February 10-11, 2026
Virtual Class
Credits: 16 QEU/CEU
Credentialing
- New SR/WA: An intermediate elective course that can be applied towards the SR/WA designation.
- Specialist: An intermediate required course for the R/W-URAC certification; an intermediate elective course that can
be applied towards the R/W-AMC, R/W-EC, and R/W-NAC certifications.
Topics
At the conclusion of the two days, the participants will be able to:
Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the requirements, as they relate to negotiationsfor Federal and federally assisted projects under the Uniform Relocation Assistanceand Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, as amended.
Develop an understanding of negotiating styles.
Use practical approaches and tips to improve right of way acquisition settlement rates.
Course Tuition Includes
- Participant Manual
Recommended Material
- Successful Communication and Negotiation Textbook (separate purchase; available
through IRWA’s Publication Store)
Instructor
Krista Chambers, SR/WA embarked on her right of way career with the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) in Great Falls, MT. Over her years at MDT, she honed her expertise in complex negotiations, managing extensive right of way projects across the vast landscapes of Big Sky Country. In 2018, Krista transitioned to HDR Engineering Inc. as a Project Manager. Her relentless dedication soon propelled her into the role of ROW/Real Estate Services Manager for Washington State. In this capacity, she managed all facets of right of way delivery for large-scale infrastructure projects, including MegaProgram initiatives for WSDOT and Sound Transit. Her leadership and expertise were instrumental in navigating complex regulatory environments, fostering strong stakeholder relationships, and delivering projects that significantly enhanced the region’s transportation infrastructure. Drawing on her extensive experience in both public service and consulting, Krista, along with her two daughters, founded Rocky Mountain Land Solutions (a WOSB) in 2024 and partnered with Verdanterra LLC, an engineering, survey and environmental firm. Together, they
form an unparalleled team, delivering comprehensive and innovative infrastructure solutions nationwide. Krista’s academic credentials include a bachelor’s degree in communications from Montana State University. She currently serves as the IRWA Region 7 Chair, is an IRWA CLIMB Certified Instructor, and a member of the International Professional Education Committee (Instructor
Development). Her accolades include the IRWA 2021 W. Howard Armstrong Instructor of the Year and the IRWA 2018 Region 7 Professional of the Year.
Cyndi Whelpley, SR/WA, R/W-RAC started her right of way career with Caltrans in 1992 after graduating from San Diego State University with a bachelor’s degree in public administration. She moved to Washington state in 2000 and has worked for Puget Sound Energy, the Washington State Dept. of Transportation and on local agency projects with Universal Field Services, Inc. Cyndi is currently a Project Manager with HDR, Inc. based in their Everett office. She has also served in the U.S. Naval Reserves with Seabee battalions in the Pacific Fleet, NAS Whidbey Island VR-61 squadron and as a Protocol Officer with the Vice Admiral of the Naval Reserve in New Orleans. Cyndi is a past recipient of the Chapter 4 Professional of the Year award, 2018 Balfour Award Finalist and 2020 Region Professional of the Year. She currently serves as Treasurer of the International Executive Committee. She has earned a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Chapman College and completed the University of Washington’s Project Management Certification program. Cyndi has a heart of service and actively involved in her community with the Rotary International, Soroptomist International of the Americas and serving as a Board member on the Scleroderma Foundation of the Northwest Chapter.
Location
Newrow Conference Call Participant Capacity: 20
Start Time: 8am Pacific
Course Coordinator
Jonathan Quan
Phone: (626)840-0113
E-mail: jonathan.quan@lacity.org
IRWA Member Tuition $415.00
IRWA Non-Member Tuition $575.00
PDF of Course Materials FREE
Printed Course Materials Purchase online
Total Tuition Amount
An electronic copy of your course material will be added to your IRWA Account once your registration is completed.
Printed course materials are only available for purchase until 10 days prior to the class start date.
Register online at www.irwaonline.org / Fax this entire page to IRWA HQ: (310) 538-1471
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