PLSO is continuing the Emerging Leaders Practicum at the 2027 PLSO Conference, January 13–15 in Salem. The program supports PLSO's strategic goal to Improve Leadership (Goal 3) by helping Chapters identify and develop members with the potential to take on future leadership roles within PLSO and the profession.

The Emerging Leaders Practicum is a Chapter-sponsored mentorship program under PLSO's Leadership Academy, developed, implemented, and managed by the Practices Committee.

Program Framework

The practicum is organized around understanding PLSO's past, present, and future:

• Our History: Who are we?
• Our Practices: What is expected?
• Our Vision: How do we get there?

By the end of the practicum, Emerging Leaders will have developed knowledge and familiarity in six areas of professional competency:

• Organization: PLSO's founders, organizational structure, mission, and ethical standards
• History: Key events in Oregon surveying history and the role of County Surveyors
• Competencies: Personal and professional competencies and the role of the surveyor in society
• Leadership: Practices, principles, and traits of effective leaders
• Communication: Persuasive writing and public speaking
• Law, Logic, and Learning: Critical thinking and problem-solving methods

When: The practicum begins at the PLSO Conference, January 13–15, 2027, and continues through the 2028 PLSO Conference.

Where: The first meeting will take place during the 2027 PLSO Conference in Salem. Subsequent sessions will be held monthly via Zoho, during Chapter meetings, and as otherwise determined by the Mentor and Mentee.

Who: PLSO members identified by their Chapters as Emerging Leaders. Chapter Presidents provide local oversight, with support from the PLSO Practices Committee.

Cost: Your time and commitment. Nominal fees for materials may apply. The first nine successful candidates will receive 50% off registration for the 2027 PLSO Conference and, upon successful completion of the practicum, 50% off registration for the 2028 PLSO Conference. Additional scholarship opportunities may also be available.

Next Steps

Interested members should contact Jeremy A. Sherer at 541-517-8205, complete the Mentor-Mentee Agreement, and plan to attend the first meeting at the 2027 PLSO Conference.

Program Materials found at Emerging Leaders Program.

We hope to see the next generation of PLSO leaders there!