Aspiring Leaders aims to accelerate career advancement

UT Southwestern’s Aspiring Leaders Program doesn't just equip participants with the most effective tools and strategies – it propels them toward promotion.

UT Southwestern employees in a nonsupervisory or nonmanagerial role are credited with one year of supervisory experience after completing the free, 12-month professional development program.

“There is no program like it,” said Randy Hamrick, Senior Organizational Development Consultant and program lead since 2011. “Most programs are for employees already in management.”

Fifty-five percent of graduates experience professional advancement while 21 percent transition laterally into positions that are a better fit.

“It’s about providing opportunities for participants to learn and exhibit leadership skills that will serve them well in their careers,” Mr. Hamrick said.

Honey Rodine – who’s also known as Rosey – graduated from the program in February 2017. At the time of her acceptance, she served as Clinic Staff Coordinator for Radiation Oncology. Ms. Rodine praises the program for giving her the confidence and communication skills needed to apply for a supervisory role.  

“When I joined the Aspiring Leaders Program, my professional goal was to become a better leader in whatever position I held,” she said. “I am now a Clinic Staff Supervisor in the same department.”

Dr. Marcel Mettlen, Assistant Professor of Cell Biology, graduated from the program in February. In a quest to improve his leadership skills, he had originally gravitated to a different management course, but ultimately sought out the Aspiring Leaders Program.

“After bringing my idea up to my supervisor, she informed me that UT Southwestern has more to offer than just one course,” Dr. Mettlen said. “The Aspiring Leaders Program best suited my needs.”

Dr. Mettlen credits the program with helping him understand the dynamics and evolution of leadership, which involve adaptation, self-awareness, self-evaluation, and self-control through active engagement. He is certain the objectives coached will support his role in advising his colleagues throughout research collaborations inside and outside UTSW.

“Leadership is paramount for a healthy work environment and is fun and rewarding when done right,” Dr. Mettlen said. “The Aspiring Leaders Program is a great starting block that gives you the right tools and knowledge to become a great leader.”

Launched in 2010, the Aspiring Leaders Program saw a huge spike in interest in 2013, prompting organizers to implement two sessions each year beginning in 2015.

Candidates must have at least two years of UT Southwestern service, be recommended by their manager, and meet a performance review score requirement. Once accepted, participants meet for a 4-hour session monthly, undergo five training assessments, and are paired with a mentor.

“The mentor piece is cross-functional,” said Mr. Hamrick. “This benefits both the participant and the mentor by broadening their networks and expanding their understanding of UT Southwestern.”

Mr. Hamrick recalls having to find 20 mentors in the program’s first year. Now, close to 40 mentors offer their time each year.

“My mentor has been a big part of my success in my current position by being available whenever I need encouragement or just an ear to listen,” Ms. Rodine said. “The leadership skills you learn in this program are priceless and can be applied to any situation, even to teenage daughters at home!”

Organizational Development & Training will accept nominations for the upcoming Aspiring Leaders Program through June 30.