Emerging Leaders
Shaping the Next Generation of Power Players
The Chamber is committed to identifying and unleashing the next generation of Southern Arizona’s power players and business executives for leadership succession – young leaders who are prepared for advanced leadership roles in their own companies and in the wider community, to move this region forward and drive economic growth and prosperity.
The Chamber’s 2026 Emerging Leaders Program is designed for under 40, mid-career professionals who are on the rise; people who have already shown strong leadership in their jobs and ready to grow to the next level. Ideal for professionals just beginning to get involved in the community, who can commit to a 10-month engagement.
- Not a networking club: Selective and outcome based.
- Business First: Cohort leans towards private sector & focuses on Chamber priorities.
Cost
- Competitive Application Process
- Tuition: $3,000 per participant
Time Commitment
10-month program beginning March 2026.
Meets once per month, with mentoring sessions scheduled based on need. Each session will run for three hours between 2:00 and 5:00 p.m. on the third Wednesday of the month. Location TBA.
Who Should Apply: Participant Profile
The right candidates are new in management or are rising executives, have the potential to advance in senior roles, have a solid base of experience and are looking to make a bigger impact in their community as well as their company.
They care about the future of Tucson and Southern Arizona and want to be part of shaping it. They may be new to community involvement or looking for a way to turn their passion for leadership into something bigger.
They’re not just focused on climbing the career ladder, they want to lead with purpose, build lasting relationships and make a difference beyond the workplace.
This program is primarily geared to private sector, up-and-coming leaders. While admission is guaranteed for Trustee and Platinum members of any industry, beyond this level of investment, the program will limit participants to private sector.
Program Objectives: Issues Exposure & Input, Mentoring and Advanced Professional Skills
Broader Perspective: Get exposure to regional issues, building systems thinking, critical for future leadership roles.
Expanded Networks: Build connections that bring fresh ideas and opportunities back to your company.
Mentoring: Participants are assigned a senior level mentor from the Chamber leadership ranks, who will meet regularly with participants and guide them in reaching program and individual objectives.
Sharper Problem-Solving: Learn to think strategically and act decisively, making the participant more effective in high-stakes situations.
Confident Leadership: From team meetings to boardrooms, participants learn to speak with clarity, empathy and influence.
2026 Application
PROGRAM COMMITMENT REQUIREMENTS
This is a 10-month leadership development program requiring a time commitment:
- Meets once per month. Each session will run for three hours between 2:00 and 5:00 p.m. on the third Wednesday of the month. Location TBA.
- Mentoring sessions scheduled based on need.
By submitting this application, you confirm your availability and commitment to attending all scheduled program components from March 2026 through December 2026.
Connect With Us
Please reach out to us to learn more about the Emerging Leaders program and its benefits.
Michael Guymon
Chief Advocacy Officer
Email