MADISON, WIS. – The Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) announced details for its upcoming leadership series, which it created for dairy processing companies with a focus on extending professional networks and practical project work.

The first of three live, online sessions is set for Sept. 18, and WCMA said experienced dairy industry professionals will feature heavily in each meeting, to impart knowledge through accounts of their leadership successes and challenges.

“As dairy businesses navigate ongoing labor challenges, investing in managers and supervisors who inspire others to achieve their best is key to retaining a quality team,” said Rebekah Sweeney, WCMA’s senior director of programs and policy. “Our top-rated Advanced Leadership Series is tailored to the challenges and opportunities unique to dairy processing and is designed to foster valuable professional connections.”

WCMA outlined that each of the sessions will tackle a different leadership topic, kicking off with the exploration of driving change and generating positive results. The association said Associated Milk Producers Inc. vice president of marketing Sarah Schmidt will be the first featured speaker.

The second installment of the series, on Nov. 20, will cover developing and applying creative and collaborative problem-solving processes, with a presentation from guest Jim Natzke, whose career experience includes leadership roles at Emmi Roth and Carr Valley Cheese.

The series will conclude Jan. 15, 2025, with Agropur’s vice president of US manufacturing, Mike Sipple. The session will focus on leadership tools for resolving workplace conflict and fostering community.

WCMA noted that enrollment for the series is limited to 22 spots, and shared that sponsorships are available for companies and cooperatives.

Complete details, registration and sponsorship information are available online at the WCMA website.