Applications are now being accepted for Class 42 of the California Agricultural Leadership Program (CALP). Growers, farmers, ranchers and individuals working in allied businesses and organizations are encouraged to apply.

CALP is operated by the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF). For more than 40 years, CALP has provided an advanced leadership development experience for emerging agricultural leaders. During an intensive 20-month program, fellows are immersed in topics including leadership theory, strategic thinking, strategic agility, effective communication, personality traits, theories of motivation, critical thinking skills, complex social and cultural issues, and change management. Fellows are exposed to dynamic classroom presentations, experiential learning opportunities and selected readings. CALF invests approximately $45,000 per fellow to participate in the program. The cost of the program is underwritten by individual and industry donations.
Seminars are delivered by four partner universities – Cal Poly, Pomona; Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo; CSU Fresno; and UC Davis. Additional segments are provided by Santa Clara University and National Defense University’s Industrial College in Washington, D.C. Fellows participate in a 10-day national travel/learning seminar and a 15-day international travel/learning seminar.

“There is a tremendous need for individuals who can provide strong and effective leadership for their businesses in our dynamic and complex agriculture industry, as well as our communities, our state and our nation,” said CALF President and CEO Bob Gray. “Ag Leadership fellows acquire the tools to enhance their leadership skills and contribute to their – and their organizations’ – long-term success.”

Since it was first delivered in 1970, more than 1,100 men and women have participated in the Ag Leadership Program and have become influential leaders and active volunteers in the agriculture industry, government, communities, business and education.

Candidates interested in applying can download the application and required forms at www.agleaders.org. The deadline for applications is May 16. A new, three-phase application process has been implemented this year. The first phase is brief written application to determine a candidate’s eligibility for the program. The second phase requires a more detailed written application from a candidate. The final phase is a face-to-face interview with a screening committee.