SHRM swears in new board, eyes workforce readiness ahead of CW sunset

The Society of Human Resource Management CNMI Chapter formally installed its 2026-2027 board of directors during a swearing-in ceremony last March 19 at Aqua Resort Club, with newly installed president Polly Masga outlining a workforce-focused agenda amid looming labor challenges.

Masga said the chapter’s leadership reflects a cross-section of industries in the CNMI.

“Our board is actually pretty diverse. We have different members from telecommunications, healthcare, higher education, and even part of our corporate companies here in the CNMI,” she told Marianas Press before the swearing-in.

She emphasized alignment with workforce development efforts as a key priority of her term.

“Well, I really want to make sure that we are aligned with workforce development and how things are going on here in the CNMI,” Masga said, adding that partnerships with stakeholders such as the Saipan Chamber of Commerce and the CNMI Department of Labor will be strengthened.

“I want to make sure that we continue to have these community partnerships… with all other organizations focused on workforce development here in the CNMI.”

Masga also underscored professional development for HR practitioners and small businesses.

“I want to make sure that they are given an opportunity to excel themselves as HR professionals… taking the certification exam under SHRM… I want to elevate our HR professionals here in the CNMI.”

On the approaching 2029 sunset of the CW-1 program, Masga said businesses should already be preparing.

“Well, first and foremost, I think we were given a lot of time. We knew when the sunset was for the CW1 program… I think that businesses and HR professionals alike should already start preparing if they haven’t already.”

She added that efforts are ongoing with Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds to support legislation aimed at sustaining the CNMI workforce.

“Because at the end of the day, we want to make sure that our economy is thriving, our workforce is thriving, and we have adequate individuals here in the CNMI.”

In her inaugural remarks, Masga reiterated SHRM’s broader mission, noting that “the purpose of SHRM is really to elevate the HR profession… [and] create a better workplace where employers and employees thrive together.”

She outlined three chapter goals—delivering “high value relevant learning” tailored to CNMI conditions, expanding partnerships to support workforce initiatives such as apprenticeship programs, and strengthening the pipeline and retention of HR professionals.

“SHRM NMI is more than just a professional organization. We are a partner in building a stronger workforce,” she said.

The newly sworn-in board includes president-elect Plumeria Aldan, treasurer Wendielyn Escota, secretary Anuhea Duenas, membership director Joyce Barnhouse, program director Matthea Guillermo, certification director Frank Gibson, marketing director Roman Tudela, and advisor Frank Ada.

Following the ceremony, a presentation titled “Your Competitive Edge: Building Talent Through the Registered Apprenticeship Program” was delivered in partnership with the CNMI Department of Labor and the Workforce Investment Agency, highlighting strategies to strengthen and grow the local workforce.