Heber Leadership Academy
Become a Leader in Your Community.
Heber Leadership Academy provides a unique experience for individuals in the community to learn from local experts and key decision makers while developing the skills and resources needed to shape the futures of their own businesses, organizations, and community. Over the 9 month program, participants will expand their professional network and learn how to become more educated and involved in their community.
Apply for the 2026-2027 program today! Applications are due by August 17th, 2026
Testimonials
Curriculum
The Heber Leadership Academy runs from August 2026 through May 2027 with one class session each month. All sessions will be held on one Thursday a month from 12pm-4 pm with lunch provided. During sessions, participants will be introduced to influential community leaders, discuss hot topics and issues of concern to their city, acquire valuable access to information and resources to aid them in their own leadership endeavors, and gain an enhanced understanding of their community. Many of the classes will include a tour of the facility hosting the session, which will vary month to month dependent and session topic.
2026-2027 Class Schedule – tentative
August 20, 2026
Orientation & General Leadership
Participants will meet program leaders, establish expectations, and explore foundational leadership principles that promote effective community involvement.
September 17, 2026
Public Safety, Crime Prevention, & Law Enforcement
A behind‑the‑scenes look at police, fire, and emergency services. Participants will learn about local crime trends, response protocols, and the partnerships that keep Heber City safe.
October 15, 2026
Civic Candidate Forum, & Local Elections
Attendees will observe a moderated discussion featuring candidates for Wasatch County Council and the State House of Representatives. The session highlights the decision‑making responsibilities of elected officials and provides an inside look into civic dialogue.
November 18, 2026
Economic Development, Tourism, & Regional Transportation
Participants will explore how economic growth, tourism, and regional transportation systems work together to support the Heber Valley’s economy and community.
December 16, 2026
Local Government, Community Engagement & Service Organizations
An overview of Heber City’s administrative functions, interlocal cooperation, and community service opportunities; featuring local nonprofits and volunteer pathways.
January 21, 2027
State & Federal Government, Courts & Judicial Perspectives
This session introduces participants to Utah’s legislative and executive systems, federal partnerships, and judicial processes; featuring insights from county judges.
February 18, 2027
Hospital Operations & Public Health
Participants will learn how hospitals, clinics, and the county health department collaborate to serve the valley.
March 18, 2027
Power, Water Resources & Sewer Utilities
This session explores critical infrastructure including energy distribution, water sourcing, water districts, treatment systems, and long‑term sustainability planning.
April 15, 2027
School District & Education
A focused exploration of local K–12 operations, district leadership roles, budgeting, student services, and future needs for a growing community. The session also includes perspectives from post‑secondary partners, highlighting pathways that support workforce readiness and lifelong learning in the Heber Valley.
May 20, 2027
2032 Utah Winter Olympics Impact & Graduation Ceremony
Participants will learn about the anticipated regional impacts of the 2032 Olympics and celebrate completion of the program with a graduation luncheon.
Tuition
$275
Each participant accepted into the program will be required to pay tuition in full before the first session commences. This tuition covers the cost of meals, activities, and materials.
A discount of $50 will be offered for Heber Valley Chamber of Commerce members (cost $225)
Class Project
The participants will be collectively deciding on a project that would benefit the community and working throughout the duration of the program to complete it. In an ongoing process throughout the program, participants will engage as a civic group to design, plan, and implement a project that will benefit the community. This allows for the class to practice and develop what was learned throughout the program while at the same time bringing about an ethos of service that often coincides with leadership. The project and the logistics surrounding it is determined collectively by the participants and what they envision as being most beneficial to the community.
Attendance
To fully benefit from the program, participants will be expected to commit time each month to attend the class sessions. Class members must not miss more than 2 sessions to graduate from the program.
Graduation
The final session, occurring in May, will consist of a graduation ceremony and luncheon. During the graduation, participants will receive a plaque, a t-shirt, and a letter of completion.
Criteria for Selection
Individuals selected for enrollment will be chosen from both private and public sectors. Anybody living or working in Wasatch County and the surrounding area will be considered. Work experience, current skills, aspirations to serve in leadership roles throughout the community, and commitment to community involvement will all be considered when reviewing applications. While being a member of the Chamber of Commerce allows for a discount in tuition, individuals will not be selected for their membership. A total of 20 individuals will be accepted into the 2026-2027 program.
Application
To apply for the 2026-2027 program, complete the application by August 17, 2026. After participant selection is complete, you will be contacted to inform you of application standing and following steps required if accepted.
Questions?
For any questions regarding Heber Leadership Academy, please contact Lainee Meyers, lmeyers@heberut.gov
- Please review the Class Project section on the website.
- Please share with us some initial ideas of potential projects you have that would follow the criteria for a class project.
