Leadership development is an investment in the future. That’s why Dean Transportation launched its Leadership Development Program in 2024, creating opportunities for team members across the state to strengthen their skills, expand their perspectives and prepare for the next step in their professional journeys.
“The primary focus of the program is to teach participants the self-leadership skills required to be successful in a team environment and help prepare them to lead others down the road,” said John Zaworski, Strategic Initiatives Manager.
Since its inception, 49 team members have graduated from the program, and a new cohort will be starting this fall. Over the course of a school year, participants gather at Dean’s Training Center in Lansing for several training sessions focused on enhancing personal effectiveness, developing interpersonal communication skills, fostering team collaboration, and promoting wellness and self-care. Participants also hear from current leaders through panel discussions and learn alongside colleagues from different departments and locations.
A recent graduate shared that she would highly recommend the program to colleagues. “I quickly learned what type of role I naturally take on in a work environment, and the lessons are equally applicable to leadership roles in my personal life.”
Zaworski added, “One of the greatest outcomes of this program is watching colleagues from across the state come together, learn from one another and build lasting connections.”
The program culminates each spring with a graduation ceremony recognizing participants’ commitment to professional growth and leadership development.
By investing in leadership development, Dean helps team members build the skills and confidence needed to lead teams, strengthen workplace relationships and support successful operations. The program reflects Dean’s ongoing commitment to employee growth and to developing the next generation of leaders across the organization.
