February 3: Emotional Intelligence: Self-Awareness and Self-Regulation

February 10: Emotional Intelligence: Empathy

February 17: Communicating with Emotional Intelligence: Approaching Difficult Conversations

February 24: Communicating with Emotional Intelligence: Managing Conversations When Things Get Tough

Wednesdays in April

Speakers TBD

Wednesdays in June

Speakers TBD

Read to Lead:

Tools and Weapons by Brad Smith, President of Microsoft

When AgForestry made the decision to put our traditional program on hold, we instituted several programs to keep class members engaged with each other and continue their leadership development. One program that is seeing positive results is mentorship. A few months after pairing class members with alumni, we checked in with participants to get their thoughts.

I have not participated in an AgForestry class, however my deep passion to further agriculture and agribusiness in our state and worldwide is accretive to my AgForestry board position. I was born and raised in the Yakima Valley, participating in 4-H and FFA during my early years, working in the fields and warehouses, and now serving as a Principal Relationship Manager within Wells Fargo Bank’s Ag Industry Specialty Group. 

 

My professional focus is to a) serve as a trusted advisor to customers and prospects looking for viable and appropriate financial services to meet their business goals, and b) develop colleagues who have advanced and will advance into leadership positions within and outside of our organization. 

I have a strong background in planning, organizing and leading fundraising activities for several local nonprofit agencies including Rotary, The Virginia Mason Memorial Foundation, Junior Achievement, United Way, and Yakima Schools Foundation.

 

After being involved with AgForestry for almost two years, I have witnessed how the program cultivates and develops leaders in the agriculture and forestry industries. In our current environment, this is so important as we need future leaders ready to step into positions being vacated by the aging population in these industries. It has also helped me to grow my personal and professional network.

 

I would strongly encourage anyone interested in pursuing careers in these industries to apply for AgForestry as it will give them the tools needed to be effective leaders in their companies and communities.

We want to hear about you! Tell us what you've been up to since your AgForestry experience. Email us at leaders@agforestry.org

The Washington Small Business Development Center is hosting two virtual events for brewers, distillers, winemakers and cider makers who are interested in exporting their products to Mexico. These events are February 25 and March 4. See our website for event flyers and registration.