03.07.25
Leadership FMWF Experience: A Day in the Program
By Allison Fulton, Leadership FMWF Class of 2025
Leadership Class of 2025 tours Cardinal IG for their February Leadership session.
The Leadership FMWF experience gives professionals a unique opportunity to engage with the people and industries shaping our region. Each month, participants step away from their daily routines to take part in hands-on learning, industry tours and leadership development. From behind-the-scenes business visits to thought-provoking discussions, every session is designed to challenge perspectives, build connections and inspire growth. Leadership FMWF Class of 2025 participant Allison Fulton shares her Leadership FMWF experience in this recap of a recent session.Â
A day in the life: Allison’s Leadership FMWF experience
My alarm clock goes off, but today the snooze button is getting a break, because it’s time for a Leadership FMWF experience, and I can’t wait to get started! One day a month, I set aside my typical routine and go on an adventure in our community. Our theme this month was Creating Curiosity, which felt fitting since every leadership day starts with anticipation about what new experiences and insights await.Â
Cardinal IG: A Hidden Gem in our Community
Leaving my house, the bitter cold and wind made me briefly question why I live here, but stepping into our first stop at Cardinal IG reminded me exactly why. The company’s history, values and collaborative team were inspiring. I never imagined the intricate process of glassmaking, but walking through their facility opened my eyes to the innovation and teamwork driving success. It made me realize how many hidden gems exist right here in our community—inside buildings I pass by daily. Leadership FMWF plays a crucial role in exposing participants to these gems, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the organizations and industries that shape our region.
The Power of Curiosity: Learning from Laetitia Hellerud
The next stop was Blue Cross Blue Shield, where we met Laetitia Hellerud, who shared her powerful journey of overcoming obstacles to become a community leader. Her story reinforced the importance of curiosity—how listening to and learning from those with different perspectives strengthens both individuals and communities. Leadership FMWF provides opportunities to learn from inspiring leaders like Laetitia, helping participants grow both professionally and personally through exposure to diverse experiences.Â
Learning and Growing Through Skill Building
We also heard from Stacey Nathan, who introduced us to Crucial Conversations. She taught us how feeling stuck or frustrated often signals the need to lean into curiosity and engage in tough conversations. Stacey shared a framework for navigating these moments, and we had the chance to practice these skills with our classmates. Leadership FMWF cultivates these essential skills, fostering an environment where participants can learn, connect and grow alongside others who share a commitment to continuous improvement.
Learning Through Connections and Shared Experiences
What I love most about this program is the people involved and the experiences that are unlike anything else. Our group of 40 classmates come from diverse industries and backgrounds, making it fascinating to learn how their organizations operate, what their roles entail and why they are invested in our community. What started as a room full of strangers has quickly turned into a network of friends who support and challenge each other.
Inspired and Grateful
My Leadership FMWF experience continues to shape my perspective, pushing me to grow both professionally and personally. Each session leaves me feeling inspired and grateful for the opportunity to engage with incredible leaders, gain new insights and deepen my connection to the community. As I wrap up another impactful day, I’m already counting down the days until we meet again.
Are you ready to grow as a leader and make an impact in our community?
Applications for the next Leadership FMWF close March 12! Take the next step in your leadership journey—apply today and experience firsthand what makes this program so transformative.