Leadership Northwest

Step Into Leadership. Shape the Future of Northwest Connecticut.

Leadership Northwest is more than a program — it’s a transformative experience for driven, community-minded professionals ready to lead positive change. If you’re passionate about making Northwest Connecticut a better place to live and work, this is your opportunity to step up, grow, and make an impact.

From October through June, participants come together on the second Wednesday of each month for immersive, full-day sessions. Each session is packed with dynamic workshops, engaging panel discussions, and behind-the-scenes tours of influential state and local organizations — offering rare access and real-world insight into the forces shaping our region.

But the experience doesn’t stop there. You’ll collaborate with a team of peers to design and execute a community-focused service project — putting your leadership into action while creating something meaningful for the region.

Join a network of emerging leaders who are ready to step forward, think boldly, and build a stronger Northwest Connecticut — together.

 

DOWNLOAD THE 2025-2026 LEADERSHIP APPLICATION

Class of 2024-2025 Graduates

The Mission of Leadership Northwest is to:

  • Deepen the commitment of community and business leaders to advancing our region.
  • Educate participants on the key economic, social, and political factors shaping our state and region.
  • Strengthen the leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills of local leaders.
  • Build a strong network of emerging community leaders prepared to take on leadership roles and collaboratively address future challenges.

Employers Gain:

  • Employees with increased leadership, organizational and problem solving skills.
  • A strengthened involvement in community affairs.
  • Access to a network of community leaders and resources.
  • Public recognition of their community involvement.
  • Enhanced employee morale.

The Community Gains:

  • A dedicated and well-informed group ready to take on leadership roles within community boards.

  • A diverse network of individuals who understand and value the unique perspectives within our community.

  • A team of emerging leaders with a deeper understanding of the challenges our region faces today — and the opportunities ahead.

Participants Receive:

  • Experience with group dynamics and team leadership, along with professional and personal growth.
  • Understanding of varying leadership styles.
  • Opportunities to communicate with influential regional leaders.

Session Topics Include:

  • Leadership Development & Team Building
  • Social Service & Philanthropy
  • Corporate Leadership Panel
  • Artificial Intelligence & Cybersecurity
  • Emotional Intelligence & Human Resources
  • Government & Economic Development

Commitment:

Commitment Leadership NW participants are expected to attend all scheduled sessions in order to graduate. Times may vary but most sessions generally run from 8:30a.m-12 noon. Participants in the program will require full support from their employer and acknowledgement of the time required away from their position. In addition, participants collaborate on a self-directed community-oriented team project.

What Our Graduates Are Saying:

“This course taught me that leadership is less about titles and more about influence and service. I’m leaving with the confidence to lead authentically and make a meaningful difference.”- Domenic Falcone, Marketing Coordinator | Building Group, O&G

“Any person or any company that is interested in participating in Leadership Northwest should not hesitate. Over the span of nine months, I was able to not only learn about leadership techniques which I could apply to my business but also connect with members and leaders of our community. One of the most beneficial aspects was learning about issues facing our community and contributing to bringing meaningful change to our area.”- Hyun Kang, Owner, Globe Cleaners