Business Details
AgForestry Leadership Program in Spokane
AgForestry is a premier leadership development program dedicated to cultivating the next generation of leaders in agriculture, forestry, and natural resources. Since our inception, we have provided an 18-month immersive experience through 11 in-state, one national, and one international seminar designed to foster collaborative leadership skills. Our program selects 18-24 candidates annually from a diverse pool of professionals across Washington State, representing agriculture, forestry, fishing, and related industries. Participants engage in hands-on learning at colleges, businesses, and field locations, gaining the expertise needed to address complex natural resource challenges. With over two decades of proven impact, our alumni have become influential leaders in government, industry, and community organizations.Our curriculum emphasizes problem-solving, consensus-building, and cross-sector collaboration, preparing graduates to drive meaningful change. We maintain rigorous selection standards to ensure each cohort represents the highest potential for leadership excellence. Our nonpartisan approach enables participants to develop practical skills while maintaining their unique perspectives. The programs enduring legacy is evidenced by its graduates, including a U.S. Forest Service Chief and Washington State Senators. We remain committed to advancing leadership excellence in natural resources through education, mentorship, and real-world application.
Services
Leadership Program
In-State Seminars
National Seminars
International Seminars
Alumni Network
Donor Programs
Scholarships
Highlights and features
- We offer an 18-month intensive leadership program with national and international seminars
- Our graduates include U.S. Forest Service Chief and Washington State Legislators
- We implement a patented selection process for diverse industry representation
- Our program features hands-on learning at colleges, businesses, and natural resource sites
- We provide access to a powerful alumni network of natural resource professionals
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
What people say
Cornerstone of my leadership development
World class in developing leaders
Changed my life
Broader perspective that changed my life
Positive difference where I live
Services
Leadership Program
Our flagship 18-month program develops natural resource leaders through immersive seminars and field experiences. Participants gain collaborative problem-solving skills while maintaining their industry expertise. Graduates drive policy changes and operational improvements across agriculture, forestry, and environmental sectors.
In-State Seminars
Intensive Washington State seminars cover regional agricultural and forestry challenges with hands-on field experiences. Participants learn from industry experts and policymakers while building cross-sector networks. These sessions form the program's foundational curriculum.
National Seminars
One national seminar annually expands participants' perspectives through cross-country learning experiences. This includes Washington D.C. policy discussions and industry visits that connect Washington State's challenges with broader agricultural contexts.
International Seminars
International trips to countries like Vietnam provide global agricultural perspectives. Participants compare domestic practices with international approaches while building cross-cultural collaboration skills applicable to their work.
Alumni Network
Access to 45 graduating classes forming a powerful network of natural resource leaders. Members maintain connections across industries and political affiliations for collaborative problem-solving and professional development opportunities.
People
Carolyn Kadyk
Executive Director
Carolyn leads AgForestry's strategic direction with deep expertise in agricultural leadership development. She connects program curriculum to industry needs while maintaining the organization's long-term vision.
Julie Grenfell
Network Engagement Director
Julie builds relationships across agricultural and forestry sectors to strengthen program impact. Her work connects participants with industry leaders and expands the organization's professional network.
Kyle Brooksher
Curriculum Director
Kyle designs the program's immersive learning experiences with input from industry experts. He ensures seminars address current natural resource challenges while developing practical leadership skills.
Holly Henning
WSU Curriculum Advisor
Holly provides academic oversight for program content in collaboration with Washington State University. Her expertise ensures agricultural curriculum remains relevant and educationally rigorous.
Questions
What is the AgForestry Leadership Program?
An 18-month program developing collaborative leaders in agriculture, forestry, and natural resources through intensive seminars and field experiences.
Who should apply for the program?
Professionals from agriculture, forestry, fishing industries seeking leadership development regardless of political affiliation or career stage.
How are participants selected?
Competitive application process evaluating professional experience, diversity of perspectives, and leadership potential for each 18-24 person cohort.
What locations do seminars cover?
11 Washington State locations, one national trip, and one international visit spanning from local farms to Capitol Hill.
What post-graduation support exists?
Lifelong access to a professional network of 45 graduating classes and ongoing leadership development opportunities.
