The virtual cohort of the Executive Leadership-Integrated Leadership Program kicked off last week, bringing together leaders from several member companies. The program equips participants with the skills to lead their teams and organizations and provides them with the tools to become intentional, accountable leaders.
Over 30 participants joined from various locations across the country for the first of four sessions led by Heidrick & Struggles. Facilitated by Laura Gironda and Doug Orr, the program offered participants a valuable opportunity to engage in thoughtful dialogue and hands-on exercises centered around leadership development. The sessions encouraged reflection, peer-to-peer learning, and practical application, all aimed at helping participants grow as impactful leaders within their organizations and the broader industry.
At the beginning of the program, participants met in breakout rooms to discuss what they were looking to get out of it. Responses included implementing leadership tools immediately, building trust within teams, refining how to have difficult conversations, identifying shortcomings and working on those identified (self-reflection), and recognizing stress and how to manage it.
Over the course of the initial session, other topics discussed included the difference between a manager and a leader, the various levels of influence, the shadow of leadership, and what is involved in becoming an effective mentor.
At the end of the program, participants shared what they learned, appreciated or understood better after the first session. Along with the concept of the Shadow of Leadership being highly recognized as helpful and insightful, one person shared, “I have learned that even though some of the others in this meeting are from other companies, we share some of the same problems/concerns. Nice to hear solutions from others outside of our immediate bubbles.”
Another stated, “I appreciate the passion that the members of this group are bringing to the conversations. It’s clear we have a group of individuals who want to be better and make an impact on those in their sphere of influence.”
In addition to the seminars for these year-long programs, participants engage in leadership development activities outside their company. They also attend at least two Energy Workforce leadership meetings, such as leadership forums, where participants engage and network with energy leaders from across the industry. The program includes executive coaching from Heidrick & Struggles as well as valuable mentorship from members of the Energy Workforce’s Board of Directors and Advisory Board. This gives participants a unique opportunity to receive strategic career advice and develop relationships with industry leaders.
The Integrated Leadership Program is the second tier of the Leadership Programs offered by Energy Workforce, with others including Cultivating High-Performing Teams and Cultures and Frontline Leadership.
For any questions about the programs, contact Vice President Programs & Events Peggy Helfert.
Peggy Helfert, Vice President Programs & Events, writes about the Energy Workforce’s sector-specific best practices and leadership. Click here to subscribe to the Energy Workforce newsletter, which highlights sector-specific issues, best practices, activities and more.
