Energy Workforce kicked off the second offering of the Executive Leadership: Integrated Leadership program this week. The program, in partnership with Heidrick & Struggles, has garnered a high demand since the first sold-out iteration. Integrated Leadership provides participants with the skills and tools to lead their teams and become accountable leaders effectively. Both iterations were led by Advisory Board Member Doug Orr, Partner, and Laura Gironda, Principal, Heidrick & Struggles.
Peggy Helfert, Vice President of Programs and Events at Energy Workforce & Technology Council, gave an overview of course expectations and deliverables.
23 participants from seven different companies joined on the first day of the program, both in-person and virtually. The session focused on the various levels of leadership and the importance of decision-making in a leadership role.
The group had the opportunity to engage in breakout sessions with their peers and dive deep into what leadership and management meant to them. They discussed what traits were unique to each one and agreed on management being more natural to grasp than leadership.
Attendees also focused on the different levels of leadership and how each level impacts the team. They discussed how influential a leader is and what best practices the group can learn to better lead their organization, such as being confident in decision-making.
“As influential leaders within the organization, it is crucial for us to be comfortable with decision-making, no matter how difficult it may be at times. The organization and team look up to us to keep everyone growing and going in the right direction. Decision-making is truly what drives growth.”
– Participant
The group then engaged in breakout sessions focusing on influential leaders who have made a long-lasting impact on their lives. Both in-person and virtual attendees shared their stories, emphasizing the importance of having a mentor and the value of listening.
“Having a mentor who believes in you is life-changing. When I first began my position, I was constantly doubting my abilities, but the influential leader in my life encouraged me to push through and gave me the confidence I needed to believe in myself. They gave me the space to make mistakes and grow from them.”
– Participant
To wrap up the session, attendees shared their key takeaways from the day and noted the significance of understanding their influence as leaders, how to be a mentor, and the large role integrity plays in an organization.
In addition to the seminars for these yearlong 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 and valuable mentorship from the Energy Workforce’s Board of Directors and Advisory Board members. This gives participants a unique opportunity to receive strategic career advice and to develop relationships with industry leaders.
For any questions about the programs, contact Vice President Programs & Events Peggy Helfert.
Britney Turcios, Marketing Specialist, writes about the Energy Workforce & Technology Council. Click here to subscribe to the Energy Workforce newsletter, which highlights sector-specific issues, best practices, activities and more.
