
Leadership Martin County
Leadership Martin County is a program designed to enable candidates to learn about Martin County’s resources, values, strengths, weaknesses, and challenges. This in-depth learning experience focuses on eight key elements of our community: education, economic development, government, healthcare, public safety, quality of life, agriculture, and culture & diversity. The program provides opportunities for candidates to exchange ideas, build networks, and begin the process of identifying and solving important community issues.
About Leadership Martin County
Who: A pool of candidates who are current or prospective leaders in the Martin County community. Candidates are drawn from business, industry, education, public and private agencies, civic groups, non-profits, and virtually all facets of the professional community. Class size is limited.
Program Development: A Chamber-designated Leadership Advisory Committee oversees the program’s development. Riverland Community College and the Chamber assist with seminar curriculum development in cooperation with designated day-leaders.
Where: This localized program was designed by the Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with Riverland Community College’s Training and Development Division. All sessions are facilitated locally and focus on topics directly affecting our community. Seminars are held at a different location each session.
Why: To develop candidate knowledge and understanding of our community—its assets, complexities, and potential. To provide opportunities for participants to meet and exchange ideas with current community leaders. To develop leadership skills through classroom instruction, interactive exercises, and small group discussion.
How: A series of topical seminars held over a nine-month period, conducted by local and regional professionals. Area leaders volunteer their time to provide an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at eight key elements of our community. Peggy Young, Business Consultant with Riverland Community College’s Training and Development Department, leads discussions integrating community information through dialogue, exercises, and group interaction.
Cost: $750 – Tuition is payable when a participant is accepted to candidacy. Scholarship opportunities are available.
When: Monthly sessions run September – May on the first Wednesday of each month. Each session is a full-day commitment. Attendance at all program meetings is imperative. Participants are expected to attend all sessions, except in cases of extreme emergency or illness.
Reward: Investing in Leadership Excellence
Leadership Martin County is more than professional development—it’s an investment in your organization’s future leaders and in the vitality of our local economy.
Participating businesses and organizations benefit through:
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Enhanced leadership capacity: Employees strengthen critical thinking, communication, and team-building skills that translate directly to improved workplace performance.
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Community connection: Participants build valuable relationships with key influencers across business, government, and education sectors, expanding your organization’s local network and visibility.
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Strategic insight: Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities shaping Martin County—insight that supports informed decision-making and long-term growth.
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Employee engagement and retention: Supporting professional development demonstrates your commitment to cultivating leaders who are invested in both your organization and the community.
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Positive reputation: Align your business with a respected leadership initiative that promotes civic responsibility, collaboration, and economic development.
The reward: stronger leaders, stronger organizations, and a stronger Martin County.
Apply
Contact the Shayla at 507-235-5547 or email info@fairmontchamber.org for more information or submit an application.
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