Leadership Programs in Macomb County

Explore Leadership Macomb’s Core and Junior programs—immersive, community-focused leadership development for professionals and students across Macomb County

Programs Designed to Build Informed, Connected Leaders.

Leadership Macomb’s programs empower professionals and high school juniors across Macomb County to grow their skills, broaden their understanding of community systems, and build meaningful relationships. Participants explore real-world issues, access behind-the-scenes experiences, and connect with leaders across government, business, nonprofit, and education sectors. Our immersive approach helps participants gain clarity, confidence, and a deeper sense of purpose as they prepare to lead in their organizations and communities. Whether you’re a rising professional or a student planning your future, these programs open doors to personal growth and positive community impact.

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Core Leadership Program

This 10-month intensive provides existing and emerging leaders with a "backstage pass" to Macomb County. Through 11 full-day sessions, participants engage with subject matter experts to explore essential systems, assets and issues in Macomb County, while simultaneously building relationships within their cohort. 

  • Eligibility & Class Requirements

    Applicants must be 18 or older and live, work, or do business in Macomb County. Class size is approximately 50 participants. Each cohort is intentionally built to reflect the diversity of Macomb County — representing different industries, backgrounds, ages, and perspectives. Participants must meet the attendance requirements outlined in the application.

  • Tuition & Payment Details

     Tuition: $3,800  


    • Covers all program costs, materials, daily meals/snacks, and one ticket to the Commencement ceremony.
    • Payment is due 60 days before the first program day, unless alternate arrangements are approved.
    • A $200 deposit is required with the application – Applied toward tuition upon acceptance. Only refunded if the applicant is not selected.
  • Scholarships

    Limited need-based scholarships are available.


     Ideal for applicants:  

    • From small nonprofits or small businesses without training budgets
    • Or individuals paying out-of-pocket

     To apply, candidates must submit:  

    • Program application
    • Scholarship application
    • Required supporting documents

    Contact our office at 586-488-3819 for scholarship application

  • Selection Criteria

    The Selection Committee looks for applicants who:


    • Show a genuine commitment to Macomb County’s future
    • Demonstrate motivation, integrity, and community-minded values
    • Hold a current or emerging leadership role
    • Are involved in business, nonprofit, education, government, arts, labor, faith-based, or community sectors
    • Are prepared to make the time commitment required
    • Intend to engage in future service roles—boards, commissions, or community leadership positions

    The goal is to build a cohort that reflects the breadth and diversity of Macomb County — professionally, culturally, and civically.

Program Schedule (2026–2027)
  • Opening Retreat — September 16, 2026
  • Community Assets & Issues — September 17, 2026
  • Education & Workforce Development — October 21, 2026
  • Business & Economic Development — November 11, 2026
  • Arts & Cultures — December 9, 2026
  • Healthcare System — January 20, 2027
  • Poverty Simulation & Human Services — February 10, 2027
  • Justice System — March 17, 2027
  • Government / Defense / Aerospace — April 21, 2027
  • Energy & Environment — May 19, 2027
  • Leadership & Community Service — May 20, 2027
  • Commencement — June 2, 2027

How Do I Apply?

  1. Apply online (preferred)
  2. Or download the PDF application, then submit via:


Applications must be complete — including deposit and all attachments — to be reviewed.

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Junior Leadership Macomb

This summer camp helps prepare students for life after high school through hands-on career exploration, behind-the-scenes field trips, job shadowing, and real conversations with local leaders and professionals. Participants build confidence while learning practical skills like networking, interviewing, business etiquette, and personal finance— things they will actually use in the real world.


Each day of camp, students will meet at different locations across the community, giving them insider access to Macomb County, plus opportunities during the school year like attending a County Commissioners Meeting, an Arts Night Out at the Detroit Institute of Arts, and community service projects.


Students will emerge with clearer direction, stronger connections, and real-world experience before their senior year even starts. For more information, families can contact Julie Petkoff at 586-488-3819.

  • Program Objectives

     Junior Leadership Macomb is designed for:  


    • Prepare students for success beyond high school with real-world skills and experiences
    • Build career readiness through hands-on exploration and exposure to diverse career paths
    • Expand understanding of how community systems work and the leaders who help shape them
    • Inspire students to give back and make a positive impact through meaningful volunteerism
  • Application Guidelines

     Applications for Junior Leadership Macomb Class XIII (2026) will be available online in March 2026.  


    • The program offers unique learning experiences for students entering their junior year of high school through field trips, interactive activities, and expert guest speakers.
    • Each class includes about 40 students from across Macomb County — public, private, charter, and homeschool.
    • We intentionally build a diverse cohort that reflects the variety of schools, communities, and backgrounds in the county.
  • Eligibility

     To apply, students must:  


    • Be entering their junior year of high school in Macomb County in fall 2026.
    • Have a GPA above 2.0.

     Students are selected based on:  


    • Academic performance and personal goals
    • Interest in community service and leadership
    • Teacher, counselor, or community references

    To keep the class balanced, no more than 3 students per school will be selected.

  • Tuition & Financial Assistance
    • Program fee: $200 per student
    • Billed to parents/guardians after the student is accepted
    • Payment due by June 15, 2026
    • The fee is non-refundable

    Scholarships are available for students who demonstrate financial need:


    • Financial need does not affect acceptance decisions.
    • Students requesting assistance must complete the Scholarship Application section of the application.
    • For questions about scholarships, families can contact the Leadership Macomb office at 586-488-3819.
Junior Leadership Macomb Schedule (Class XIII – 2026–2027)

Build confidence, leadership skills, and lasting friendships at our Junior Leadership Macomb Summer Camp—where every day is designed to inspire growth and fun. 


  • JLM XIII Orientation with Parent/Guardian
    Monday, June 8, 2026 · 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
  • Intro to JLM XIII
    Monday, June 22, 2026 · 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
  • Justice System & Public Safety
    Tuesday, June 23, 2026 · 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
  • Health & Human Services
    Wednesday, June 24, 2026 · 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
  • Career Readiness
    Thursday, June 25, 2026 · 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
  • Leadership & Community Service
    Friday, June 26, 2026 · 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

How Do I Apply?

Applications are due no later than May 15, 2026.


Online Application (Recommended)

PDF / Hard Copy Application

We believe strong leadership reflects the full diversity of Macomb County. Junior Leadership Macomb welcomes students from all backgrounds and encourages every voice at the table. We respect different perspectives, invite a wide range of experiences, and work to ensure our activities and cohorts reflect the community we serve.

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– leadershipp macomb's Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

Participants in both programs gain a broad, real-world understanding of Macomb County’s systems and opportunities. Each program blends education, connection, and exploration through hands-on sessions and meaningful conversation.

What to Expect from Our Programs
  • Immersive learning days featuring tours, demonstrations, and discussions led by industry experts.
  • Cross-sector networking opportunities that build relationships among peers, alumni, and community leaders.
  • Real insights into countywide topics—from public safety and government to arts, economy, health, and more.
  • Professional skill-building experiences aligned with career readiness and civiv leadership.
ready to take the next step?

Let’s Build the Future Together.

We’re here to help you learn, grow, and connect through programs that strengthen Macomb. Whether you’re applying, supporting our mission, or exploring community impact, we’d love to connect.