NextGen Leadership Coalition

The SCIA NextGen Leadership Coalition (NGL) is an initiative designed to foster the development of future economic leaders for both the organization and the wider region. Comprised of the next generation of business and community leaders in the Bayou region, the NGL is dedicated to advancing key issues and projects that align with the broader SCIA strategic plan and support initiatives approved by the Board of Directors.

Time Commitment

• NextGen Council meetings are generally scheduled quarterly

• Additional time commitments may be required from participation on committees, or ad hoc

involvement on specific projects or issues

• Minimum in-person attendance is 50% of the regularly scheduled meetings per year

Financial Commitment

• There is a $500 Investment requirement of NextGen Leadership Members or free for 1 employee per corporate member

General

• Age between 30-45

• Demonstrated service as a valued and emerging regional leader

• Demonstrated a high level of civic and community engagement over a period exceeding one year within the Bayou region

Why Should You Join the SCIA NextGen Leadership Coalition?

· Leadership Development: Be a part of a dynamic program designed to help you grow as a leader, gain valuable knowledge, and sharpen your skills in key areas such as communication, decision-making, and strategic planning. Grow the next generation of people wanting to join SCIA board

· Networking Opportunities: Gain exclusive access to high-level discussions with CEOs, VPs, and other influential leaders in the Bayou region. The coalition offers face-time with top executives, including roundtable discussions and sponsor cocktail hours to expand your professional connections.

· Career Advancement: The NGL is a direct path to board-level positions with SCIA and other prominent organizations. Participate in succession planning and mentorship opportunities, setting you up for greater professional recognition and leadership roles in the future.

· Hands-On Industry Knowledge: Understand the nuances of the energy sector, logistics, coastal resilience, and workforce development, making you a more well-rounded and informed leader. Get exposure to the latest trends and critical issues facing industries like oil and gas, as well as environmental sustainability.

· Special Engagements & Events: Enjoy exclusive access to high-profile events, including happy hours, DC Mardi Gras, and joint board meetings. These events allow you to build personal relationships with industry peers and engage in discussions that matter to the region.

· Workforce Development and Training: Participate in workshops focused on workforce development, HR best practices, and essential industry knowledge (e.g., bill tracking, biological opinions, coastal resilience) that directly impact the future of business and industry in Southeast Louisiana.

· Employer & Peer Recognition: Be recognized as a high-potential, high-performing individual supported by your employer. Demonstrating leadership qualities within a group of other emerging leaders boosts your professional standing both internally and externally.

· Exclusive Mentoring Opportunities: Gain invaluable insights from seasoned professionals, including past presidents, mentors, and reverse mentoring programs, helping you build a strong foundation for continued personal and professional growth.

 

2025 Agenda

Meeting 1 (April 9, 2025): Introduction & Industry-Specific Knowledge

Objective: Introduce members to the coalition’s mission, program structure, and key industries in Southeast Louisiana.

· 8:30 AM – Welcome & Icebreaker Activities

· 9:00 AM – Program Overview & Objectives

· 9:30 AM – Overview of the Energy Sector: Trends, Challenges, and Future Outlook

· 10:45 AM – Lawmaker Panel: Advocacy Issues / Legislative Infrastructure

· 12:00 PM – Closing Remarks & Q&A / Networking Lunch

 

Meeting 2 (June 25, 2025): Leadership Fundamentals & Coastal Resilience

Objective: Focus on building essential leadership skills and understanding the importance of coastal protection initiatives in the region.

· 8:30 AM – Welcome & Networking

· 9:00 AM – Core Leadership Skills: Communication, Decision-Making, and Ethical Leadership

· 9:30 AM – Coastal Resilience: Current Projects and Impact Panel

· 10:45 AM – Group Discussion & Workshop: Ethical Dilemmas in Leadership

· 12:00 PM – Closing Remarks & Q&A / Networking Lunch

 

Meeting 3 (August 27, 2025): Strategic Vision & Employee Development

Objective: Learn about strategic planning and employee development tactics that promote long- term growth and sustainability in businesses.

· 8:30 AM – Welcome & Networking

· 9:00 AM – Strategic Planning 101: Setting Goals, Aligning Personal and Organizational Objectives

· 9:30 AM – Employee Retention: Attracting and Developing Top Talent

· 10:45 AM – Roundtable Discussion with CEOs: Leadership in a Changing Workforce

· 12:00 PM – Closing Remarks & Q&A / Networking Lunch

 

Meeting 4 (November 5, 2025): Innovation, Future Trends, & Case Studies 

Objective: Explore technological advancements and sustainability practices in the industry, followed by analysis of successful leadership case studies.

· 8:30 AM – Welcome & Networking

· 9:00 AM – Embracing Innovation: The Role of Technology in Industry/ AI

· 9:30 AM – Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility in Business

· 10:00 AM – Case Study: Leadership in Action – Real-World Business Scenarios

· 10:30 AM – Interactive Workshop: Problem-Solving and Leadership Application

· 12:00 PM – Closing Remarks & Q&A / Networking Lunch