Leadership Development Program

The AzABA Leadership Development Program is a unique opportunity for emerging behavior analysts to build leadership skills, gain mentorship from experienced AzABA leaders, and make a meaningful impact on the future of our profession in Arizona. The program is designed to create a pathway for members who are interested in serving in future board and leadership roles within AzABA.

Through mentorship, leadership training, and hands-on projects, participants will gain practical experience in nonprofit governance, strategic leadership, collaboration, and organizational service.

Who Should Apply?

We encourage applications from AzABA members who are interested in growing as leaders and contributing to the organization's future. The program is especially designed for:

• Graduate students in behavior analysis or related fields
• Early-career BCBAs (0-5 years post-certification)
• Current AzABA committee or SIG volunteers interested in expanding their leadership involvement
• Members who aspire to serve in Board, committee, or SIG leadership roles within the next 3-5 years

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be an active AzABA member in good standing for at least one year
• Be a graduate student, early-career BCBA (0-5 years), or active committee/SIG volunteer
• Demonstrate an interest in leadership and service within AzABA
• Support AzABA's commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion
• Provide one professional reference

• Be able to commit to the program requirements for the full nine-month experience

• • Participants should plan to commit approximately 5-8 hours per month including attendance at program workshops, mentor meetings, participation in team leadership project. 

AzABA is committed to building a cohort that reflects the diversity of Arizona's behavior analysis community across career stage, geography, culture, and professional backgrounds.

What You'll Gain

Participants will:

• Receive one-on-one mentorship from experienced AzABA leaders
• Learn about nonprofit governance and organizational leadership
• Develop skills in strategic planning, meeting facilitation, and conflict resolution
• Collaborate with peers on a leadership project that benefits AzABA
• Expand their professional network within the Arizona behavior analysis community
• Receive formal recognition upon successful completion of the program

Program Components

Leadership Workshops

Participants attend three leadership-focused learning experiences throughout the program:

• Kickoff Orientation
• Leadership Skills Workshop
• Closing Symposium and Project Presentations

Individual Mentorship

Each participant is paired with an experienced AzABA leader and meets monthly for guidance, coaching, and professional development. Mentor meetings are typically 45-60 minutes each month throughout the program.

Applied Leadership Project

Participants work in small teams to complete a real-world project that supports AzABA's mission and operations. Potential projects may include supporting SIG programming, developing member resources, contributing to policies, coordinating scholarship activities, or helping create educational offerings.

Ready to Lead?