Board Member Spotlight: Breyanna Bickford, Membership Director
SHRM Topeka is proud to feature our 2023 Board of Directors! Learn more about Membership Director Breyanna Bickford with our Q&A.
Tell us about your experience with SHRM Topeka.
I have had an amazing experience with SHRM Topeka. I have learned a lot through educational chapter meetings, and gotten to meet lots of new people in the HR field! I started out just going to a few meetings here and there, and then I decided to jump in and join the board and the Disrupt HR events committee last year. I was able to make memories I’ll never forget!
How long have you been working in HR?
1.5 years, and it’s everything I thought it would be and more!
What resources do you use to stay up-to-date on HR news and trends?
I use the SHRM (local and national) resources available, webinars, and reading HR materials.
What professional accomplishment are you the most proud of?
In my former career, I received an award for taking the most mortgage applications during a year’s period, which was when rates were low so the applications were coming in very quickly!
What advice do you have for someone new to the HR field?
I would say to lean on your resources, and not stress over the things you don’t know. HR is a very broad field, which is why some HR professionals end up specializing at some point in their careers. It’s easy to compare yourself to others and focus on the things you don’t know instead of being proud of what you do know. Being able to know who your resources are for different situations is more valuable than trying to know everything yourself.
Why should local HR professionals get involved in SHRM Topeka?
Having HR colleagues in the area that you can network and learn with is an amazing opportunity. I believe local HR professionals would feel like our chapter is welcoming and informative. I would encourage anyone considering joining our chapter to do so and get that experience! If you are scared to come because you are scared you wouldn’t know anyone, ask for myself or anyone on the SHRM Topeka board at the registration table! We would love to get to know you and be part of your SHRM Topeka experience!
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time I love to read, watch Netflix, or spend time with my dog! We spend a lot of time at the Lake Shawnee dog park in the summer!
What's one thing you love about Topeka?
Topeka is home for me. Having been born and raised here, I’ve gotten to watch many parts of our city grow! There are so many things to do here on the weekends, and I enjoy getting involved in the community as much as possible.
