Three-level, 36-hour program will be available through all campus locations

College of the Rockies’ Continuing Education and Contract Training division is excited to introduce a new Summit Leadership Series. Consisting of three levels or “Peaks,” the series covers the critical skills for success needed for leading teams in today’s organizational landscape.

This innovative series will be instructed by Christina Benty and Pete Bourke.

Benty, owner of Strategic Leadership Systems, is a high-energy speaker, facilitator, published author, and executive coach. She holds a Master’s in Leadership and is a certified Power + Systems Organizational Workshop Trainer. As the former mayor of Golden, her leadership journey forced her to navigate uncertainty and complexity. She now uses her experience to help others develop their own leadership skills.

“I’m passionate about internal and external leadership development, organizational culture, and change management,” she said. “I believe in the importance of cultivating leaders who lead from the inside out and look forward doing so through this exciting series.”

Bourke, who has over 20 years of senior management experience in tourism, hospitality, non-profit, and customer service, is a culture-focused leader with a coach approach mindset. Currently undertaking his Master’s in Business Administration, he holds a graduate Executive Coaching Certificate and is a Professional Certified Coach with the International Coach Federation. Having owned his own business and worked in senior roles with some of the larger employers in the East Kootenay, he has a firsthand appreciation for what it takes to be successful in rural areas.

“My experience has led me to understand the value of enhancing organizations, managers, and leaders with the tools to succeed,” he said. “I also place high importance on building a sense of community and giving back to others.”

“We’re excited to have Christina and Pete leading this series,” said Michelle Taylor, manager of the Invermere campus. “They are both well-respected in their fields, bring a ton of experience, and are engaging presenters. We’re sure participants will leave feeling more confident in their own leadership abilities and in their ability to empower their teams.”

The first “Peak” focuses on helping leaders to understand their own leadership style and to appreciate what type of leadership style is best suited for their team. Peak Two explores organizational culture, project management tools, creating an inclusive environment, and team dynamics. The final “Peak” examines guiding teams through change, leading effective meetings, working through conflict for success, and continuous improvement.

The Summit Leadership Series is available for general enrolment or private sessions can be customized for an organization’s specific needs.

“The public sessions of this series will take place at our college campuses, with all health and safety requirements from the Provincial Health Officer in place,” Taylor added. “The classrooms will be adjusted to allow for physical distancing and masks will be required at all times.”

The Summit Leadership Series is available through any College of the Rockies campus; however, the initial intakes will take place in Fernie, Cranbrook and Invermere.

Fernie’s program commences January 26, Cranbrook’s follows on January 27, and Invermere’s program will start February 23. Participants can choose to enrol in the entire series for $1,295 or can choose individual “Peaks” for $495 each.

Individuals or organizations interested in taking part in the program can contact their local College of the Rockies campus or go to cotr.ca/summit-leadership.

Lead image:  College of the Rockies’ Summit Leadership Series will be led by industry leaders Christina Benty and Pete Bourke. Photos submitted

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