Developed in 2013, the Emerging Leaders Network (ELN) answered one of the top requests from principals – provide specific professional development training to individuals in the chapter. Curriculum prepares participants with at least 3 years and a maximum of 8 years of experience in the design industry for leadership roles through a series of interactive seminars covering a wide spectrum of skills and business fundamentals over an 11-month program.

The program is free for participants, even non-IIDA members. In exchange for the invaluable training the participants receive, their companies agree to pay for the individual’s IIDA membership the following year and, once graduated from the ELN, participants are encouraged to join an IIDA NE committee to continue to develop their leadership skills while strengthening their ties to our community.

Many graduates of the program have gone on to chair IIDA NE committees, hold seats on our Board of Directors, and – most importantly – to achieve leadership positions on their project teams and within their respective companies. The impact of this year-long program on company business and leadership development is well-recognized by principals throughout our design community.


Learn more about our current and past groups of IIDA NE Emerging Leaders below.