The 2006 AIHA Future Leader's Institute was held October 19-22 in Chicago, Illinois. The two and a half day program was focused on four main topics: broadening interpersonal perspectives, broadening organizational perspectives, collaborative/teamwork efforts and managing your future. Participants spent a significant amount of time discussing leadership skills and conducting self-assessment and team-building exercises. Lessons were communicated through group discussions, course materials, activities and panels facilitated by "thought leaders."

The facilitator of the Future Leaders Institute, Jeffrey Cufaude with Idea Architects, presented an incredible program. In his own words, he writes, speaks, and consults on a variety of leadership and organizational development issues for associations and the stakeholders they serve. It is important for businesses to incorporate organizational development in order to create an environment that is successful for all behavioral styles.
The networking opportunities were incredible. There were 48 attendees from almost every state and Canada, representing a wide variety of fields with an interest in industrial hygiene. Employers included government, academia, research, military, insurance, health care, industry and consulting. Each participant had 15 or less years of experience in the occupational and environmental health and safety profession. Only two people were selected to attend from Michigan, Laura Randall and myself, both on the board of directors for MIHS.

Young professionals who are interested in attending next year's Future Leaders Institute can find more information online at http://www.aiha.org/Content/AboutAIHA/FLI.htm. In order to submit a compelling application, consider volunteering for AIHA as a member of a technical committee, serving on a Special Interest Group or running for election to the MIHS board of directors. These activities alone provide valuable networking and career development opportunities.