Leadership Team
Erik Peterson, President of NPA Return-to-Work Services (NPA), joined NPA in the Return-to-Work (RTW) field in 2005. As President, Erik leads all aspects of operations, sales, client relations and design, development, and implementation of the OUR System Return-To-Work program. Erik’s unparalleled passion for Return-to-Work, dynamic people skills and creative approach to problem-solving are appreciated by both his customers and co-workers. Erik’s professional background and innate business sense provide NPA’s customers with practical, real-life solutions while carving the future of Return-To-Work with a client-centric approach.
Typography
Sarah Morris-Peterson, Vice President, joined NPA in 2006. Sarah’s background in systems analysis, software design, and quality management provides the foundational expertise to effectively manage NPA’s operations. Originally from Canada, Sarah holds a degree in Information Technology as well as a Certificate in Business Administration from Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. In addition to overseeing daily operations at NPA, she performs data analysis for management reports and spearheads the BridgIT software project.
Joining NPA in 2016, Skye brings over 25 years of marketing, communications and project management excellence across a variety of industries including collegiate retail, software development and multi-media design. In addition to driving NPA’s marketing, Skye coordinates with the sales team and supports management in daily operations. Skye holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Environmental Science, from Southern Oregon University in Ashland, Oregon. During her free time, Skye is likely to be found playing outside with her family and friends, preferably near water on warmer days.
Since 1987, Michelle Eddy-Wels has been an integral part of the NPA team and brings over 30 years of accounting and business ownership experience. As NPA’s Director of Finance, Michelle manages all aspects of NPA’s finances, assists in HR and business development. Michelle’s longevity defines her as well-versed expert in the OUR System, from implementation and Bridge Assignment development to client management and strategic support. Outside of NPA, Michelle enjoys spending time with her family camping, at the coast or cooking for family gatherings. She has a passion for zip lining and exploring the forest with her dog, Shadow and husband.
Raised in Oregon, Megan graduated from Southern Oregon University with a bachelor’s degree in Human Services. Her background includes training staff, creating systems, efficiency, and management. In her free time, Megan loves being outside either rock climbing, laying by a lake, or gardening. She also enjoys travelling, cooking, and going to concerts.
Demetria graduated with honors from Southern Oregon University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with certification in Medical Coding and Medical Administration in 2014. After a few years of teaching pre-school, Demetria joined the NPA team in 2018 and today brings an in-depth knowledge about Return-To-Work and passion to her position as an Return-To-Work Supervisor. Her favorite place to visit is Rockaway Beach, Oregon, one of the many places she enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
Return-To-Work Team
Bonnie Banks, Senior Return-to-Work Specialist joined NPA in 1996. Bonnie’s strong leadership skills and creativity develop dynamic, customized OUR Systems for a variety of industries including; counties, school districts, rehabilitation and senior living facilities, airports and production and manufacturing companies. Bonnie enjoys the challenge of creating OUR Systems and working closely together with her clients to develop a robust, personalized OUR System specifically designed to meet their unique Return-to-Work needs. Bonnie’s heart passion was founded in 2016 when she began foster parenting dogs for her local animal shelter. The quirkiness of each dog leads to many humorous stories Bonnie loves to share. Bonnie holds Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Portland State University and has worked in the physical and vocational rehabilitation fields since 1986.
Relocating to Southern Oregon from Colorado in 2017, Jen came to work at NPA in January 2019. Jen brings over 15 years of administrative management experience and has been tackling work in medical billing, specifically focused on pain management, since arriving in Oregon. Jen holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theater Design from the University of Northern Colorado. Born to be outdoors wandering up mountains, exploring vineyards or chasing waves at the beach, on the occasion when Jen finds herself inside, she prefers the company of a ball of yarn, knitting needles, good music and most importantly her family and friends.
Alexandra Gastelum joined NPA in 2011 after returning to the Rogue Valley to finish her degree at Southern Oregon University. She joined our team as an Administrative Assistant and excelled in the position. Over the next two years, Alex demonstrated an aptitude for client interaction, task management, and team coordination suited to the demanding position of a Return-to-Work Specialist. The following year she obtained her Bachelor’s degree. Her volunteer experience outside the workplace for disability rights and local nonprofits provides an informed perspective on the challenges facing her clients and their impacted workers. Alex’s clients hail from across California stretching from the Bay Area to the Inland Empire.
Born and raised in Orange County, CA, Dakota moved to Oregon in 2015 where she attended Southern Oregon University (SOU) and graduated with a B.S. in Communications and a minor in Emerging Media and Digital Arts.
Demonstrating her aptitude for leadership and excellent customer service, Dakota worked closely with the Board of Directors to design, build, and open the new Student Recreation Center - a vital resource for SOU campus athletics.
Outside of work she enjoys going to the gym, shopping at TJ Maxx and Target, and exploring Southern Oregon.
Jasmine was born and raised in Portland, OR, moving to Ashland, OR to finish her undergraduate degree at Southern Oregon University in 2019, with a B.S. in Healthcare Administration with a focus in Data Analytics and a minor in Psychology. Currently Jasmine is pursuing a M.B.A in Healthcare Administration at Southern Oregon University.
