Adult Programs

Leadership Central Penn

2026/27 Application Closed

Established in 1992, Leadership Central Penn (LCP) is the flagship program of the Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce, offering a ten-month leadership development experience that equips participants with the tools, connections, and insights needed to drive positive change in their workplaces and communities.

The Leadership Central Penn program runs from August through May, beginning with an orientation. Program days feature important topics in Philanthropy, Manufacturing, Education, Agriculture, Civics, Economic Development, Healthcare, & Tourism.

Participants also work in teams throughout the program to develop Community Non-Profit Projects, addressing real-world regional challenges. The program concludes with a formal Graduation Ceremony in May, where projects are presented, and participants are recognized for their accomplishments.

Educator in the Workplace

Click Here To Apply As An Educator

Click Here To Apply As An Employer

The Foundation of Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the continuation of its Educator in the Workplace (EIW) program, an innovative initiative designed to bridge the gap between local classrooms and regional employers across Columbia and Montour Counties.

The Educator in the Workplace program provides K–12 educators, counselors, and administrators with direct exposure to local industries through immersive site visits and hands-on workplace experiences. By engaging directly with employers in the 5 pillars identified by Pennsylvania's Economic Development Strategy. These pillars include careers in Agriculture, Energy, Life Sciences, Manufacturing, Robotics & Technology. Participants gain valuable insights into current workforce needs, in-demand skills, and emerging career pathways.

Through structured visits, educators have the opportunity to:

Tour local businesses and production facilities
Engage in conversations with industry leaders and employees
Learn about technical skills, certifications, and career advancement pathways
Explore internship, mentorship, and workforce pipeline opportunities for students

The program aligns with the Chamber’s broader mission of strengthening the regional economy by connecting education and industry. By fostering relationships between schools and employers, the initiative helps ensure that students are better prepared to enter the workforce with relevant skills and a clear understanding of local career opportunities.

Local employers benefit as well. Participation in EIW allows businesses to showcase their operations, highlight workforce needs, and contribute to shaping a future talent pipeline. The collaboration reinforces a shared commitment to workforce development and long-term regional growth.

Management and Leadership

The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg and The Chamber Foundation, offers a Management and Leadership Certificate Program designed to build essential leadership skills for today’s workplace. This five-session program is ideal for new or emerging leaders and current managers or supervisors seeking foundational leadership training. Participants gain hands-on experience with practical management tools and strategies, tailored to meet the needs of professionals across all industries and business sizes. The program is eligible for WEDnet PA funding and open to employers of all types and sizes.

Each session focuses on key leadership topics, including:

The Role of the Supervisor and Effective Communication/Listening
Understanding Employee Motivation and Managing Change
Coaching, Feedback, and Performance Management
Navigating a Multigenerational and Diverse Workforce
Resolving Conflict and Reaching Agreement

See the full program details here: Program Overview & Learning Objectives by Session

The program is delivered in person, with cohorts limited to 15-20 participants for a more personalized experience. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate from Commonwealth University along with individualized development goals to share with their employers. Funding assistance may also be available.

Next course: Fall 2026

Session Dates:

September 8
September 22
October 6
October 20
November 3

Time: 10:00 AM to 2 PM

Program Fee: $645 - Chamber members; $795 non-Chamber members

Location: The Hub at Mulberry Mill (160 W. 6th Street, Bloomsburg, PA)

Application 2026

Application Deadline: Friday, August 28, 2026

For more information and to apply, contact Jennifer Williams at 570-389-4004 or jwilliam@commonwealthu.edu

K | 12 Educators Summit

Registration will open SUMMER 2027

The K-12 Educators Summit is all about connecting educators with local industry leaders to tackle workforce challenges together. This annual event, a cornerstone of the Foundation’s efforts to close the gap between education and industry needs, dives into key topics like job market trends, the skills students need for future careers, and how schools can better prepare kids for the real world. It's a space for open conversation, brainstorming, and creating practical solutions that can be applied in classrooms.

The summit highlights the importance of bridging the gap between education and the workplace. By bringing everyone to the table—teachers, business leaders, and workforce experts—it ensures that students are not only learning but also preparing for success in a competitive and ever-changing world. The ultimate goal? Helping schools and industries team up to empower the next generation of workers right here in our region.