The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation recently announced that Melissa Martinez, Director of the Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce, was selected to participate in the tenth cohort of its premiere business leadership program. The Business Leads Fellowship Program trains and equips leaders from state and local chambers of commerce, economic development agencies, and trade associations with resources, access to experts, and a network of peers to build their capacity to address the most pressing education and workforce challenges.
“It’s such an honor to have been chosen for this elite program. I feel that my extensive background in education will allow me to be an asset to the cohort,” said Martinez in a news release. “It has been a personal goal of mine to find a way to bridge my passion for education with the needs of our members, and the community. The chamber has also incorporated education and workforce development goals into its strategic plan and by participating in this program it will allow us to make significant progress towards achieving those goals.”
Following a competitive application and selection process, Martinez was chosen alongside 34 other state and local chamber executives, economic development professionals, and association leaders. The eight-month program features both in-person and virtual meetings, covering the entire talent pipeline from early childhood education through workforce development.
“We are thrilled to have Melissa Martinez join the tenth class of the Business Leads Fellowship Program,” said Caitlin Codella Low, vice president at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, in the release. “Her leadership at the Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce demonstrates a commitment to advancing education and workforce development in her community, and we look forward to supporting her efforts through this program.”
According to Olivia Dachel, CESA 12 regional youth apprenticeship coordinator, “Melissa’s dedication to ongoing education initiatives for the community is evident through her inclusive approach, extending opportunities beyond just Washburn Chamber members. I am excited for the new opportunities Melissa’s fellowship will bring to the Bayfield Peninsula.”
Upon completion of the program, Business Leads Fellows like Martinez will join the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s network of over 350 chambers of commerce and statewide associations nationwide. This network regularly collaborates on education and workforce initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth and opportunity.
For more information on the Business Leads Fellowship Program, visit the program’s website at www.uschamberfoundation.org/business-leads-fellowship-program.
Information provided by Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce.
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