Rocky Mountain People & Strategy Newsletter: May 2026 Print

President's Report

Spring in the Rockies is the season that rewards people who hung in there through winter although we didn’t have much of one this year!  Many times, hanging in there is a great description for those in People leadership roles. You’re navigating AI disruption, workforce planning that won’t sit still, evolving conversations around workforce inclusion & diversity, and much, much more. You and all of our members are not just hanging in there…you are shaping what comes next. That’s the work Rocky Mountain People & Strategy is here to support.

We’ve had a full calendar of programs since January, ranging from Workforce Trends with AON, Optimizing a Hybrid Workplace - a topic many of us struggle with daily - and Applying AI for Organizational Impact.. Our Professional Development Group wraps its season on June 1 with an in-person session, capping a season of programming that was member led, surfacing the topics worth wrestling with. Those of you who participated not only created new relationships that will outlast these sessions, you learned and grew together. Thanks to our PDG sponsor, Marsh McLennan who helped make this cohort possible. 

And the work continues. As we build the calendar for the next programming year, we welcome your thoughts and ideas. Our goal is to deliver programs that meet your needs and help equip you for the challenges that will be part of your work lives in the coming months and years.

A quick word about the Pillar Awards. Every year, we’re struck by the quality and creativity of the work being done quietly by so many People leaders in our community. Come celebrate these individuals and their organizations by attending the Pillar Awards Luncheon on June 18th. Register here.

Finally, the Board. Serving on a volunteer board is a particular kind of work. It takes time, often  competes with day jobs, and the wins are usually invisible. But it is also highly rewarding and meaningful. This Board has led throughout this year with rigor and good humor, and the chapter is stronger because of it. Thank you, genuinely to all of our current Board members. If you’re interested in joining the Board in the fall, please reach out to Robin or Pattie. We’d love to hear from you and don’t forget to vote for our new officers. 

See you at the Pillar Awards and Happy Spring!

Pattie & Robin

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Program Highlights

MAY HIGHLIGHTS

professional development groups

Our 2026 Professional Development Group is nearing the conclusion of another engaging year of learning, collaboration, and connection. This members-only program provides HR professionals with a unique opportunity to network with peers, exchange ideas and best practices, and build meaningful relationships with others across the broader human resources community.

This year’s cohort included more than 30 RMPS members who explored a wide range of timely HR topics and emerging trends affecting the workplace. The 2026 program participants chose to focus deeply on AI and its growing influence on the HR profession, offering practical insights into how AI can support and enhance human resources practices.

The group will wrap up its programming in June with a final in-person meeting, where participants will reflect on their key takeaways, celebrate the connections they have built, and discuss how they plan to apply what they have learned in their organizations.

A big thank you to our sponsor, Marsh McLennan Agency, for supporting this member-only experience and helping make it possible.

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Upcoming Events

PILLAR AWARDS: JUNE 18

JOIN US: June 18

The 2026 RMPS Pillar Award recipients have been announced, recognizing organizations and professionals whose innovative HR programs and practices are driving meaningful impact.

This year’s honorees are:

  • HR Strategy and Planning: Lockton and Denver Broncos
  • Organizational Effectiveness: Culture Talk and DataBank
  • Talent Management: Veeam Software
  • Rising Star: Stantec

On June 18, the winners of the 2026 RMPS Pillar Awards will be celebrated. Join us to honor these remarkable professionals whose contributions have strengthened the foundation of their organizations and elevated the HR profession.

Each winner will share their innovative programs, impactful results, and the strategies behind their success. Come get inspiration from your peers. The session will include time for you to ask questions and engage in the discussion.

Lunch is provided at this event.

Wednesday, June 18, 2026 | 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM | Joy Burns Center, University of Denver

 
Click to Register

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RMPS Now Offers HRCI Recertification Credits

Many RMPS educational programs have long been eligible for recertification credit through self-reporting. As an approved provider of HR Certification Institute (HRCI) credits, RMPS can now offer pre-approved recertification credits for eligible events, making it easier for certified HR professionals to earn and document the credits needed to maintain their credentials.

This designation recognizes the quality and relevance of RMPS programming and increases visibility for our events through HRCI's professional development network.

Whether you are already certified or considering certification in the future, RMPS events offer an even greater opportunity to invest in your professional growth while connecting with Colorado's HR community.

Our fall programming will be the first eligible events to offer HRCI recertification credits.

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Membership

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

Benefits of joining include

  • Connect with senior level People Practitioners
  • Learn & grow through our ongoing programs
  • No cost for RMPS events
  • Participate in PDG (Professional Development Group)
  • New member orientation
  • Complimentary affiliate webinars
  • Leadership roles within RMPS
Click to Join

membership dues auto-renewal is here!

Good news! Starting in February 2026, we are offering auto-renewal for all practitioner and consultant categories.

Benefits:

  • Keep your membership current, seamlessly
  • Opt-in or opt-out whenever you wish

Here's how it works:

If you opt in to auto-renewal, you will receive a Renewal Reminder 7 days prior to your annual membership expiration date. Three days before expiration, your credit card will be processed and you will receive an email receipt. You may cancel auto-renewal at any time.

FAQs:

1. When can I sign up for auto-renewal?

Members will see the option to opt into auto-renewal when they go through:

  • The membership join process
  • The renewal process
  • Their Member Area
2. Do I have to sign up for auto-renewal?

No, this is optional and you can change your preferences at any time.

3. What if I cancel auto-renewal?
  • The scheduled charge is removed
  • You receive a confirmation email
  • Your membership remains active until expiration
4. What if I cancel within the 3-day window?

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Sponsors

RMPS thanks our sponsors for supporting us throughout the year!

We are indebted to them for their generous financial and in-kind donations.

Platinum: Aon

Academic: Daniels College of Business, University of Denver

PDG Event Sponsorship: Marsh McLennan Agency

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