Andy, founder of JUMPSTART, has a distinguished career in psychiatric care, crisis response, and de-escalation. He created one of the largest Psychiatric Emergency Response Team (PERT) programs in the U.S. and its training program. With extensive Firefighter/EMT experience, Andy equips organizations with proven safety strategies in high-stakes situations.

Dan's 40+ year career at Western State Hospital (WSH) reflects his expertise in leadership, crisis intervention, and operational management. From Mental Health Technician to Director of Security, he supported over 2,600 employees and 1,000 patients. Also serving in the Washington Air National Guard, Dan’s certifications in Critical Incident Stress Management and LEAN/Six Sigma highlight his commitment to safety and collaboration.

A seasoned trainer and speaker, his background includes 25 years as a pastor and founding Breakingwalls Ministries.

Dan is celebrated for mentoring, fostering partnerships, and shaping organizational culture with a focus on trauma, stress, and workplace violence.

Candis is a Crisis and De-escalation Specialist whose personal journey fuels her passion and expertise in her field. Overcoming challenges such as substance misuse and abuse in the foster care system, she began her recovery journey in 2018, returning to Washington State to rebuild her life with purpose and resilience.

Armed with a BA in Human Services and a Reentry Certificate, Candis has successfully managed Thurston County's largest homeless shelter, where she developed and implemented impactful crisis management strategies.

Committed to empowering youth and marginalized communities, she works with organizations to enhance crisis response systems, prioritizing safety, dignity, and respect for vulnerable populations.

Drew Bair, LCSW, is a seasoned trainer and mentor with expertise in education, government, and nonprofit sectors. He specializes in working with at-risk youth in public schools and juvenile justice settings, equipping staff with skills to manage challenging behaviors effectively.

Drew excels in developing preventive and intervention strategies that reduce punitive measures and enhance workforce effectiveness. His leadership has driven systemic improvements, including peer support initiatives that benefit both students and staff.

Passionate about sustainable change, he helps organizations implement best practices that foster positive, lasting impacts.

Nate has built a career in public safety, community service, and leadership development. With experience as a firefighter and EMT, he gained expertise in emergency services across multiple counties.

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As a founding member of the Arrest and Jail Alternatives Team, he advanced innovative justice and crisis response efforts.

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Now in local government, Nate focuses on enhancing his community and helps businesses cultivate leadership skills, reflecting his commitment to service, growth, and empowerment.

Grace Icenogle, Ph.D., is a research psychologist dedicated to reforming Washington State’s juvenile justice system. She focuses on reducing seclusion and restraints in juvenile facilities statewide, advocating for safer, more effective interventions.

With expertise in data-informed decision-making and program development, Grace is passionate about implementing evidence-based strategies that enhance staff training and youth outcomes.

She joins Jumpstart Mastery to empower professionals with critical de-escalation skills, fostering safer environments and more compassionate approaches to behavioral challenges.

Cody began teaching ACIT in 2020 at Western State Hospital and quickly developed a passion for providing consistent, supportive de-escalation to individuals in crisis. Having family members who have been committed to psychiatric hospitals, he deeply understands the importance of reducing seclusion and restraint.

Originally from Louisiana, Cody earned a degree in Health and Physical Education from Southeastern Louisiana University and has worked in education, nutrition programs, and mental health services.

Now in Juvenile Rehabilitation, he trains staff, provides in-the-moment coaching, and supports crisis de-escalation. A former collegiate wrestler and MMA champion, he enjoys outdoor adventures with family.

Neil holds a Bachelor’s in International Affairs from Lewis & Clark College, focusing on public diplomacy, languages, and Middle Eastern politics. His global experiences led him to New Orleans, where he earned a Master of Social Work from Tulane University, specializing in Disaster Mental Health and Trauma Studies.

After interning at the Orleans Public Defenders office, he worked in permanent supportive housing. In 2020, Neil moved to Olympia, WA, where he now leads peer specialist teams supporting individuals facing criminal justice, homelessness, and behavioral health challenges. He currently directs the adult behavioral health department at a large nonprofit in Thurston County, fostering innovative community partnerships between human services and public safety.

Hannah is an instructor with a background in healthcare and a Bachelor's in psychology. She has served communities facing health disparities, working in clinical settings where de-escalation and self-regulation are essential to quality care.

Her teaching style is rooted in psychology and education, emphasizing both understanding and practical application. Passionate about learning, she fosters a supportive environment that empowers students.

A firm believer in creating meaningful, lasting change, Hannah is dedicated to equipping others with the skills to make a positive impact in their fields.

Michelle brings a wealth of experience in crisis intervention and law enforcement. Before policing, she led the King County Veterans Program, assisting homeless veterans in Seattle.

Now a Crisis Coordinator for a local police agency, she responds to behavioral health crises, provides de-escalation support, and collaborates with community resources. A certified Crisis Negotiator and Crisis Intervention Specialist, she also leads her department’s Peer Support Team and Honor Guard. With master’s degrees in Criminal Justice and Human Services Counseling, she is pursuing a doctorate in Traumatology.

A proud Air Force veteran, Michelle is committed to trauma-informed, person-centered crisis response.

Chad is a Community Outreach Officer and instructor with Jumpstart Mastery, specializing in VerbalCraft and ACIT. Drawing on his experience as a police officer, he builds positive relationships between law enforcement and the community.

Chad is also a certified Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) instructor, equipping individuals to address mental health challenges. A retired U.S. Army member, he brings leadership and crisis management expertise to his work.

With a Master’s degree in Human Service Counseling, focusing on Crisis Response and Trauma, Chad is dedicated to navigating complex situations with compassion, professionalism, and a commitment to community well-being.

Jess is a dedicated Relationship Manager at Jumpstart Mastery, playing a vital role behind the scenes to ensure smooth operations and support the organization’s mission.

With a passion for making a difference, she excels at fostering connections, streamlining processes, and enhancing team efficiency. Jessica is committed to helping others and driving meaningful change, bringing her expertise and dedication to every aspect of her work.

Her ability to navigate challenges and support the organization’s growth makes her an invaluable asset to the team. Through her efforts, Jumpstart Mastery continues to thrive and deliver impactful training programs.

Carolina has firsthand experience with substance use disorder and mental health challenges, giving her unique insight into the struggles of underserved communities.

With a background in intensive case management, she has worked closely with unhoused individuals, applying crisis de-escalation skills gained through ACIT training to connect them with vital resources. Currently studying Public Policy and Psychology at Evergreen State College, Carolina is committed to improving quality of life, expanding access to essential services, and fostering empowerment and self-efficacy.

Her passion lies in advocating for equitable policies that support marginalized populations and drive meaningful, lasting change in their lives.

Karen has over 20 years of experience working with at-risk youth in Juvenile Rehabilitation, providing crisis support and intervention. Since 2021, she has been training ACIT and Verbal Craft, applying these principles daily in juvenile justice.

Specializing in school-based interventions, she helps students remain in the classroom by identifying and addressing barriers to their success. Known for her ability to connect with youth, she fosters trust and engagement.

A strong advocate for verbal de-escalation, Karen is committed to reducing trauma and promoting positive outcomes for youth within the juvenile justice system.