Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce

Mesa County Leadership Program

Three decades of building the business leaders who shape the future of Mesa County — one class at a time.

Applications for the 2026-2027 Leadership Program are Now Open!

About the Program

What Is the Mesa County Leadership Program?

In 1992, the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce gathered twenty-five up-and-coming leaders to become the first-ever Mesa County Leadership Class. Tasked with learning about what made our community operate and how they could become civically engaged, this class carved the path to three decades of dedicated business leaders.

Since then, an annual average of 20 next-generation business leaders have dedicated one day a month to learning what it means to lead in our business community — amounting to over 600 dedicated individuals who have actively taken steps to support our community.

Known for its interactive and on-site sessions, this program “pulls back the curtain” and gives future leaders an up-close look at what keeps our community thriving and the economy growing.

“The Grand Junction Area Chamber’s Mesa County Leadership class was extremely beneficial to the knowledge of my community. As an individual that has lived here my entire life, I was pleasantly surprised with how much I learned about Mesa County and the pillars of our community through the leadership course.”
— Andrea Lopez, Director of External Affairs, Ute Water Conservancy District

30+

Years of Leadership Development

600+

Graduates

~20

Leaders Per Class

Month Program

“Business leaders are more effective when they step outside their daily work environment and immerse themselves in a different perspective.”
— Dan Prinster, Long-Time Steering Committee Member

Mesa County Leadership Program class

What to Expect

Program Schedule

Each session is designed to immerse participants in a different aspect of Mesa County — from water rights to healthcare, education to government. Here’s what your 10-month journey looks like.

Exploring Your Leadership Style

2-Day Retreat

Kick off the program with a 2-day retreat focused on exploring your core motives as a leader. Learn to navigate team dynamics, expand communication skills, and connect with your fellow classmates through team building and self-aware conversations.

Water in the West

Water is the most valuable natural resource to the Western Slope. Hear from experts on the Colorado River Compact, conservation efforts, and innovative technologies — and visit the historic Roller Dam and Ute Water Treatment Plant firsthand.

Education Is the Seed of Our Future Workforce

Start with CMU President John Marshall for a personal campus tour, then travel to Mesa County Valley School District 51 to hear from the Superintendent, School Board Members, and faculty on the role of K-12 education in our community.

Economic Development Is a Community Effort

Spend the day at the Business Incubator Center learning how local Economic Development Partners work together to inspire healthy growth. Includes a private tour of an area manufacturer contributing to our Valley’s economy.

Healthcare Delivery Systems Across the Valley

Spend the day with local hospital CEOs as they welcome you behind closed doors to explore the diverse services Mesa County offers. Visit service providers, clinics, and facilities to understand the balance required to keep healthcare thriving.

Legislative Days at the Capitol

Annual Trip to Denver

Join fellow business leaders to engage with General Assembly members, department directors, and the Governor. Ensure the Western Slope has a seat at the table as new legislation takes shape.

The Business and Impact of Non-Profits

Get a snapshot of the important non-profit network that works every day to fill needs not met through government or for-profit business. Discover your passion and pathway for giving back to keep Mesa County strong.

The Relationships of Our Local Government

Spend the day with elected officials and staff from the City of Grand Junction and Mesa County, exploring the departments and initiatives ensuring a community that is innovative, welcoming, and thriving.

The Future of Your Leadership Growth

As the class concludes, review what you learned at the retreat and explore how you’ve applied it over 10 months — and how you’ll continue to grow those skills. Learn to maximize the core motives that drive you.

Program Details

Be Intentional. Be a Leader.

Applications open in late April each year. Orientation for accepted participants will be scheduled in mid to late August, with the Retreat no later than mid-September.

Monthly classes begin in October and are held on the second Thursday of each month from 7:30am to 4pm. A strict attendance policy will be enforced to ensure all participants are engaged and active throughout the class.

Leadership Program participants