Talent Development
The Grand Rapids Chamber works to develop top training programs to grow the region’s best talent.
We know that our community’s growth and success are powered by a skilled, diverse workforce. That’s why we’re committed to helping West Michigan businesses to expand the depth and breadth of their talent at every level of the organization. From CEO roundtables to the ATHENA awards, we’re committed to developing a more creative and capable workforce for our community.
Your Team of Talent Development Experts
Monica Mendez
Director of Leadership & Talent Programs
monica@grandrapids.org
Olivia Koster
Senior Talent Development Program Manager
olivia@grandrapids.org
Programs at a Glance
ATHENA Grand Rapids
ATHENA Grand Rapids uplifts, celebrates and recognizes local women who are trailblazers for other women in our community. ATHENA Grand Rapids is more than a program, it is a network. We offer quarterly leadership forums and other networking events to connect local women leaders.
Emerging Leaders Series
This series is designed to help participants grow their career and become actively engaged in the community. The series teaches the keys to becoming a strong community leader and building strong relationships with peers from a variety of sectors and backgrounds.
Leadership Transformed
Leadership Transformed is an executive coaching program that's new in 2023.
This program will challenge participants to step out of their comfort zones and learn more about how they can step up their leadership skills, while also looking deeper within.
This confidential leadership program will gather executives from across West Michigan industries to be vulnerable and work together to develop themselves into the leaders that can take their company to the next level.
Leadership Grand Rapids
Leadership Grand Rapids (LGR) is designed to be unlike any other leadership program, where instead of analyzing leadership tactics and principles, participants are asked to use a systems-thinking approach to tackle real issues facing our community. This approach fosters community trustees who will leave the class with a community-focused mindset that creates a lifelong commitment to creating a thriving and prosperous West Michigan for all. Applications open every March for the following program year.
Women in Leadership
Specifically for the next generation of women leaders in the workplace, Women In Leadership teaches practical concepts and offers a hands-on practicum in the leadership skills you need.
LeadUp
LeadUp is designed to guide first-time managers through the concepts and principles necessary for a successful transition. The assessment, curriculum and individual coaching included in the program has been tailored specifically for new managers in the skilled trades. Cohort 1 will be presented in English. Cohort 2 will be presented in Spanish.
OutPro
OutPro is an LGBTQ+ professional group that promotes a welcoming culture in the West Michigan Business Community for LGBTQ+ professionals and allies. OutPro offers opportunities for both social and professional networking through programming and gatherings at various venues in the community.
Speak with Purpose
Speak with Purpose is designed to equip participants with the skills and confidence necessary to organize and deliver effective presentations. Over the course of five interactive sessions, individuals will learn how to organize a presentation and deliver it to audiences large and small.