Professional Development and Support
Immersive learning for educators, lasting change for students
Our professional development is hands-on and immersive. Instead of just hearing about the curriculum, teachers live it—earning Empowered currency, joining lively auctions, and engaging in activities that spark creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration.
Led by Empowered staff, Montana Chamber Foundation workforce strategists, and experienced teachers, these sessions equip educators with both inspiration and practical strategies.
Since 2022, we’ve hosted three events in Montana—Livingston, Lewistown, and Helena—each one growing the community of teachers excited to bring Empowered to their students.
Supporting educators is core to MCF’s mission—by investing in teachers, we are investing in students, communities, and the state’s long-term workforce. We’re excited to keep expanding these opportunities so every Montana classroom can benefit from fresh, innovative learning experiences.
Educators from across the state participating in a hands-on activity at the 2025 PD event in Helena
Supporting Montana Teachers, Together
The Montana Chamber Foundation is proud to have two former classroom teachers on staff, dedicated to helping educators bring Empowered, The Prospects, Cultivating Careers, and professional development events to life.
•Tiana Yates joined the team in 2021 and is based in Colstrip, MT. She leads The Prospects K–12 business pitch competition, manages MCF’s marketing efforts, and co-facilitates professional development sessions.
•James Easton came on board in 2022 and works out of Billings, MT. He spends much of his time on the road, offering hands-on classroom support to teachers across the state. James also leads Cultivating Careers events and partners with Tiana on professional development.
Both Tiana and James share a passion for supporting educators. Their work reflects MCF’s commitment to making classroom support approachable, providing practical tools, and fostering hands-on learning experiences. By equipping teachers in this way, the Montana Chamber is helping prepare students to graduate confident, capable, and ready to enter the workforce.
Educators at the 2022 Livingston Professional Development event
To be added to our newsletter to be updated about PD, support and more, please create a free Empowered HUB account.
To learn more, please reach out to one of our workforce specialist:
JAMES EASTON- [email protected]
TIANA YATES- [email protected]
