Mission:
To engage members of the almond community in creating a culture of lifelong leadership development, networking, education, and service.
Vision:
Cultivate and inspire passionate leaders for years to come.
In 2009, Almond Board of California (ABC) set out to encourage a new group of individuals with diverse backgrounds to become leaders in the almond community. The result was the creation of the Almond Leadership Program. The yearlong program is designed to provide a mentored experience for the next generation of leaders, and includes leadership training seminars, hands-on educational opportunities, field experience and a firsthand look at the inner workings of ABC. Through the Almond Leadership Program, participants will learn how to effectively lead, manage and inspire others in the almond community; enhance business relationships; understand current social, political, scientific and economic issues facing almonds; and master communication and leadership techniques relevant to managing or retaining a leadership role in almond organizations and their local community.
Eligibility Requirements
- Reside in the state of California.
- Have been employed for at least one year in your current role in an almond-related position.
- Demonstrate the willingness to learn and apply leadership skills within the almond community.
- Obtain employer permission prior to submitting an application.
- If self-employed, establish the ability to be away from his/her business for all scheduled events.
- Commit to completing assignments or reports as needed to successfully complete the program.
- Attend all seminars
- Complete a Job Shadow
- Research, report and present a Special Project
- Complete four quarterly self-evaluations
- Initiate contact with your mentors once a month
- Work with classmates to raise funds for FFA scholarships
- Share industry knowledge with classmates
- Host team-building activities
The program consists of approximately 110 hours of seminars and events, and 70 hours of interactive learning to complete assignments (time estimates do not include travel time). Attendance at all seminars and events is mandatory. All applicants must have reliable transportation and be available to travel to seminars and events as scheduled. Full consideration will be provided to all applicants regardless of age, gender, race or other distinguishing characteristics.
Evaluation and Review of Applications
A panel will evaluate completed applications. Consideration will be given to applicants who show the greatest potential to further the interests of the California almond community. Applicants will be notified to schedule a personal interview with ABC staff and other stakeholders in the Almond Leadership Program. Successful applicants will be notified by email.
Participant Costs
The Almond Leadership Program does not charge for participation in the program. Any costs incurred with mileage will be reimbursed at the government rate. Educational materials, meals and occasional lodging accommodations are paid for courtesy of Almond Board. Please note that participants in ALP may incur small incidental expenses associated with scheduled seminars, industry events, and special projects. These costs are the responsibility of the participant and should be paid for at the time of the event.