Muckleshoot Tribe Develops Training Program

Reaching an executive-level position in any organization can be a tough task, but with the right training it should be within reach of anyone with the talent and interest.

Muckleshoot Tribe has developed a training program that is being used by tribes across the nation under which junior and mid-level employees get the opportunity to connect and learn from more advanced personnel and executives to facilitate their career growth. The programs provide a structured career development approach that offers tribal members the tools, experience and resources they need for job training and advancement.

At our own on-site program at Muckleshoot Casino, many participants have transitioned to positions within the Muckleshoot tribal government as well as other businesses. One graduate of the program is now the executive director of the Tribal Gaming Agency while another is the assistant director of the Muckleshoot Tribal Government.

For the past three years, we have shared our successful talent development techniques with other tribes across the nation through the Muckleshoot Round Table Conference and Expo, an event that has served hundreds since its inception. On September 1819, we will hold our fourth annual event at Emerald Downs in Auburn, Washington.

Over 70 attendees are attending this years two-day conference, up from 30 last year. More than 20 tribes will be represented from across the United States. Previous conferences have been attended by representatives from the Barona Band of Mission Indians, Pechanga Band of Luseno Indians in California, the Pascua Yaqui Tribe in Arizona, and the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana. Were honored to note that the Coushatta Tribe has attended the Round Table since its inception.

The Round Table event has allowed us to connect and network with many of the indigenous nations across the country. Because of this, we have been able to support the launching of a number of Tribal Development programs across the country.

In addition to the exchange of information about our training program, the roundtable features panel discussions, guest presentations by elected officials and breakout sessions where participants can share their own stories.

Another activity well host on the first night of the 2018 conference is a networking dinner, which will include a tour of the Muckleshoot Training and Talent Development offices at the Muckleshoot Casino.

Now that were in our fourth successful year of hosting the conference, were looking into having other tribes begin hosting it in subsequent years. We have also begun visiting other tribal development facilities in person. In March, some of our Tribal Development representatives visited the Coushatta Tribe in Elton, Louisiana for three days.

As we move forward, we plan to continue visiting other tribes to see their progress. The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe is proud to be forerunners in Tribal Development. Its very affirming that were leading the efforts to self-governance and self-determination for our people.