Strong managers are essential to strong organizations. They shape culture, drive performance and play a critical role in retaining and developing talent. Applications are now open for the 2026 Managers Institute, a leadership development experience designed to strengthen managers at a pivotal point in their careers.
Launching its second year after a successful inaugural session in 2025, the Managers Institute equips emerging and experienced managers with the practical skills and self-awareness needed to lead teams more effectively. Applications are now open, with the 2026 program running March 17 through May 12.
Building Better Managers, Strengthening Organizations
The Managers Institute focuses on the real-world challenges managers face every day, from leading different personalities to building trust, navigating change and reinforcing organizational culture. Led by Mike Mosel, founder and CEO of Pelarity, the program blends behavioral science with practical leadership application to help managers better understand themselves and how they lead others.
Participants engage in a mix of in-person and virtual sessions and use the PI Behavioral Assessment to gain insight into work styles, communication preferences and leadership tendencies. The result is a deeper understanding of how individual behavior impacts team performance and organizational outcomes.
“The impact we saw from last year’s participants was significant,” says Therese Gordon, Associate Vice President of the Leadership Center. “The 2025 class left with greater confidence, stronger communication skills and a clearer understanding of how their leadership shows up within their teams. We heard repeatedly that the sessions were immediately applicable and highly impactful.”
Designed for Today’s Leadership Challenges
The curriculum is structured around five core modules:
- Self-Awareness
- Managing Others
- Team Dynamics
- Fundamentals of Organizational Culture
- Leadership Framework, understanding three key leadership styles
Managers receive direct feedback on their leadership challenges and leave with practical strategies they can apply right away. One participant from last year’s class described the experience simply as an “amazing program,” while another shared appreciation for being part of the inaugural cohort and the growth that came with it.
A Smart Investment in Your Leadership Pipeline
For organizations, the Managers Institute offers a meaningful opportunity to invest in rising leaders and strengthen succession planning. For individual managers, it provides the tools and perspective needed to lead with greater effectiveness and impact.
Whether you are a manager ready to grow or an organization looking to develop your team, the Managers Institute delivers a focused, results-driven approach to leadership development.
Applications are now open, with a deadline of March 6, 2026. Learn more and apply by visiting the Managers Institute page on the Chamber’s website.
