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Event Details

    Building a Stronger Worker’s Comp Return to Work Process and Culture

    Date: April 14, 2026, 11:45pm
    Organizer:
    SHRM Blue Mountain
    Location:
    Columbia REA - Conference Room
    2929 Melrose, Walla Walla, WA
    Price:
    No-fee
    Event Type:
    Conference
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    Early Return to Work Consultation 

    Presented by Washington State Department of Labor & Industries

    REGISTRATION LINK HERE

    Learn from the industry pros - the employer-advocate experts from L&I whose purpose is to help employers help employees return to work after a workplace injury - to create a smoother, stronger return to work process. The L&I Early Return to Work Consultation team will dive into practical tools to reduce claim costs, avoid delays, boost your return-to-work game and build a positive safety culture!

    You’ll learn how to prepare before injuries happen, communicate clearly throughout the claim process, and create effective light duty roles and job offers.  This event is all about sharing tips, tricks, and building a positive workplace culture that supports your team every step of the way. Don't miss this chance to connect, learn, and level up your worker's comp game!

    SHRM Blue Mountain is recognized by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.  Eligible for 1 SHRM PDC.
    This program has been approved for 1 HR (General) recertification credit hour toward aPHR®, aPHRi™, PHR®, PHRca®, SPHR®, GPHR®, PHRi™, and SPHRi™ recertification through the HR Certification Institute.

    Summary:

    Labor & Industries’ Early Return to Work Consultation (ERTWC) team provides expertise and assistance to employers and workers, even before an on the job injury at no addition cost.  We help remove barriers that prevent injured workers from maintaining employment.

    Are you looking to:

    • Limit claim costs and unexpected delays?
    • Prepare for future claims?
    • Create a work culture that encourages workers to return to work?

     

    Learning Objectives:

    Understanding why having a Return to Work Culture helps your business.

    How to prepare before injury occurs.

    How to communicate on all parties involved in the claim.

    Create a light duty position description and a solid job offer letter.

    Benefits of an ERTWC consultation.

    SHRM Blue Mountain is recognized by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.  Eligible for 1 SHRM PDC.
    This program has been approved for 1 HR (General) recertification credit hour toward aPHR®, aPHRi™, PHR®, PHRca®, SPHR®, GPHR®, PHRi™, and SPHRi™ recertification through the HR Certification Institute.

    About Our Speakers:

    Mindy Jackson

    Mindy has worked in the field of Vocational Rehabilitation for 22 years.  She holds a Master’s degree in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling from Utah State University and worked for 12 years as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor for the state of Utah.  Mindy has spent the last 10 years working for the Department of Labor and Industries as a Vocational Services Specialist. She currently works as a supervisor for the Early Return to Work program in Kennewick.

     

    Lauri Cousineau

    Lauri has 20+ years of vocational experience in Eastern Washington.  She provides education and assistance to employers on light duty, the process and the win-win for all.  When people are valued and working, it promotes a quicker recovery and a healthy workforce.  Employers who have a return to work culture are more efficient, productive and fiscally responsible.  She provides services in Kennewick, Richland, Pasco, Prosser, Moses Lake, Walla Walla, and Clarkston areas.  Keep Washington safe & working!