Emerging Leaders is a dynamic program designed for professionals looking to develop and grow their leadership capabilities, enhance their knowledge of Montgomery County, and build their network.

This program is designed and facilitated by a network of professional coaches, facilitators, and accredited experts who help participants establish their leadership capabilities. Emerging leaders can help build skill development with a continued focus on professional growth while providing space for equity exploration by creating and presenting race equity projects. They also build their knowledge of the county through site visits, engagement with leaders across the sectors, and team projects addressing pressing county-wide issues.

As a result, they emerge as more well-rounded, informed, and connected leaders who are better able to plan and implement a progressive path toward higher leadership positions.

In addition, the program offers exclusive opportunities beyond session days, such as learning enhancements, group projects, and special engagement events.

While there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to program acceptance, participants typically possess the following:

• Years of professional experience: 3-5 years
• Job Title(s) Manager, Program/Project Manager, Program Director, Specialist, Supervisor, Associate
• Organizational responsibilities:  Program/Project Management, Duties defined by a specific functional area, such as communications, budget, development

Participants leave the program as part of an exclusive alumni network of more than 2,500 emerging and established leaders who are better informed of county history and present-day realities. They also emerge better connected to the people, organizations, and service opportunities that can collectively move  Montgomery County forward.

Organizations supportive of their staff member’s participation can gain additional visibility and recognition as being committed to the improvement of Montgomery County as well as engaged employees with access to a network that can assist in helping businesses thrive.

The EL Program occurs from September to May of each year. Each session day typically runs from 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.   Session dates for the Class of 2026: