Why You Must Act Now for Leadership Pickens County
A Premier Professional Development Program for Emerging and Established Leaders in Pickens County
Why You Must Act Now for Leadership Pickens County
If you’ve spent any time in the local business community, you’ve likely heard the name Leadership Pickens County (LPC). It is our region’s premier professional development engine, sponsored by the Greater Pickens, Clemson, and Easley Chambers of Commerce.
But there is a catch: every year, this program fills up faster than a stadium on a Saturday in the fall. If you are considering nominating an employee or applying yourself, the time to move is now.
What is Leadership Pickens County?
LPC is an intensive, 10-month program designed to take emerging and existing leaders on a deep dive into the inner workings of Pickens County. It isn’t just about sitting in a boardroom; it’s about boots-on-the-ground experience.
Starting with an orientation in August and a retreat in September, participants spend the first Tuesday of every month exploring:
- State & Local Government
- Economic Development & Infrastructure
- Healthcare & Human Services
- Education & Workforce Development
- Recreation, Tourism, & Quality of Life
The "Under 25" Rule: Why It Matters
We are often asked why we don’t simply expand the class size to meet the high demand. The answer is simple: Quality over Quantity.
We strictly limit each class to under 25 applicants. Keeping the group small ensures:
- Direct Access:Â Participants get face-time with city officials, CEOs, and community movers and shakers.
- High-Impact Networking:Â You aren't just a face in a crowd. You form lifelong bonds with the other 24 leaders in your cohort.
- Collaborative Problem Solving:Â The small group allows for real discussion on the challenges facing our county.
Pro-Tip for Employers:Â Because the class is so small, we prioritize a "diversified group" of industries and backgrounds. If you want your organization represented, getting that application in early is the single best way to secure a spot.
The ROI for Your Business
When you send an employee through Leadership Pickens County, they don't just return with a certificate. They return with a vastly expanded network, a better understanding of the local economic landscape, and the refined leadership skills necessary to move your company forward.
As Jason Segers of Amicalola EMC once said: "Am I a better citizen, employee, and volunteer because of Leadership Pickens? Yes!"
How to Apply
Applications for the upcoming class are typically due in late summer, but the "informal" list begins much earlier. Don't wait for the deadline to start the conversation.
- Visit the Program Page: Leadership Pickens County Details
- Contact Your Local Chamber:Â Reach out to the Pickens, Clemson, or Easley Chamber offices for specific application dates and tuition details.
