HPBA is launching the HPBA Leaders Academy, proudly supported by ICC Chimney. This new program gives participants the skills, knowledge, and connections to make a bigger difference in their companies, their communities, and the industry.
The HPBA Leaders Academy is built on three pillars:
- Leadership training: Enhance leadership and communication skills.
- Advocacy: Learn about public policy and how to work with elected officials.
- Industry knowledge: Build a deeper understanding of the hearth, barbecue, and outdoor living industry and the issues shaping it.
“Business is changing quickly, and that makes strong leadership more important than ever,” said Jill McClure, CAE, President and CEO of HPBA. “The HPBA Leaders Academy is an investment in the people who will guide our industry in the years ahead. The program brings together professionals from every corner of hearth, patio and barbecue to learn from one another, dig into the issues shaping their companies, and help build what comes next.”
“Having been a young participant in HPBA’s GALA 20 years ago, I experienced the value of programs like the HPBA Leaders Academy firsthand,” said Dan Bonar, Vice President – Residential, ICC Industrial Chimney Co. “The future of our industry depends on the leaders we develop today, and at ICC we’re proud to play a meaningful role in shaping that future.”
Building on GALA
The HPBA Leaders Academy builds on what HPBA’s Government Affairs Leadership Academy (GALA) started. Since its first class in 2008, GALA has trained some of the strongest advocates in our industry. Many graduates have gone on to take bigger roles at their companies, step into volunteer leadership positions, and help shape the industry’s future.
Our most successful GALA participants left with more than advocacy skills. They also strengthened their leadership skills. The HPBA Leaders Academy focuses on industry knowledge and leadership training to help participants grow into well-rounded leaders while keeping advocacy as a key part of the program.
How the Program Works
- Applications are now open; the 2027 class will be selected in January.
- The 2027 class will kick off at HPBExpo27, March 3-6, 2027, in Nashville.
- During the program year, participants will join webinars and meet in person three times: at HPBExpo27, at the Congressional Fly-In in summer 2027, and at HPBExpo28.
- Graduates join the HPBA Leaders Academy Alumni Network, which includes both HLA and former GALA participants.
Want to sharpen your advocacy skills, deepen your industry knowledge, or grow as a leader? The HPBA Leaders Academy is a chance to invest in your future and the future of our industry.
How to Apply
Applications are open October 15 to December 15. Space is limited.
Retailers and other members who are not manufacturers should contact their Affiliate Executive Director to let them know they’re interested.