunteer	Rachel Marie Adjunct Instructor: Organizational Behavior Portland State University PHRMA Volunteer

HR Think Tank

Where big ideas meet meaningful HR conversation.

HR Think Tank is a space for curious, thoughtful HR professionals to come together for meaningful, forward-looking conversations. These sessions go beyond day-to-day HR challenges, creating room to explore big ideas, emerging issues, and the broader forces shaping the workplace. Through open dialogue and shared perspective, participants deepen their understanding and expand their thinking alongside peers.

How It Works

• Open to All HR Professionals: Members and non-members are welcome.
• Free for Members: PHRMA members attend at no cost; non-member pricing may apply.
• Conversation-Focused: No presentations or formal instruction—just guided discussion and peer exchange.
• Exploratory Topics: Conversations may include generational wealth, financial literacy, economic realities affecting employees, and other timely workplace issues.
• Community-Driven: Participants bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and questions to enrich the conversation.
  

Event Information: TBA

Learning Objectives: TBA

Event Details

• Date: September 17th, 2026
• Time: 4:30pm - 6:00pm
• Location: TBA
  
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: Complimentary
  • Non-Members: $65
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Thank You to Our HR Think Tank Leader! 

Ophelia Yan, MBA, GPHR, SHRM-SCP Instructor Oregon State University PHRMA Board Member	Alan Cabelly, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus Portland State University PHRMA Board Member	Katrina Williams, SPHR Chief People Officer DKS Associates PHRMA Board Member

HR in 90: Career Support Network - Career Transitions

Connection and support for navigating what’s next.

This HR in 90 session is a presentation-based program designed to support HR professionals navigating career transitions. Through guided content and practical examples, the session explores common challenges, decision points, and strategies related to job searching, career pivots, and professional reinvention within HR.

Participants will gain perspective, tools, and ideas they can apply immediately—along with time for reflection and light discussion. As with all HR in 90 programs, lunch is included and the experience balances learning with meaningful connection.

Session Overview: TBA

Learning Objectives: TBA

About the Speaker: TBA

Thank You to Our Hosts!

About HR in 90

HR in 90 is PHRMA’s monthly lunchtime program designed to fit learning and connection into a busy workday. Step away from your desk, enjoy lunch, and engage in timely HR topics alongside peers who understand your challenges. Each session blends practical learning with meaningful conversation—giving you insights, perspective, and community in just 90 minutes.

Who It’s For

HR in 90 is ideal for you if you:

• Want meaningful HR learning that fits into your workday
• Prefer approachable, discussion-friendly sessions over full-day programs
• Are looking to connect with other HR professionals without committing an entire afternoon or evening
• Want a consistent, predictable monthly touchpoint with the PHRMA community

All career stages are welcome—HR in 90 is designed to be accessible, relevant, and engaging for emerging through executive-level professionals.

Event Details:

• Date: October 14, 2026
• Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm
• Location:
  • The Standard - Auditorium
    900 SW 5th Ave, Level B1 (2 levels down from the lobby)
    Portland, OR 97204
  • Parking: Parking garage with Concourse Access Under the Street is at: 930 SW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97204
  • Cost: $5/hour
    
  NOTE: Do not put "The Standard" into your maps - you will not arrive at the correct location!
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: $54
  • Non-Members: $124
• Agenda:
  • 11:30am - 12:00pm: Arrival, Lunch & Connection
  • 12:00pm - 1:00: Presentation
    
• Recertification Credits:
  • SHRM PDCs: 1
  • HRCI Credits: 1 (pending until approved)
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Thank You to Our Programs Board Members! 

Lauren Francis Chief Executive Officer Mulberry Talent Partners PHRMA Volunteer	Jenny Wright Director of Executive Search & Business Development Mulberry Talent Partners PHRMA Volunteer	Natalie Grebe HR Manager Elephants Delicatessen PHRMA Board Member	Nicole Feightner, SHRM-SCP, PHR HR Business Partner PacifiCorp PHRMA Board Member

HR in 90: Workplace Legal Update - Applying Workplace Law with Confidence

Clear legal updates. Practical guidance. Confident HR decisions.

Workplace Legal Updates in HR in 90 is a concise, practical session designed to help HR professionals stay current on evolving employment laws—without the overwhelm. In just 90 minutes, this session highlights recent and upcoming legal changes, explains what they mean in day-to-day practice, and offers clear guidance on how to apply them within your organization. Led by trusted legal and HR experts, the conversation focuses on real-world implications, risk awareness, and practical steps that support compliance and confident decision-making.

Session Overview: TBA

Learning Objectives: TBA

About the Speaker: TBA

Thank You to Our Hosts!

About HR in 90

HR in 90 is PHRMA’s monthly lunchtime program designed to fit learning and connection into a busy workday. Step away from your desk, enjoy lunch, and engage in timely HR topics alongside peers who understand your challenges. Each session blends practical learning with meaningful conversation—giving you insights, perspective, and community in just 90 minutes.

Who It’s For

HR in 90 is ideal for you if you:

• Want meaningful HR learning that fits into your workday
• Prefer approachable, discussion-friendly sessions over full-day programs
• Are looking to connect with other HR professionals without committing an entire afternoon or evening
• Want a consistent, predictable monthly touchpoint with the PHRMA community

All career stages are welcome—HR in 90 is designed to be accessible, relevant, and engaging for emerging through executive-level professionals.

Event Details:

• Date: November 12th, 2026
• Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm
• Location:
  • The Standard - Auditorium
    900 SW 5th Ave, Level B1 (2 levels down from the lobby)
    Portland, OR 97204
  • Parking: Parking garage with Concourse Access Under the Street is at: 930 SW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97204
  • Cost: $5/hour
    
  NOTE: Do not put "The Standard" into your maps - you will not arrive at the correct location!
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: $54
  • Non-Members: $124
• Agenda:
  • 11:30am - 12:00pm: Arrival, Lunch & Connection
  • 12:00pm - 1:00: Presentation
    
• Recertification Credits:
  • SHRM PDCs: 1
  • HRCI Credits: 1 (pending until approved)
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Thank You to Our Programs Board Members! 

Natalie Grebe HR Manager Elephants Delicatessen PHRMA Board Member	Nicole Feightner, SHRM-SCP, PHR HR Business Partner PacifiCorp PHRMA Board Member