The mission of the Washington Association of District Employees is to increase the effectiveness of conservation districts and their employees; foster a mutual partnership between conservation agencies, organizations, and associations through enhanced communication and professional improvement.
Jan’s work leading the Center for Technical Development has had a profound impact on the training and support available to all conservation district staff. Her strategic thinking, clear communication, and dedication to building capacity across the state reflect her quiet yet powerful leadership.
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We are proud to recognize the incredible talent and dedication of our colleagues through this year’s 2025 WADE Awards. Congratulations to all the nominees for your outstanding service to conservation efforts across Washington State!
Emily Bustamante, Education Lead – Okanogan Conservation District
Tony Fyrqvist, Finance Manager – San Juan Islands Conservation District
Ryan Gelwicks, Farm Planner – Skagit Conservation District
Carly Lemon, Professional Engineer – Underwood Conservation District
Eli Loftis, Wildfire & Community Resiliency Lead – Okanogan Conservation District
Susan Shelton, Finance & Administration Director – Thurston Conservation District
Matt Stewart, Quarry Stewardship Coordinator – Spokane Conservation District
Jan Thomas, CTD Program Manager – Underwood Conservation District
Kim Williams, Executive Director – Clallam Conservation District
Courtney Woods, Grants Manager – Washington State Conservation Commission
Sierra Young, Conservation Planner – Jefferson County Conservation District
Award Recipients:
Kim Williams, Clallam Conservation District
Kim has shown remarkable strength and resilience during a challenging time, keeping her district afloat through sheer determination and leadership. Her integrity, insight, and commitment to doing what's right have made her an inspiring example of courage under pressure.
Courtney Woods, Washington State Conservation Commission
Courtney plays a vital role in nearly every aspect of SCC’s financial operations and training support. Her deep institutional knowledge, strong work ethic, and ability to bridge communication across the conservation network make her an indispensable partner to districts across the state.
Carly Lemon, Underwood Conservation District
Carly brings exceptional technical skill and professionalism to her engineering work statewide. She’s a thoughtful collaborator, a steady leader, and a generous mentor—always willing to share knowledge and support successful outcomes for colleagues and landowners alike.
Congratulations to all the nominees and this year’s award recipients!
The WADE board is now accepting nominations for the WADE Employee of the Year award. All past and current CD employees, WACD, and WSCC employees are eligible for nominations, and anyone can nominate a person for this award. A person may submit more than one nomination.
Nomination questions are to be sent to Zorah Oppenheimer zoppenheimer@clarkcd.org. Deadline for applications is 4pm on Friday, May 9, 2025 .
WADE is partnering with the CTD to support District employees in a number of ways. Please visit their webpage to learn more about certification, training, quality assurance and more: