March NTTM: Prepared to Respond: Supporting Guests and Employees with Autism in Tribal Gaming
Topic: Title: March NTTM: Prepared to Respond: Supporting Guests and Employees with Autism in Tribal Gaming
Date: March 19, 2026 | Time: 2:00 PM EDT
Description: Tribal gaming serves a wide range of guests and employs a diverse workforce, including individuals on the autism spectrum. This training is designed to enhance awareness, preparedness, and informed response strategies. With opening remarks by Lynn Valbuena, Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation Chairwoman, featured speakers, Dino Beltz, a 24-year veteran battalion chief with the San Manuel Fire Department, created the Neurodivergent Operational Awareness (NOA(h)) training program, motivated by his son Noah, who is on the autism spectrum and George Jenkot, VP of Security and Surveillance with Firekeepers Casino Hotel who will discuss his operations training program. The initiative equips first responders with tools to better recognize and compassionately engage with neurodivergent individuals. This special emphasis event will explore practical, respectful, and effective response techniques for guest interactions, crisis situations, and employee support.
Presenters:
Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman, Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation
Dino Beltz, Battalion Chief, San Manuel Fire Department
George Jenkot, VP of Security and Surveillance, Firekeepers Casino Hotel
Eddie Ilko, Safety and Occupational Health Manager, National Indian Gaming Commission