Whether they are a new business or experienced, women looking to expand their professional capability and effectiveness will have the opportunity to strengthen their professional development with Parker’s new women’s leadership program. 

The Parker Chamber of Commerce has announced the launch of a new 10-month leadership development program called the Women’s Experience, designed to encourage professional women to thrive and become strong leaders. 

The Women’s Experience will be for a select group of 15 to 20 women who are affiliated with a Parker Chamber member business or organization. 

“We have just seen a large number of women in the chamber and felt that this was a great first step in helping our members achieve a higher success in their careers and businesses,” said Kathy Calton, board member and treasurer of the Parker Chamber of Commerce. 

The group will gather the first Wednesday of every month starting in January 2024 from noon to 3:30 p.m. in Downtown Parker. 

The sessions will include a variety of training topics that are important to the growth and development of women in leadership. 

Topics include resilience in dealing with crisis and conflict, sales and presentation skills, setting professional boundaries, mental health, diversity, equity and inclusion. 

With various speakers at each session, the goal of the program is for it to be interactive so the participants have the chance to learn and grow. 

The concept for the program was designed by the chamber’s summer intern, Sydney Houseman and T.J. Sullivan, the CEO and President of the Parker Chamber, said Calton. 

While participation in the program is free, according to the chamber website, participants are required to commit to the following: 

• Reading a foundational book by the first session.
• Not missing more than one session.
• Raising at least $1,000 to sponsor a woman for the 2025 class.
• Serve as a mentor after completing the program. 
• Engage in each session with respect. 

The deadline to apply for the inaugural class is Friday, Oct. 13. To apply, visit the website at  https://www.parkerchamber.com/we/. 

“Parker Chamber of Commerce is looking for women that need and want professional development and will be able to help move the program forward in the future,” said Calton. 

Acceptance to the program will be decided no later than Nov. 1. 

Calton said she is excited to be part of the initial launch of the program. 

“As a mother of two female young adults, I feel the need and calling to help move more women forward and help offer such great leadership options within our community,” said Calton. 

The Chamber is also looking for businesses interested in sponsoring lunches for the Women’s Experiences sessions. 

For additional questions, contact Kara Massa or T.J. Sullivan at the Chamber Office at 303-841-4268