Employers look to Leadership Skagit for team development

Since 2004, Leadership Skagit has been the cornerstone for professional growth in Skagit County. Over the past two decades, local employers haven’t just witnessed the program’s value – they’ve experienced it. Many business leaders begin as participants themselves, going on to sponsor their employees year after year.

This enduring investment stems from the tangible benefits graduates bring back to the office. Key advantages for employers include:
•    Immediate Skill Application: Participants gain transferable skills in communication, active listening, and team building that provide value from day one.
•    Practical Project Management: Over a nine-month period, participants hone their ability to manage complex tasks while delivering a project that directly benefits the community.
•    Sharpened Decision-Making: The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, empowering employees to become more confident and effective organizational leaders.
•    Enhanced Collaboration: By learning to examine issues through multiple lenses, graduates are better equipped to bridge gaps across all levels of an organization.

Curriculum built for impact

A major factor in the program's success is its adaptability. Dr. Laura Flores Cailloux of Skagit Valley College has served as the curriculum manager since the program’s inception, ensuring the content evolves to meet the shifting needs of the community.

Leadership Skagit is a program of EDASC in partnership with Skagit Valley College.

When making the business case for the program, Cailloux emphasizes the skills developed through the program can be applied in any kind of professional setting. What’s more, participants gain access to leaders who have gone before them.

“If an organization expects its employees to engage in the community, they will immediately tap into a broad network,” she notes, referencing the 600-plus Leadership Skagit graduates, many of whom remain active in the community as well as volunteer with the program.

Firsthand Success: A graduate’s perspective

The impact of this network is echoed by Rick Schoentrup, executive director of the Volunteers of America Western Washington Dispute Resolution Center. A graduate of the Class of 2025, Schoentrup credits the program with a significant shift in his professional approach.

“My experience significantly enhanced my leadership skills, including decision-making and effective communication, while deepening my awareness of community needs,” Schoentrup said. “It provided valuable networking opportunities with diverse leaders and challenged me to step outside my comfort zone.”
His experience was so transformative that he now champions the program within his own team. 

“I believe it is essential for others in our organization to participate in Leadership Skagit as well, as it cultivates shared leadership development, strengthens our ties to the community, fosters a culture of community leadership, and encourages collaboration and innovation.” 

Apply now for 2026-27 

Ready to invest in your team’s leadership development? Applications for the next Leadership Skagit cohort are open through April 30. Classes start in the fall.

People interested in learning more about the program before applying can schedule a “coffee and chat” session with EDASC’s Gina Eakin and are also invited to attend the Leadership Skagit information session March 10 at 4:30 p.m. at Coconut Kenny’s in Burlington.