“You MUST embrace continuous education and be committed to lifelong learning to survive and thrive in the Chamber business.” – from “Chamber Champions” by W.A.C.E. President Dave Kilby
In addition to the normal W.A.C.E. Academy, the association will once again be offering Academy-Plus, a special professional development training program on August 1 and 2 in Sacramento for Academy and U.S. Chamber Institute graduates.
“We’ve been focused, through feedback, to deliver an Academy-Plus program that speaks to relevant topics and addresses the professional and personal needs of executives in our industry,” said W.A.C.E. Vice Chair Colin Diaz, ACE, IOM, president/CEO of the Tempe (AZ) Chamber. “This kind of ‘iron sharpening iron’ education, particularly for those that have gone through Academy and/or Institute, is critical for the future of our industry.”
Based on feedback from last year’s program, this year’s Academy-Plus sessions will be facilitated discussions that will be VERY interactive with plenty of sharing opportunities for participants and workshops on BOTH chamber program and personal development.
Chamber Programs
The three-hour afternoon program on Monday, August 1 will focus on two areas: “Future Proofing Your Chamber” and “Next Level Financing for Chambers.”
These facilitated sessions will take a deep dive into best practices and focal points to ensure that chambers continue to move from relevant to essential. The portion of the program on funding will investigate course corrections, cuts and new sources of funding.
Personal Development
The three-hour morning personal development session on Tuesday, August 2 will focus on “Balance, Boundaries and Burnout” and will investigate the do’s and don’ts when thinking about and dealing with change and a career move.
In addition to the above programs, the Academy-Plus attendees will be participating in the Monday night dinner event with all the Academy program participants.
“In our positions of leading chambers, it is often difficult to hold yourself accountable. Through programs like W.A.C.E. Academy-Plus, friendships and mentorships are created and developed,” said Bobby Spiegel, president/CEO of the Corona (CA) Chamber. “I truly encourage you to consider taking the next step in your improvement, leadership development and, who knows, you might be the perfect mentor for someone, as well.”
Registration
Registration for Academy-Plus is $300 per person and includes the two workshops, breaks and the Monday evening dinner.
Space is limited. The deadline to register is July 15 or when sold out. Registration information is available on the W.A.C.E. website.
