Palo Alto College is excited to introduce PAC Leads, a dynamic leadership development program designed to allow local professionals and community members to build their leadership skills, engage with industry experts, and grow their networks—all without restrictive costs or time commitments. Led by Palo Alto College administrators Esteban “Steve” Sosa, the Dean of Academic Support Services, and Amanda Harrison, the Academic Program Coordinator, PAC Leads was established with a specific mission: to provide accessible, flexible, and practical leadership development. Steve and Amanda have extensive experience in higher education and team management, which influenced their decision to avoid a traditional lecture-based program. Instead, they created a dynamic environment where participants could learn from one another, reflect on their leadership styles, and gain new perspectives on how to make a greater impact in their communities. The idea for PAC Leads began when Steve and Amanda took a deep dive into the existing leadership programs in the area. They discovered that while many offered valuable insights, some were lengthy or cost-prohibitive for many individuals. As professionals with busy lives and limited resources, many aspiring or current leaders simply didn’t have the time or financial flexibility to attend these programs. Recognizing this gap, Steve and Amanda set out to create a leadership training program that was affordable, flexible, and impactful for leaders at all stages of their careers. With this goal in mind, they created the PAC Leads Institutes, which currently include three key modules: Inspire, Engage, and Empower. Each module is designed to provide a rich, hands-on experience that combines leadership principles with real-world examples, award-winning results, site visits, and dynamic guest facilitators. “Your leadership style will change throughout [your career] as you gain experience, but starting early with a good foundation will help you avoid any major regrets,” shared Amanda. The Inspire Institute, launched in Fall 2024, is designed for leaders at all levels to reflect on their leadership styles, ideas, and aspirations, whether they are just starting their careers or are seasoned professionals. “A lesson I learned from an old professor is, ‘Why would I ever dismiss something that I could learn from?’” Amanda says. “Even when we think we’ve got it all figured out, someone else’s perspective can shift everything.” Participants in this module will engage with industry leaders, participate in group activities, and gain insights into motivating others and fostering a positive and productive team environment. Looking ahead, the Engage Institute, scheduled for Fall 2025, will build on the lessons learned in Inspire. This module will focus on broadening participants’ reflections to include their teammates and how to work effectively with others by leveraging individual strengths. The goal is to create a collaborative and supportive atmosphere where attendees can practice what they’ve learned and begin applying these skills in their work environments. Finally, the Empower Institute, scheduled to launch in Fall 2026, will help participants take their leadership skills to the next level. This module will focus on implementing what has been learned on a broader scale, connecting with the community, and learning how to drive impactful change. PAC Leads not only supports seasoned professionals but also encourages the growth of emerging leaders. Steve offers advice for those just beginning their leadership journey, “Don’t underestimate what a chance encounter can do for you. It’s okay to take advantage of opportunities that come your way.” He also emphasizes the importance of continuous growth. Steve explains, “You never stop learning, so it's important to keep an open mindset because it’s never too late to learn a new perspective.” Through PAC Leads, Palo Alto College is reimagining the future of leadership development, empowering the community to lead with purpose, confidence, and impact. To learn more or to register for an upcoming session, visit alamo.edu/pac/leads.