Staff out and about – Spring 2026

Staff continues to reach out and connect with Virginia’s local public entities, including cities, counties, towns, school divisions, and authorities – from the smallest to largest. This includes engagements such as conferences, trainings, and more. Read all about their activities below!

Crater Criminal Justice Training Academy

Public Safety Specialist Gary Dillon presented on Emergency Vehicle Operations and Liability (EVOLve) to their basic law enforcement academy class. Emergency vehicle operations remain one of the highest-risk activities in policing. Sound decision-making, policy awareness, and understanding civil liability are critical to reducing preventable injuries, fatalities, and agency exposure. Dillon was encouraged to see future officers engaged in conversations about balancing urgency with safety, accountability, and public trust.

City of Winchester

Safety Consultant Christine Gillison conducted competent person training on trenching for staff in the City of Winchester.

Virginia Local Government Management Association (VLGMA)

VRSA staff attended the Virginia Local Government Management Association (VLGMA) Winter Conference in the City of Staunton! Pictured below: VRSA Senior Account Executive Lisa Schenk with Town of Vinton Assistant Town Manager Cody Sexton; Cody Sexton moderating a panel discussion, “Get the Right Project with the Right Impact,” featuring Town of Bowling Green Manager India Adams-Jacobs, Dr. Sheryl Bailey with Virginia Tech, and Warsaw Town Manager Joseph Quesenberry; Local Government Specialist Peter Stephenson addressing the conference; and VRSA Senior Account Executive Nora Pierre with Town Manager John Edwards from the Town of West Point!

 

 

Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA)

Senior Account Executive Nora Pierre attended the VSBA Eastern Region Spring Networking Forum, where VRSA was a sponsor, and met with staff of host King William County Schools – including Superintendent Dr. Charles Wagner.

New Kent County

VRSA Director of Education and Training Thomas Bullock provided training on artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace to staff in New Kent County. The presentation discussed common workplace applications for AI, as well as considerations to keep in mind if using the technology.

Water and Wastewater Roundtable

VRSA facilitated an annual Water and Wastewater Roundtable discussion in Northern Virginia, hosted by Loudoun Water. For nearly a decade, this annual meeting has gathered professionals to exchange ideas, address challenges, and share best practices to prevent and reduce losses and protect their citizens and employees. VRSA members from the Town of Vienna, the Town of Herndon, AlexRenew, the City of Suffolk, the Town of Front Royal, the City of Fredericksburg, and Fauquier Water and Sewer Authority (FCWSA) also attended the roundtable discussion.

Town of Rocky Mount

Public Safety Specialist Gary Dillon and Senior Account Executive Lisa Schenk provided training to staff in the Town of Rocky Mount. Schenk discussed cybersecurity, while Dillon provided training on civilian de-escalation.

Virginia Municipal League Local Government Day

Local Government Specialist Peter Stephenson and Senior Account Executive Nora Pierre attended the Virginia Municipal League Local Government Day at the General Assembly. The gathering provides attendees with the opportunity to learn about legislation that may affect local governments. Pictured below is Stephenson with Town of South Hill Manager Keli Reeks and Clerk Leanne Feather.

Louisa County Service Authority

Senior Safety Consultant Fonda Craig conducted confined space training to staff of the Louisa County Service Authority.

Winchester OSHA-30 Construction

Senior Safety Consultant Fonda Craig and Safety Consultant Christine Gillison conducted an OSHA-30 Construction training in the City of Winchester. The four-day course focuses on recognizing and fixing hazards in the workplace. It provides a comprehensive and advanced level of safety education for those involved in the construction industry.