David Wakeling, CPP, is the Region 1 Advisor and 2017 Payroll Man of the Year. He serves as the liaison between APA and local chapters in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Nevada, Utah, and Hawaii. 
Learn more about David Wakeling, CPP, with this exclusive Q&A session!
What were your thoughts when you were asked to serve on the Board of Advisors?
I was totally surprised! When I learned of the other Board of Advisors and their leadership accomplishments, I thought I might be in over my head. However, it has been a great honor to be able to associate with and learn from these dedicated leaders. It was LaTisha O’Neal, CPP that I turned to for advice when teaching my very first APA seminar and I have seen such dedication and hard work from Ronald Gilson, CPP during the Utah Statewides.
What is a fond memory you have made with your Region during your term as Board of Advisor?
The Chapter Exchange at Congress was a great way to meet chapter leaders. Chapter members came up to me and introduced themselves. It was such a joy to meet and get to know them better. I have also had a chance to meet some of the chapter members during APA seminars that I teach as well as APA Committee conference calls.
What advice you would like to give to the chapters in your Region?
Stay closely in touch with your chapter members via LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, etc. Reach out to chapter members that are timid or shy and get them involved. You will be amazed by what they have to offer. As chapter leaders, work closely with your board members to develop great chapter meetings that are interesting and meaningful. This is one of the best ways to keep and grow your chapter.
What do you like most about being on the Board of Advisors?
I have learned so much from being a Board of Advisor. The Summer Board Meeting and LinkedIn/Twitter sessions have especially provided great opportunities to exchange ideas and information. It is an honor to be a member of the Board, and to be able to support the chapters in Region 1. I am where I am at today because of the APA. I hope to be able to help others succeed in their professional payroll careers as well.
What were you surprised to learn about the chapters in your Region?
I was surprised to see that many of the APA Committee Chairpersons and other APA Leaders continue to serve in chapter leadership roles. Even though they may have moved on to other things, they are continuing to support their chapters to help develop future leaders.
Are you a proud chapter leader in Region 1? Introduce yourself to David in the comments below or send him an email.
David Wakeling, CPP began his 2-year term as the Region 1 Board of Advisor in May 2017.
