2026 Professional Development Institute (PDI) (May 15, 2026)

Fri, 15 May 2026 15:00:00 GMT

11th ANNUAL WCDA

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

Friday, May 15, 2026

8:30 am - 3:30 pm

IN PERSON, CWU Campus, Ellensburg, WA

Registration/Cancellation deadline May 7

Keynote Speaker: Dr. John Medina, Author of

Brain Rules & Brain Rules for Work

Keynote Presentation: The Neuroscience of Taking a Break

We invite you to join us for a keynote that speaks directly to the pace and pressure of our work:

Ask yourself:

When was the last time you took a break that actually made you more effective—not just less tired?
How often are you asking others to perform at a high level without understanding how their brains function under stress?
What would change in your work if you could help students and clients manage overwhelm more effectively?

In this engaging and research-based session, cognitive neuroscientist Dr. John Medina explores how the brain responds to stress and why deliberate, well-timed breaks are one of the most powerful tools for improving focus, decision-making, and emotional regulation.

You’ll walk away with:

Evidence-based strategies for integrating effective breaks into your daily workflow
Practical insights you can immediately apply with students, clients, and teams
A clearer understanding of how brain science can support sustainable performance

This session is especially relevant for professionals in career development, workforce training, and student support—those who regularly operate in high-demand, people-centered environments.

If your work involves helping others stay focused, motivated, and resilient, this keynote will give you tools you can use immediately.

Learn more about Dr. John Medina here.

WCDA's Professional Development Institute (PDI) - General Overview

Join the Washington Career Development Association at this in-person event featuring industry-leading professional speakers, interactive discussion, and professional networking. This PDI combines new and updated career development topics with the latest trends in Washington State and your region.

Registration includes a parking fee, refreshments and a meal card!

NCDA CE units (4 units) and K12 Clock Hours may be available. Sign up onsite with completion of evaluation.

Agenda (subject to change):

8:00-8:30 am: Business Meeting (Board Members Only)

8:30-9:00 am: Participant Check-In & Registration

9:00-9:30 am: Round Table Discussions: Hot Topics in Career Services

9:45-11:00 am: Keynote: The Neuroscience of Taking a Break

Speaker: Dr. John Medina, author of Brain Rules and Brain Rules for Work and consultant for companies such as Google

10:45-11:00 am: Q&A with Dr. Medina

11:15 am-12:00 pm: Action Strategy Conversation at Roundtables

12:00-1 pm: Lunch, Cal Crow Award, and self-reflection activity (optional)

1:10-2:00 pm: Two breakout sessions to choose from - See below

2:10-3:00 pm: Two breakout sessions to choose from - See below

3:10-3:30 pm: Wrap-Up and Group Photo

Welcome to Central Washington University, Ellensburg!

Event Location: Student Union and Recreation Building (SURC), 2nd Floor in the Ballroom

400 E. University Way, Ellensburg, WA 98926

Lodging

There will be no room blocks this year at any specific hotel. Please book wherever you see fit.

Hotel Availability in Ellensburg

The following hotels offer a government rate.

Holiday Inn Express Ellensburg by IHG (gov rate)

1620 Canyon Road, Ellensburg, WA 98926 United States (US)

+1-509-253-1844

Hotel Windrow Downtown Ellensburg (gov rate)

502 North Main Street, Ellensburg, WA, US

+1 509-962-8000

SureStay By Best Western Ellensburg (gov rate)

1500 Canyon Rd., Ellensburg, WA 98926

+1 509-962-6888

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Ellensburg (gov rate)

1709 South Opportunity Street, Ellensburg, WA

+1 509-933-5000

Washington Career Development Association upcoming events

2026 Professional Development Institute (PDI) (May 15, 2026)