At Atria, vibrant communities come to life thanks to the amazing people who work here. Every team member brings unique experiences, passions and skills to create a dynamic environment where residents can thrive – and employees can too.

In December, this spirit shines during Employee Learning Week. It’s a special time for team members to connect, share their expertise and learn from each other through a series of inspiring and engaging presentations.

“Employee Learning Week has quickly become a favorite tradition,” says Lauren Wheatley, Director of Learning and Development. “We’ve always known that our employees bring a wealth of knowledge, whether it’s skills they use in their roles or hobbies they pursue outside of work. Giving them a space to share that knowledge has been a huge success.”

Last year, Herman Dacong, a driver at Atria Willow Glen, led a class on safe driving tips and updates on new driving laws. His session was engaging and packed with practical advice.

“When I started thinking about a topic, I realized that most people don’t get any refresher training after they get their license,” says Herman. “But there’s a lot of important information that can really make a difference in safety. I thought it’d be helpful to share that with others.”

Herman’s class covered the latest road safety laws and practical tips for handling different driving scenarios. Participants had the chance to ask questions, share their own experiences and pick up techniques to feel more confident behind the wheel. The enthusiasm Herman saw from participants was a highlight for him, and he encourages others to consider leading a class during Employee Learning Week.

“It was a fantastic experience,” he says. “People were eager to learn. Teaching gave me a chance to share something I care about while connecting with people in a different way. I’d tell anyone who’s thought about leading a session to go for it. It’s fun, and you learn a lot in return.”

Beyond offering practical knowledge, Employee Learning Week celebrates Atria’s culture of continuous growth and learning. The sessions cover a wide range of topics, from professional skills and health and wellness to hobbies and personal interests. This year’s schedule promises an exciting lineup of classes, all led by employees from different departments and backgrounds.

“The goal of Employee Learning Week is to create a space for learning and connection – but it’s also a lot of fun!” Lauren says. “There’s a real sense of curiosity and camaraderie that builds with every session. I can’t wait to see what this year brings.”