The NorthWest Network is made up of instructional designers, technical writers, and performance improvement consultants in Chicago and the surrounding area. Most members have an average of between 10-20 years of experience in their field. However, the group welcomes less experienced members to create mentoring-type relationships. Members who leave the area often stay connected and become referrals for prospective clients in other states.

The NorthWest Network was the brainchild of Becky Lucas, Training Partners Plus, Inc., who hosted the first meeting in 1994 and continues to sponsor and provide leadership to the group. Becky believes that the secret of good networking is that the more you put into the network, the more you get back. Consequently, one of the underlying principles driving the NorthWest Network comes from David McNally, author of Even Eagles Need a Push, "Your rewards in life will be in direct proportion to the contribution you make."

Meetings are held six times a year and are hosted by Training Partners Plus, Inc. with presentations made by the membership. Meetings are used to provide networking opportunities, develop new skills, learn about new developments in various fields. They also provide members with a safe environment in which to practice new skills or pilot new programs.