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The First-Line Leadership Certification Program was developed by the Lamar State College-Orange Office of Workforce Development with input and assistance from local business and industry professionals. Of the many shared responses, one that stood out was that for businesses to succeed strong leaders are required at every level.

To help achieve that requisite, a seven-module program was developed to train and prepare current and future leaders to achieve the high level of success sought after by good leaders. So the training will benefit a wide range of individuals, the program is delivered in modules that may be registered for independently or collectively. Each component will provide a wealth of knowledge for all in attendance.

Monday, Feb. 25 begins the series with “Traits of Leaders.” This class will focus on the importance of leadership in achieving long-term organizational success. Topics include qualities of good leaders, roles of leadership and personality types.

Module two, “Communicating Effectively,” will be held Monday and Tuesday March 3-4 and explores the role of good communication and interpersonal relationships. Topics include listening skills, oral and written communication techniques, the importance of documentation and meeting facilitation.

“Leadership Components” is the title of module three which meets Monday March 31. The primary focus of this class will be a discussion of goals, time management and managing changes as a leader.

Monday and Tuesday, April 7-8, “Managing Conflict” will cover identifying causes of organizational conflict and methods to resolve that conflict. Topics include dealing with difficult people, conflict management styles and leading others through conflict.

Module five, “Decision Making and Problem Solving,” is scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, April 21-22 and will explore the process of decision making. Topics include conquering key moments, personal accountability and responsibility and a systematic approach to solving problems.

“Building and Leading a High-Performance Team” is the title of module six which meets Monday, May 5. This course will help develop the infrastructure of a high-performance team through developing a charter, understanding customer requirements, diagramming work flow, setting goals and clarifying roles.

The final module, “Applications of Leadership,” will be held Monday and Tuesday, May 19-20. These last two days focus on leadership and teambuilding. Topics include teamwork and team development. Graduates of the First-Line Leadership Certification Program will make short presentations to share what they have learned throughout the program and how this knowledge will benefit their organizations.

The cost for one-day modules is $149 and $279 for two-day classes. To register for the entire series, the fee is $1,275. All classes will meet in room 125 of the LSC-O Wilson Building from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Fees include lunches, snacks and coffee.

For more information and to register, contact the LSC-O Office of Continuing Education and Workforce Development at 409-882-3321.