2026 Emerging Leaders Program for Land Surveyors

Registration & Nominations Open Now!

What is the Emerging Leaders Program (ELP)?

The 2026 Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) is a brand-new, leadership-focused training experience designed specifically for professionals in the land surveying industry. This inaugural program was developed in response to the overwhelming success of the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Emerging Leaders Programs across the country—programs that have transformed the careers of hundreds of engineers. Now, it’s time for land surveyors to have a dedicated space to grow, lead, and shape the future of their firms and the profession.

This is not a technical course. The ELP focuses on the business, communication, and leadership skills that are essential to navigating today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities in the land surveying profession. It is an unmatched opportunity to learn from top industry leaders and business experts, build a peer network across the region, and develop the tools needed to succeed at higher levels of leadership.

Who is the Program For?

This program is built for currently licensed land surveyors, individuals working toward licensure, and non-licensed professionals within your firm who play a significant role in operations, strategy, or business development. It is designed for those you see as future firm leaders—those who have the potential to make a significant impact on your business and the industry as a whole.

Ideal candidates:

  • Are rising stars in their firm with potential for strategic or senior-level leadership
  • Are seeking to deepen their understanding of business, communication, and leadership
  • May be surveyors, managers, or other high-impact staff within your firm

To ensure broad participation, the program is limited to 12–20 participants, with a cap of one participant per firm. Additional participants from the same firm may be considered if space allows after the initial registration period.

What Will Participants Learn?

The ELP focuses on developing real-world leadership and business competencies not typically covered in academic or licensing programs. Topics include:

  • Strategic thinking & firm planning
  • Effective communication & conflict management
  • Marketing & client relationships
  • Leadership styles & team management
  • Navigating change & business development

Each session is highly interactive and led by respected industry leaders and business professionals.

Why It Matters

Leadership is not just about technical knowledge—it’s about inspiring others, making strategic decisions, and ensuring the long-term health of your firm and the industry. The Emerging Leaders Program is your chance to invest in the future leaders of your business and the broader profession.

Program Schedule & Locations

The 2026 program consists of three, two-day in-person sessions spaced over the summer:

  • Session 1: June 2026 – Topeka, KS
  • Session 2: July 2026 – Wichita, KS
  • Session 3: August 2026 – Kansas City, KS

This format allows participants to remain engaged in their professional responsibilities while fully immersing themselves in a transformative learning experience.

Cost and Enrollment

We are proud to open the 2026 ELP to land surveying professionals across Kansas and our surrounding states, including Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Colorado. 

  • Tuition: $1,600 per participant (covers all sessions, materials, and some meals)

Spots are limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Firms are encouraged to nominate one emerging leader to represent them in this year’s cohort.

Registration & Application Process

Participation in the Emerging Leaders Program is not automatic. All interested individuals must complete an application, which will be reviewed by the KSLS Emerging Leaders Committee. Final acceptance into the program is determined after the review process, and applicants will be contacted directly with the committee’s decision.

How to Apply:

  1. Download the Application – Complete all required fields on the form.
  2. Upload the Application – Use the registration link provided to securely submit your completed application.

Once your application has been reviewed and you are officially selected, KSLS will issue an invoice for program tuition. Payment is required by the deadline to confirm your spot in the program.


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