Jason Anderson is a Senior Trainer and training developer at The Montana Institute, where he focuses on teaching others how to use the Science of the Positive and Positive Community Norms to transform community health.

After serving in the United States Army, Jason obtained his Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice with a Minor in Psychology from Moorhead State University. He worked in the field of probation for 25 years, spending a decade as an adult felony probation/parole agent and five years as an Evidence-Based Practices project manager/trainer for the MN Department of Corrections. In 2013, he became the Director of the Itasca County Probation Department and transitioned a full-time consultant/trainer in 2023. Jason is a lively and successful trainer, having trained thousands of individuals on topics including Motivational Interviewing since 2001. He co-developed “Let’s Talk: A Science of the Positive Approach to Community Conversations” with Dr. Linkenbach at The Montana Institute, based on the seven core principles of the Science of the Positive. Jason has served as an active member of two school-based substance abuse prevention coalitions in his community.

In his role at TMI, Jason develops and facilitates both virtual and in-person training sessions and delivers keynote addresses. With 25 years of experience in probation and parole and 20 years in professional development training, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his work. He is also a certified Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT) Trainer.

Jason finds immense reward in introducing communities to a framework that acknowledges problems yet focuses on growing the good that already exists. He hopes to help community members achieve increased job satisfaction and engagement while making meaningful progress in their prevention efforts.

Outside of work, Jason cherishes outdoor activities, dabbles in community theater, and enjoys singing in his church choir. Additionally, he serves on his local Veteran's Crisis Response Team, providing crisis stabilization and support to veterans in his community.