About the Instructors:
Steven Byers, M.A., M.S. - Steve designs and hosts learning conversations for teams, organizations, and communities seeking significant change through a shift in thinking. His clients include government agencies, corporations, schools, Veterans, grassroots groups, and anyone wanting to create and nurture community. In his work he emphasizes the power of good questions to generate meaningful conversations. Steve began learning about systems thinking as a graduate student in ecology and then through the organizational work of W. Edwards Deming, Russell Ackoff, and Peter Senge. He received his Masters Degree from the Organization Systems Renewal program at Seattle University in 2007. Steve will co-teach a course called Global Contexts for 21st Century Leadership; this summer at St. Mary's College in northern California. He also has a Masters Degree in Marine Biology.

Colleen Ponto, Ed.D. - Colleen Ponto teaches at Seattle University where she is a core faculty member of the Organization Systems Renewal Graduate Program which specializes in helping adult learners to become designers and leaders of systemic organizational change. Colleen also leads a nonprofit organization in her community focusing on creating a sustainable future through park preservation, community collaboration, and innovative educational experiences. Before becoming a professor and consultant, Colleen worked as a pulp and paper engineer for the Weyerhaeuser Paper Company. She received her doctorate in Educational Leadership from Seattle University, her master’s degree in Whole Systems Design from Antioch University Seattle, and her bachelor’s degree in Paper Science and Engineering from the University of Washington.

In this workshop participants will learn through hands-on activities such as:
Small group discussion & large group dialogue
Individual reflection
System thinking games
Viewing personal stories through a new lens
Collaborative exploration of complex problems

After attending this class students will be able to:
Develop deeper understanding of complex issues
Acquire a more holistic view of the world
Nurture your systems thinking talent
Make systems visible through causal loops

This class is intended for: Adults (which includes high school students) who would like to get off of what we call the "problem solving treadmill" and instead increase their natural ability to think systemically: environmental professionals, managers of organizations, government staff, educators, and students.

Prerequisites: None

Education Level: Introductory/Review

Course Materials: Participants will receive course proceedings, and reference materials.

Continuing Education Units: 0.7

What to Bring: Pen or pencil, coffee mug, and a water bottle (to reduce waste). Please wear comfortable clothes appropriate for the prevailing weather. Lunch will be on your own. There are numerous restaurants within walking distance. Drinks and snacks will be provided each day.

Registration: $195 ($155 reduced tuition*)
*Reduced tuition is available for Native American tribes; government employees; nonprofits; students; and NAEP, NEBC, NWAEP members. You may register via the link below or by calling the Northwest Environmental Training Center at 206-762-1976.

Cancellation Policy: Registration fees are fully refundable up to 30 days prior to the event and 50 percent refundable (or 100% credit) thereafter up to 3 business days prior to the event. No refunds are issued for cancellations occurring less than 3 business days before the start day. Course registration fees and cancellation policy are subject to change without notice.

Disability Accommodations: To request disability accommodations, please contact us at info@nwetc.org or (206) 762-1976 at least 30 days prior to the event.