Develop Today’s Talent Into Tomorrow’s Leaders
The printing industry’s future depends on the people who will lead it. The PICA Emerging Leaders program was created to help students and early-career professionals develop the skills, relationships, and industry knowledge needed to become the next generation of leaders in graphic communications, print, packaging, and related industries.
Emerging Leaders is more than a networking group—it is a leadership development community designed to engage, empower, and advocate for young professionals as they learn to create value for themselves, their organizations, and the industry as a whole. Through mentorship, education, collaboration, and hands-on involvement in industry initiatives, participants gain the confidence and experience needed to grow their careers and make meaningful contributions to their companies.
Built around PICA’s Value Stream framework, the program connects participants to opportunities that extend far beyond their day-to-day responsibilities. Members are immersed in workforce development initiatives, strategic industry partnerships, professional education, and collaborative projects that provide real-world leadership experience. Along the way, they build relationships with peers, executives, educators, suppliers, and industry veterans who can help guide their professional journey.
Whether you are a student exploring career opportunities, a young professional seeking growth, or an employer investing in future leadership, Emerging Leaders provides a pathway to long-term success.
Our Purpose
To facilitate the engagement of students and young industry professionals through collaborative opportunities, education, mentorship, and industry involvement that drive growth and value creation for individuals, organizations, and the printing industry.
Our Mission
To engage, empower, and advocate for young professionals as they learn to create value for themselves, their companies, and printing-related industries.
Why Join Emerging Leaders?
As an Emerging Leader, you will gain access to opportunities designed to accelerate both your personal and professional development.
Build Meaningful Industry Connections
Develop relationships with fellow young professionals, industry executives, mentors, educators, and suppliers. These connections create a powerful network that can support your career for years to come.
Learn from Proven Leaders
Gain insight from experienced professionals who have successfully navigated leadership roles within the printing industry. Mentorship opportunities provide guidance, perspective, and practical advice to help you grow.
Develop Leadership Skills
Participate in educational programs, workshops, industry events, and committee activities that strengthen communication, decision-making, problem-solving, and leadership capabilities.
Expand Your Industry Knowledge
Explore the broader printing and graphic communications value chain through workforce development initiatives, strategic partnerships, and exposure to emerging industry trends.
Create Value for Your Career
Build confidence, enhance your professional profile, and gain experiences that position you for future advancement and leadership opportunities.
Make an Impact
Contribute to initiatives that support workforce development, industry awareness, and the long-term growth of the printing industry.
Benefits for Employers
Investing in Emerging Leaders is an investment in the future of your company.
Develop Future Leaders
Employees gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence necessary to assume greater responsibility and leadership roles within your organization.
Strengthen Succession Planning
The program helps prepare high-potential employees for future leadership opportunities, creating a stronger pipeline of talent for your business.
Increase Employee Engagement and Retention
Employees who feel supported in their professional development are more likely to remain engaged, motivated, and committed to your organization.
Expand Industry Representation
Participating companies gain additional visibility and representation within industry initiatives, workforce development efforts, and strategic partnerships.
Access Valuable Industry Networks
Your employees develop relationships with professionals throughout the industry, bringing new ideas, best practices, and opportunities back to your organization.
Support Industry Growth
By investing in Emerging Leaders, employers help strengthen the workforce and ensure the long-term success of the printing and graphic communications industry.
The Emerging Leaders Experience
The Emerging Leaders program provides a clear pathway for growth through:
- Professional networking opportunities
- Leadership development programs
- Mentorship and coaching
- Industry conferences and events
- Workforce development initiatives
- Strategic industry partnerships
- Community engagement opportunities
- Exposure to industry leaders at every level
- Collaboration with peers across the printing industry
Participants leave with more than knowledge—they gain relationships, confidence, leadership experience, and a deeper understanding of how they can contribute to the success of their organizations and the industry.
Empower Potential. Develop Leaders. Shape the Future.
Join the PICA Emerging Leaders program and become part of a community committed to building stronger professionals, stronger companies, and a stronger printing industry for generations to come. For more information on the PICA Emerging Leaders program, email here.
