SPOKANE, Wash. (News release) -- Strong leadership fuels organizational success. Recognizing the importance of cultivating leadership talent from within, PotlatchDeltic launched the Emerging Leaders Academy in 2024. Designed in collaboration with the University of Arkansas, this six-month intensive program equips high-potential employees with the confidence, skills, and network they need to thrive in future leadership roles.

The academy's structure emphasized both learning and application. Over six months, participants engaged in interactive virtual sessions, each focused on a critical leadership skill, such as navigating change, fostering emotional intelligence, delegating effectively and leading resilient teams. Each session challenged participants to apply concepts in real time through role play scenarios, then reflect on their experiences in small-group discussions.

To cap off the program, participants gathered for an immersive in-person session at the University of Arkansas, where they had an opportunity to interact directly with PotlatchDeltic's executive team, including CEO Eric Cremers, who shared insights on resilience and decision-making, highlighting the challenges leaders face. The experience wasn't just about learning general leadership principles, it was about preparing managers to lead with confidence in real-world scenarios impacting our business.

PotlatchDeltic selected 15 high-performing managers from each division of our business. These individuals, each managing at least one direct report, represented different locations and business units. Bringing together leaders from different backgrounds not only enriched discussions but also accelerated real-world application.

The impact of the Emerging Leaders Academy was immediate: one participant, who was promoted shortly after completing the program, was equipped with the skills, confidence, and network to succeed in his new role. Many attendees reported immediate application of skills, particularly in handling difficult conversations and navigating change. In addition to leadership skills, participants had a chance to build connections with other leaders in our company, exchange ideas and form lasting professional relationships. With these new connections and skills in place, the momentum for leadership growth continues to build.

Based on the program's strong reception, PotlatchDeltic is set to launch a second cohort of the Emerging Leaders Academy in 2025, keeping the small-group format to promote deep engagement. By investing in structured, high-impact training like this, PotlatchDeltic is preparing individuals for leadership roles, which we believe is a fundamental part of building a stronger, more resilient company for the future.