Feb.11: The National Corn Growers Association invites farmers to become a part of the change they desire by actively honing their leadership skills through the Leadership At Its Best Program, sponsored by Syngenta. Applications for this best in the industry leadership training program are due to NCGA by March 29. Interested members are urged to contact their state associations today and be nominated to participate in the program.

“Since the first class in 1986, Leadership At Its Best has helped train strong, confident volunteers who have helped shape the industry through their subsequent work at the state and national level,” said NCGA President Pam Johnson. “This year, we again ask that farmers come forward and act upon their desire to give back to their peers. NCGA depends upon grassroots leadership, and I personally can attest that the time and effort dedicated are repaid in full through the incredible relationships built with like-minded individuals.”

Open to all NCGA members, Leadership At Its Best provides training to interested volunteers of all skill levels. The first session addresses personal communications skills, public speaking, media training and association management. The second session addresses public policy issues, working with the Hill and parliamentary procedure. Through this program, participants build the skill set needed to become confident leaders of their associations and eloquent advocates on behalf of their crop and communities.

Since 1986, the National Corn Growers Association, the state corn associations and, most importantly, the U.S. corn industry, have benefited tremendously from the Syngenta sponsored Leadership At Its Best Program. More than 550 growers have gained invaluable media relations, communications, association management and public policy knowledge and skills over the lifetime of the program.

Leadership At Its Best continues to be a vital leadership incubator for honing the skills of state leaders on “the way up” and stimulating further involvement in and greater commitment from state growers to NCGA.