Class XLIII (2026-2027) Application
Thank you for your interest in Leadership Waco.
We encourage you to complete this application thoughtfully, as it is designed to help us understand your leadership experiences, perspectives, and commitment to the Greater Waco community.
Leadership Waco benefits Greater Waco by developing informed, connected, and activated community leaders. As a premier program of the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Waco equips current and emerging leaders with the knowledge, connections, and skills needed to make a lasting impact on the Greater Waco community.
Over the course of 10 months, participants gain firsthand insight into the industries and institutions that drive Waco’s success, including aviation, tourism, education, healthcare, manufacturing, and local government. Through immersive experiences, in-depth discussions, and hands-on learning, participants deepen their understanding of the opportunities and challenges shaping our region.
Participants also build meaningful cross-sector relationships and develop the tools to lead with confidence and contribute to Waco’s continued growth. Each year, a limited number of applicants are selected, resulting in a diverse and dynamic class of professionals dedicated to shaping the future of our community.
Applications are reviewed by an anonymous selection committee, with final approval granted by the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee.
Eligibility, Time and Financial Commitment
Leadership Waco requires a meaningful investment of time, engagement, and presence. Please review the following carefully before proceeding.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply, you must meet all of the following criteria:
-Live or work in McLennan County for at least 12 months as of 3/1/2026
-Be employed by an organization in good standing with the Greater Waco Chamber
-Be at least 25 years old as of 3/1/2026
-Have employer support for participation
Class Day Experience:
Leadership Waco is an active, immersive experience. While each class day varies in content and location, participants should expect:
-Walking to downtown locations on some days (up to two miles total throughout the day)
-Travel by Waco Transit bus to visit local industries
-Tours that may involve extended periods of walking and time spent outdoors
-Periods of extended seated time during panels and presentations
If you have questions about the expectations outlined above, please contact the Chamber office prior to submitting your application.
Attendance Expectations
Leadership Waco is built on active participation and shared experience. Each class day is designed as a full-day immersion, and the value of the program comes from learning alongside one another through consistent engagement.
The class meets one Tuesday each month from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and full participation is expected. Because each session builds on relationships and shared learning, participants who miss more than two sessions, for any reason, will be dismissed from the program.
Please review the schedule below and confirm you are able to attend at least eight class days before continuing with this application.
Attendance expectations include:
-Participation in the Orientation Retreat is required
-Participants may miss no more than two class days
-Missing more than two hours of a class day — including late arrival or early departure — counts as an absence
Class Dates
August 25, 2026 Mandatory Orientation Retreat
September 22, 2026
October 27, 2026
November 10, 2026
December 8, 2026
January 26, 2027
February 23, 2027
March 23, 2027
April 27, 2027
May 11, 2027
June 8, 2027
June 22, 2027 Graduation
Program Costs
Application fee: $100
This will be collected at the end of this application*. This is expected to come from the applicant.
*If you have applied to previous cohorts, you will not be charged the application fee again.
Tuition: $1,550
Upon your acceptance into this year's cohort, you will receive an invoice for your tuition. It is due in full before the first day of class (Aug. 25). This may come from you personally or your employer.