LEAP Group Shot

Insights

Developing Leaders Through Our Leadership Evolution and Advancement Program (LEAP)

At Gresham Smith, we believe in growing leaders from within our firm, that leadership is a learned skill, and that the best leaders are both strategic and empathetic. That’s why we’ve partnered with the Center for Creative Leadership to design the Leadership Evolution and Advancement Program—a best-in-class curriculum known as LEAP.

LEAP left me with the confidence to expand my career in ways I hadn’t thought possible. Erin Masterson, PLA, ASLA Senior Landscape Architect, Land Planning

LEAP is designed to equip leaders with skillsets and knowledge to enhance effectiveness in their current roles while positioning them to grow into more advanced leadership positions in the future. The year-long program brings together leaders from across Gresham Smith, which provides the opportunity to forge meaningful connections beyond everyday business interactions. Cohort members engage in immersive in-person summits, as well as collaborative small group activities and targeted learning sessions, that deepen their understanding of the firm’s core operations and culture.

The LEAP experience has been an absolute game changer for me as I’ve stepped into a national leadership role. Louis Johnson, PLA, ASLA Executive Vice President, Land Planning

Quarterly in-person summits are held in different Gresham Smith offices across the United States, and are hosted by a member of Gresham Smith’s “C-suite” Management Team. Between summits, intersessions—focused on specific aspects of the firm’s operations—serve to further illuminate the company’s strategic vision and commitment to operational excellence.

LEAP was an immersive leadership experience that provided exponential growth that will benefit me throughout my career. Alex Jackson, PMP Project Executive / Principal, Industrial
The LEAP program delivered a well-rounded combination of educational and personal development experiences that strengthened critical leadership capabilities and fostered a foundation of trust among a remarkable cohort of colleagues. Adam Nicholson, AIA Market Design Leader, Life and Work Places

Through small group collaborations, including a transformative action learning project, participants are empowered to apply innovative thinking to real-world challenges critical to Gresham Smith’s growth. Teams present their solutions directly to the firm’s leadership team, and their ideas are evaluated for potential implementation. This ensures an impactful learning journey where leadership development is practical, purpose-driven and integral to shaping the future of the firm.

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LEAP is an intense, year-long journey that builds exceptional leadership skills, fosters life-changing bonds, and reveals the passion and dedication driving Gresham Smith’s commitment to excellence and culture. Cody Crews, P.E. Middle Tennessee Roadway Department Leader, Transportation

Along with other development programs, such as our Blueprint for Supervisory Excellence, Gresham Smith is ensuring that leadership development is practical and purpose driven, and that leaders at all levels of their careers have opportunities for personal growth, professional development and successful, rewarding careers.

LEAP opened doors to valuable relationships and equipped me with essential leadership skills that have significantly contributed to my growth and strengthened my ability to lead and support my team’s success. Jamie L. Lewis Accounting Operations Manager