Emerging Leaders Program

The Soil and Water Conservation Society Emerging Leaders Program is an immersive, interdisciplinary leadership experience designed to nurture the next generation of conservation leaders. This initiative blends learning modules, mentorship, and hands-on projects to foster resilient professionals. Through experiential learning and skill development, participants will gain the expertise, networks, and passion needed to drive positive change in their communities. 

About the Emerging Leaders Program2026 Flyer

Applications have closed for the 2026 cohort.

Program Description

Participants will attend interactive learning modules to receive training and resources from SWCS staff and partners. They will fine-tune and expand their skills and networks to further advance conservation and their career.

Through the year, participants will gain professional skills like time management, event planning, public speaking, and creating community. They will network with and receive guidance from peers, program alumni, and other leaders across disciplines to develop their leadership style and build confidence in their roles.

A full outline of the program is included in the program overview.

Program Benefits

• One year of complimentary SWCS membership and access to all membership benefits, including:
  • Subscriptions to the Journal of Soil and Water Conservation and Society & Natural Resources
  • Access to a network of mentors and a local chapter
  • SWCS tools like our membership directory, webinars, and more!
  • Discounts on SWCS publications, journal page charges and APCs, swag, and SWCS Career Center job postings
  • SWCS monthly member newsletter, the Conservogram
• Invitation to and recognition at the 81st SWCS International Annual Conference
  • Exclusive sessions and networking opportunities for program participants
• Conservation Events Planning Certificate (for those who host conservation activities)
  • Access to an event planning toolkit
• Recognition through SWCS media platforms
  • Opportunity to share your events and activities through the SWCS Events Calendar
• Promotion through news releases, social media posts, and more!

Who?

The program is for professionals in the first 5 years of their career in the conservation field, post-graduation. Participants are new to their roles in a wide variety of disciplines and sectors, including:

• Federal Government
• Conservation Districts
• Nonprofit/Foundations
• State Government
• University/Extension
• Industry/Private Sector
• … and more! 

Where?

This program is hosted primarily online and can be completed from anywhere. There are opportunities for participants to host a local, in-person conservation event or activity, and there may be additional in-person opportunities in your area. If multiple participants are located in the same area, they may team up to host an activity. Invite your colleagues to apply!

When?

The program kicks off in September and runs through August 2026. Participants commit to approximately 14 hours of professional development webinars spread out through the year. Additional time may be required to plan your event or activity.

"The biggest value I got out of this program was the huge increase in my confidence when it comes to pulling together friends, family, and colleagues to take care of the environment. The capacity building aspect of this program has been invaluable to me, as now I know that I can pull together and direct various groups of people who want to make a positive difference. Bringing more people together means that I can implement greater change!"

James Boatright, 2024 ELP Participant

There is no cost for participants to take part in the Emerging Leaders Program. At this time, travel and lodging at the 81st SWCS International Annual Conference would be the financial responsibility of the participant or their employer. However, this portion of the schedule is optional and not necessary to complete the program.

Do you know someone who could benefit from participating in the program? Help us spread the word with these outreach tips.

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