An immersive experience in personal leadership growth through the exploration of community sectors, challenges and opportunities.
Registration is now open!
Join a growing group of more than 650 individuals who have graduated from our Leadership Experience program. This 9 month, 10 session program is designed for emerging leaders and high-potential employees to develop essential skills and insights into their leadership character. Seats fill up fast, so don’t wait to register.
Through Leadership Experience training, participants will build relationships and gain an inside view of the region’s public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Throughout the program, all are challenged to take the next step in their organization and community.
This program is only offered to Chamber Members. Cost is $1,895 per person and limited to 40 individuals. Through the support of Anderson Brothers Construction, scholarships (25% discount) are available to small businesses (up to 5 employees) and non-profit organizations with financial limitations. Just ask.
Sessions held approximately 8AM - 5PM
Monthly sessions from September - May
Sessions held locally, locations vary
SESSION #1
Thursday, September 24 & Friday, September 25, 2026
- Opening Retreat: DiSC Assessment, Next Level Leading, Effective Communication, Managing Change and Reducing Conflict, Community Service Projects
- One overnight stay on September 24th
- Session attendance is mandatory
SESSION #2
Thursday, October 8, 2026
- Tourism Experience
SESSION #3
Thursday, November 5, 2026
- Non-Profits Experience
SESSION #4
Thursday, December 3, 2026
- Manufacturing & Construction Experience
SESSION #5
Thursday, January 14, 2027
Mid-year Retreat: Deep dive into Leadership Development including additional assessments (Emotional Intelligence 2.0 or Strengths Finder), conflict resiliency skills, revisiting goals for the year, and team building.
SESSION #6
Thursday, February 4, 2027
Education Experience
SESSION #7
Thursday, March , 2027
Health Care Experience
SESSION #8
Thursday, March or April, 2027
- Date TBD (based on state government schedule)
- Community Experience: Legislative Day at the Capitol
- A stop at KSTP with Anchor Kevin Doran
SESSION #9
Thursday, April 22, 2027
- Public Service Experience
SESSION #10
Thursday, May 6 - Friday, May 7, 2027
- Media Experience morning of May 6
- End of the Year Retreat: Additional leadership development, a review of assessments and their application to growth in leadership, and next steps
- Afternoon/Evening of the 6th with overnight stay optional, finishing in the afternoon on the 7th
- Commencement and Class Reunion will be held at the Celebration of Excellence in November 2027
Erik Therwanger, Think GREAT
Liz Uram, Talent Development Co.
Paula Chapulis, Blue Ox Business Academy
Take it from our graduates.
"Leadership Experience is for anyone looking to take the next step in their career."
"A peek behind the curtain of many industries in the Brainerd Lakes Area and an opportunity to pick the brains of the people who help make it successful. "
"A program that not only develops you as a leader, but also helps you see how to improve your organization."
Deadline to Register: September 8, 2026