Jasmine career in healthcare began in 2021 at Providence Medical Group where she focused on improving patient satisfaction for an internship project. From there, she travelled with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), assisting nurses in Covid-19 testing and vaccine administration until joining the NPA team
In Jasmine’s spare time, she enjoys day tripping with her side-pup, Oliver. Together they enjoy hiking, swimming - Oliver more so than Jasmine - and exploring all there is to see around the Southern Oregon and Northern California region.
Born and raised in Paradise, CA, Anni moved to Oregon in 2019 with her family after losing their home in the Camp Fire of 2018. Anni holds a B.A. in Psychology from California State University, Chico inspired by both of her parents working with individuals with disabilities all her life. Anni is excited to be part of NPA Return-to-Work and take advantage of her skills in communication and working with data. When she’s not on a plane on her way to explore a new country, you can find Anni enjoying theatre locally, dancing, spending time with family, or going to visit friends in Chico, CA.
As a lifelong resident of Southern Oregon, Ali received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Southern Oregon University and graduated with honors from Southern New Hampshire University’s, Master’s in Writing program. Having previously worked in advertising, she joined the NPA team in the hopes of using her skills to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. In her free time, you can find her painting, drawing, practicing archery or attending local music events.
Born and raised in Mid-Michigan, Courtney Stewart, moved to Ashland Oregon in 2018 to pursue a Master of Science in Environmental Education at Southern Oregon University. During her studies she discovered her aptitude for administrative work and attention to detail. With her natural love for science, people and reaching individuals with a positive intention, she found herself a perfect fit with the NPA team. Courtney’s background in Scientific research, communication, education, and administration has provided her with the building blocks necessary to work effectively in the field of Return-To-Work.
Olivia Mesco joined the NPA team in January 2023; a longtime resident of Southern Oregon and University of Oregon alumni (‘Sco Ducks!), Olivia provides efficient, friendly, and collaborative assistance to the NPA team with over 6 years’ involvement in customer experience, digital marketing, and sales from Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, Marriott International and local Oregon community-driven businesses including the Ross Ragland Theater. In her free time Olivia enjoys spending time with her dog Prudence Pugglesworth III, reading suspense novels and baking desserts for her friends and coworkers.
Kyah Mollahan was born and raised in Southern Oregon, where her and her partner still reside, raising their family. Upon completing an Associates of Arts degree in business, Kyah worked alongside multiple local coffee companies in Barista Training Management and Technical Advancement. Kyah joined NPA in 2023 and it has been a perfect fit - bringing outstanding communication, a passion for learning, dynamic interpersonal connection, and client focused service. Kyah spends most of her free time with her family and enjoys gardening and family trips to the lake and ocean.
Conor joined our NPA team in June of 2023, moving from the Big Sky Country to the Southern Rouge Valley to start a new life. A child of America, Conor was born in Fresno CA, was raised in Settle WA, Albuquerque NM, Fairfax VA, and then moved to Montana to attended Carroll College in the state capital of Helena. Conor graduated with a bachelor’s degree in international relations, with a minor in economics and a minor in project management. While at Carroll, Conor participated in speech and debate, students in Free Enterprise, and student leadership commission throughout his time. When not at work, Conor likes to spend time with his family and two dogs, playing frisbee golf, hiking, enjoying games with friends, and experimenting with new foods and beverages.
A not-so-recent Oregon transplant, Caleb Pelch originates from Fresno, California and moved to the Southern Oregon Rogue Valley in 2012. As a dual major, Caleb graduated from the University of Oregon with honors in English and Film. Caleb’s editorial eye for detail and desire to help others make him seamlessly fit and a great asset to the NPA team. During the summer, you can find Caleb in Grants Pass, Oregon - acting and exploring with his amateur Shakespeare troupe. In the rest of his free time, Caleb enjoys painting, reading, and doting on his cat.
Originally from northern California, Chris found a home in Southern Oregon, upon graduating from Southern Oregon University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Outdoor Adventure Leadership. His passion for Psychology, connection with others and vibrant personality make Chris a great fit for the NPA team. When he’s not in the office, you can find Chris on the river, the disc golf course or gaming with his friends.
Originally from Avondale, AZ, this Southern Oregon newcomer is adapting well to his new environment. Having recently managed a hostel in Edinburgh, Scotland, Jonathan brings a worldwide perspective to customer service and communication. Along with his passion for education and helping others, Jonathan has found a cozy niche in Southern Oregon at NPA. Jonathan holds a Bachelor’s in Earth Science and Master of Science in Museum Studies. When he’s not rambling about paleontology or geology facts, he’s usually walking his two cats, gaming, or hiking.
A long-time resident of Ashland, Oregon, Angel joined NPA in 2023 after graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Emerging Media and Digital Art from Southern Oregon University. With 7 years in customer service and working as a freelance artist, Angel brings attention to detail, a caring demeanor, and excellent collaboration skills to the NPA team. In her free time, Angel enjoys drawing, listening to music, playing video games, exploring the outdoors, and hanging out with her two cats.