Lincoln Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Class: Building tomorrow's leaders

The Lincoln Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Class has been developing leaders since 2013. It is designed to cultivate leadership skills, foster community engagement and empower individuals to take initiative. Each year, a diverse group of participants comes together to embark on a transformative journey that shapes their careers, enriches their lives and strengthens the bonds within the Lincoln area. The Chamber's Leadership Class is built on a simple vision: to present information that will help the participants strengthen their knowledge about the community and where they see themselves contributing. The program was established to help emerging leaders, whether in business, education, government, retired or people in the community who just want to know more about the place in which they live, with the tools they need to be successful. Over the years, this program has produced a network of leaders who are deeply committed to fostering economic growth, advocating for civic engagement and enhancing the overall quality of life in Lincoln and surrounding areas. Some of the graduates have gone on to become members of city and county committees, councils and boards, leaders of service organizations and much more. A major success from the class was the partnership of the youth organization, The Foundry and the Western Placer Unified School District, which provides after-school activities for middle and high school students. The Leadership Class is structured around a comprehensive curriculum. Participants engage in a wide range of topics, including the history of Lincoln, Lincoln Civics, service clubs and volunteerism, media and arts, regional issues and transportation, education, health and human services, agri-tourism manufacturing and community leadership. Each session is facilitated by industry experts, civic leaders and business executives, ensuring participants receive a well-rounded perspective. Additionally, field visits to local businesses, government offices and nonprofit organizations provide an immersive learning experience. The Lincoln Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Class is more than just a professional development program; it's a catalyst for change. As alumni continue to make their mark, the program's legacy grows, proving leadership isn't just about personal success – it's about making a difference in the lives of others. The Lincoln Area Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications for the 2025-2026 Leadership Program, which runs from September through May. Participants attend a one-day-a-month session from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. with classes held the third Thursday of each month. It's open to anyone interested in Lincoln and Placer County. The cost is $495 for Chamber members or $595 for non-members. The application is available online at www.lincolnchamber.com. The deadline to apply is Aug. 1.