Virtual Learning Series

The WIM Education Foundation Virtual Learning Series delivers monthly webinars that provide practical, solution-focused insights for professionals in manufacturing. Held on the second Tuesday of each month, each session is offered virtually with translation in 60 languages.

Tailored to the experiences of women in manufacturing, these expert-led webinars feature engaging, actionable content designed to drive success. Recordings are available anytime in the Virtual Learning Library, exclusively for WIM members.

This program is available for FREE for WIM members with generous support from

Virtual Learning Library

WIM members can view our webinar library archive.

CLICK HERE!

You must be logged in as a WIM member on womeninmanufacturing.org to access the Library.

May 12, 2026         

 Register Now! 

Speak Up & Stand Out: Advocating for Yourself and Others at Work

Presented By: Valarie Nash

Advocating for yourself can feel uncomfortable—even risky—especially in industries where women have historically been underrepresented in leadership roles. Yet the ability to clearly communicate your value, ask for opportunities, and support others along the way is one of the most powerful skills for long-term career growth.

In this engaging and practical session, leadership consultant and HR strategist Valarie Nash will explore how women at every level of manufacturing—from the production floor to the C-suite—can strengthen their voice and advocate with confidence. Participants will learn how to articulate their contributions, navigate challenging workplace conversations, and strategically advocate for opportunities, recognition, and advancement. The session will also explore how women can use their influence to support and elevate others, helping build stronger pathways for women across the industry.

Through practical insights, real-world examples, and interactive engagement, attendees will leave with tools and language they can immediately apply to strengthen their impact, advocate for themselves, and champion the success of others.

Valarie A. Nash, SHRM-SCP, CLRP
President & Founder, 821 Consulting LLC

Valarie A. Nash is the President and Founder of 821 Consulting LLC, an Ohio-based HR consulting and leadership development firm that partners with organizations across both the public and private sectors to strengthen leadership, culture, and workplace effectiveness. With more than two decades of experience in human resources, Valarie is known for her practical, engaging approach to helping leaders navigate complex workforce challenges and build high-performing teams.

Valarie holds the Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) credential from the Society for Human Resource Management and is a Certified Labor Relations Professional (CLRP) through the National Public Employer Labor Relations Association. Her work frequently supports government agencies, nonprofits, and private employers across Ohio, where she provides strategic HR guidance, organizational development support, and dynamic leadership training.

A highly sought-after speaker, Valarie has presented for professional associations, leadership conferences, and HR organizations throughout the region on topics including leadership accountability, workplace culture, generational dynamics, and decision-making. She currently serves as President of the Stark County Human Resource Association (SHRM) and is actively involved in developing the next generation of HR leaders.

Valarie founded 821 Consulting as a tribute to her father’s entrepreneurial spirit and as a legacy for her daughter and granddaughter. Through her work, she is passionate about helping organizations—and the people who lead them—grow stronger, more confident, and better prepared for the future.