Photo By James Finn | Kelly Thomas (left, orange shirt), Deputy Operations Manager for the Mississippi River...... read more read more
For employees of the Rock Island District, stepping into future leadership roles may be easier than you think. The Emerging Leader Program (ELP), offered through the Mississippi Valley Division (MVD), is a transformative two-year journey that develops leadership skills, broadens regional perspectives and builds connections across the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Participants engage in professional training, mentorship, developmental assignments and shadowing experiences with senior leaders. The program is designed to challenge individuals while giving them practical tools and insights to grow as leaders.
“I am currently just past halfway through year one of the two-year program, and my experience has been very positive,” said Kelly Thomas, Deputy Operations Manager for the Mississippi River Project and ELP participant. “In my opinion, the access to senior leadership within the Rock Island District as well as MVD is probably the biggest benefit of the EL Program.”
That access comes in many forms, from attending high-level stakeholder meetings to participating in special events and congressional engagements. One standout experience for Thomas was traveling to Washington, D.C., for a training.
“The highlight of the program so far has been attending the Government Affairs Institute training in Washington, D.C., which focuses on how the legislative process works and how USACE is integrated within that process,” said Thomas.
A key component of the program is one-on-one mentorship. Each Emerging Leader is paired with a senior mentor outside of their district to help guide their development.
“My mentor is Karl Jansen, Deputy for Programs and Project Management in the St. Paul District,” Thomas shared. “The interaction we’ve had has been very beneficial and supportive. Karl has been very open about his experiences—both successes and failures. Learning from his roadmap has been invaluable and gives me lessons I’ll reflect on when I must make the tough calls.”
Despite its many benefits, the program also comes with challenges.
“The mission never stops,” Thomas noted. “Navigating the time commitment and requirements for the EL program alongside daily responsibilities can be tough.”
Thomas added that current travel restrictions have also been challenging.
“Virtual meetings have limited face-to-face interaction with senior leaders, which is one of the program’s biggest strengths,” he said.
Still, Thomas and other ELP participants have found tremendous value in connecting with other districts and gaining a broader view of MVD operations.
“The Emerging Leaders Program helps participants learn how to manage time, have structured discussions with leadership, and form lasting relationships,” said Emerging Leader Micki Meier, who is a Project Manager at the Rock Island District. “Any participant is sure to gain valuable experience and form relationships that can be leaned upon throughout their career - it’s a fantastic opportunity!”
The application window for inclusion into this year’s Emerging Leader Program recently closed, but a new window will open again in May 2026. New participants will be announced soon and will be officially inducted at the annual regional governance meeting in late October, where program graduates are also recognized.
To be considered for the program, applicants must have a minimum of three years of service and be a full-time employee at the level of GS-11 through GS-13, WG-9 and above, and Officers, O-4 and below. Qualified employees should work with their supervisors to complete the application process and nomination packages are approved by the supervisory chain. Each district’s ELP Selection Board selects and nominates two ELs annually.
For those ready to step out of their comfort zone, connect with mentors and lead with purpose, the Emerging Leaders Program offers an impactful path forward!
| Date Taken: | 07.16.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 07.17.2025 07:01 |
| Story ID: | 542942 |
| Location: | ROCK ISLAND, IOWA, US |
| Web Views: | 39 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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