Meet SIOP Associate Tonya Echols, Managing Principal at Vigere
Name
Tonya Echols
Position/Employer
Managing Principal at Vigere
How long have you been a SIOP member?
5 years
What roles have you had within SIOP?
Member of the Committee on Ethnic and Minority Affairs (CEMA)
Interest area(s)
Leadership Development, Organizational Development, Leadership Psychology, Neuroscience, Inclusive Leadership, Workplace Culture, Psychometrics
What sparked your interest in I-O psychology?
Through decades in corporate leadership, I became increasingly aware of the psychological dynamics that shape workplace culture, performance, and change. I-O psychology offered the perfect bridge between my passion for human behavior and my commitment to creating healthier, more effective organizations. It provided me with the tools to explore those dynamics more deeply and help leaders and teams grow in a more intentional, evidence-based manner.
What role do you see I-O psychology playing in the future of work?
I see I-O psychology continuing to play a crucial role as a catalyst for human-centered transformation, providing evidence-based insights needed to design systems that promote performance and well-being. From guiding the integration of ethical AI and hybrid work strategies to cultivating inclusive cultures and fostering resilient leadership, I-O psychology will continue to bridge the gap between organizational goals and human potential, ensuring that the future of work is not only more productive but also more psychologically sustainable and meaningful.
What work trends are you seeing and hearing about and how can I-O psychology practitioners, educators, and students impact these trends?
Key trends that come to mind include hybrid and remote work, increased attention to mental health, the integration of artificial intelligence, revisiting inclusion and equity strategies and navigating the impact of the uncertainty of the current global environment’s economic volatility, geopolitical tension, social unrest, and climate-related disruptions the present a challenge both to both organizational stability and individual resilience. I believe I-O psychology professionals are uniquely equipped to address these complexities by bringing scientific, evidence-based, and human insight to organizations and leaders. It is essential that we support systems in creating flexible and inclusive work environments, promoting psychological well-being, guiding the ethical use of emerging technologies, and fostering the development of adaptive, emotionally intelligent leaders to ensure future growth is innovative and efficient while also sustainable, equitable, and deeply human-centered.
What advice would you give to students or those early in their career?
My advice to students and early practitioners is to stay deeply curious and empathetic, remain grounded in the expanding scientific knowledge and research, and always maintain a focus on the human experience and the real-world impact of the work you do. Additionally, it is essential to seek out diverse experiences across all dimensions of difference and identity to broaden your perspective and enhance your adaptability. Embrace collaboration and continuously refine your ability to communicate complex insights in practical, accessible ways.
What is one of your favorite SIOP Annual Conference memories/highlights?
Although the timing of my schedule has not yet provided the opportunity to attend a SIOP Annual Conference, I admire the community that SIOP creates through its numerous events, webinars, and learning experiences, which the organization continually offers throughout the year to maintain connections and expand knowledge. I look forward to experiencing the energy of being among peers who share my passion for the science and practice of I-O psychology at a future annual conference.
Please share one non-I-O-related bit of information about yourself.
I have a deep love of travelling! Exploring different countries, cultures, and ways of life around the world continues to broaden my perspective and enrich my understanding of human behavior and connection. Travel fuels my curiosity, my sense of fun and adventure, and reminds me of the incredibly diverse and shared humanity that exists around the world.
Is there anything you would like to add?
One idea at the core of my life philosophy is that growth occurs when and where we are included, nourished, respected, and empowered. I strive to create space for as much growth as possible for myself and others.
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