Professional Development Programs
Leadership Miami
For more than 26 years, the Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce has been developing and inspiring leaders through its premier Leadership Miami program. Founded in 1998, Leadership Miami is dedicated to encouraging and educating citizens to serve in leadership roles throughout our community. The program is designed to develop talents, broaden perspectives, and equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful impact in both their professional and civic lives.
Leadership is the driving force behind positive change in any community, and Leadership Miami helps participants understand how they can contribute to the future success of Miami, Ottawa County, and the State of Oklahoma. Through hands-on experiences, leadership development training, and direct interaction with community leaders, participants gain valuable insight into the organizations, resources, and partnerships that shape our region.
Often described as a "behind-the-curtain" experience, Leadership Miami provides exclusive access to people, places, and programs that most residents never have the opportunity to see firsthand. Even individuals who have lived in the area their entire lives are often surprised by what they learn throughout the program.
Participants benefit by:
- Strengthening personal and professional leadership skills
- Expanding business and community networks
- Building meaningful personal and professional relationships
- Developing a greater understanding of local and state issues
- Discovering opportunities for civic engagement and community involvement
- Gaining insight into the challenges and opportunities facing our region
- Learning what it takes to effectively serve in leadership roles within the community
"Leadership Miami doesn't just teach leadership. It connects participants to the people, places, and possibilities that shape our community's future."
Call the Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce at 918-542-4481 for information about upcoming classes and application opportunities.
Program Details
Leadership Miami is a 10-month professional development program that begins each September and concludes with graduation in June.
The program combines leadership training with immersive educational sessions that provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the community and the organizations that support it. Sessions are typically held on the second Thursday of each month, with a few exceptions throughout the year.
To provide an engaging and interactive experience, class size is limited to 15 participants, allowing for meaningful discussions, relationship-building, and personal growth. Participants are expected to meet attendance requirements to ensure they receive the full benefit of the program.
Throughout the year, participants explore a variety of topics and industries that are vital to the success of our region, including:
- Economic Development
- Tourism
- City and County Government Operations
- Education
- Agriculture and Agribusiness
- Tribal Nations
- Non-Profit Organizations
- Health and Wellness
- State Government and Legislative Processes
A highlight of the program is a visit to the Oklahoma State Capitol, where participants gain a firsthand understanding of state government and learn how decisions made at the state level impact local communities.
Leadership development is woven throughout the entire program and begins with Motive Matters, an intensive two-day leadership training experience designed to help participants better understand themselves, their leadership style, and how they can effectively motivate and influence others.
Application Information
Leadership Miami participants are selected through an application and interview process conducted annually by the Leadership Miami Selection Team.
Applications are accepted each year for the upcoming class, and interested individuals should be prepared to participate in an interview before final selections are made.
Tuition & Scholarship Assistance
Leadership Miami tuition is $450 per participant.
The Chamber is committed to making leadership development accessible and may offer scholarship assistance to qualified applicants demonstrating financial need. Information regarding scholarship opportunities is included within the program application materials.
Become a Community Leader
Leadership Miami graduates represent a diverse group of business professionals, entrepreneurs, educators, government employees, nonprofit leaders, and community volunteers who share a commitment to making Ottawa County a stronger place to live, work, and do business.
Whether you are an emerging leader or an experienced professional looking to deepen your community involvement, Leadership Miami offers a transformative experience that will expand your perspective, strengthen your leadership abilities, and connect you with the people and organizations shaping the future of our region.
Women in Business Conference
The Women in Business Connection Conference & Expo (WIBC) is the Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce's premier annual professional development event for women across the Four-State Area. Designed to inspire, educate, and connect, this full-day conference equips attendees with the knowledge, strategies, resources, and relationships needed to succeed in today's ever-changing professional landscape.
Each year, the conference explores a unique theme through engaging presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions led by local and regional business leaders, entrepreneurs, executives, and subject matter experts. No two conferences are the same, ensuring attendees gain fresh perspectives, relevant insights, and practical tools they can apply in both their professional and personal lives.
Now celebrating its 5th Annual Conference in 2026, WIBC has become a signature event for women seeking opportunities to grow as leaders, strengthen their networks, and learn from the experiences of others. While each year's theme and speaker lineup varies, the conference consistently focuses on empowering women through education, leadership development, networking, and personal growth.
Attendees enjoy a full day of professional development that includes:
- Inspirational keynote presentations
- Leadership and career development opportunities
- Networking with women professionals from throughout the region
- Access to local vendors, exhibitors, and community resources
- Meaningful conversations and relationship-building opportunities
- A light breakfast and lunch included with registration
- Silent auction and exhibitor/vendor marketplace
"Professional growth doesn't happen by chance. It happens when organizations invest in opportunities that challenge, inspire, and connect their people."
Call the Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce at 918-542-4481 for information.
Whether you are a business owner, executive, manager, entrepreneur, emerging leader, educator, nonprofit professional, or someone looking to invest in your personal and professional growth, the Women in Business Connection Conference & Expo offers valuable takeaways and lasting connections.
Businesses are encouraged to invest in their teams by sending employees to attend, and individuals are welcomed to join fellow professionals for a day of learning, inspiration, and collaboration.
Hosted by the Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce's Women in Business Program, the conference supports the organization's mission to empower and develop women through education, networking, mentoring, and partnerships while promoting opportunities for women throughout Ottawa County and the surrounding region.
Join us each fall for a dynamic day of learning, leadership, connection, and inspiration as we celebrate the achievements and potential of women in business.
Business Seminars & Workshops
The Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce Business Seminars & Workshops series provides valuable educational opportunities designed to help businesses, organizations, and professionals stay informed, strengthen their skills, and navigate today's evolving business environment.
Offered throughout the year in a variety of formats, these professional development programs are designed to address current business challenges, emerging trends, leadership development, workforce needs, and operational best practices. Sessions may be presented as Chamber Connect Lunch & Learns, breakfast meetings, half-day workshops, or comprehensive full-day training events, providing flexible options for busy professionals and business teams.
The Chamber partners with local, regional, and state experts to deliver relevant and practical content that attendees can immediately apply within their organizations. Topics are selected based on current business needs and emerging issues affecting employers throughout Ottawa County and the surrounding region.
Past seminar and workshop topics have included:
- Physical Business Security
- State of the Community Updates
- Legislative and Government Affairs Updates
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Business
- Email and Cybersecurity Best Practices
- Loss Prevention Strategies
- Marketing and Branding Techniques
- Customer Service Excellence
- Workforce Development
- Leadership and Management Skills
- Economic Development Trends
- Human Resources and Employment Topics
No two programs are exactly alike, ensuring participants have access to fresh ideas, practical tools, and timely information throughout the year.
"Knowledge is one of the most valuable investments a business can make. Our seminars and workshops provide the tools, insights, and connections that help businesses adapt, grow, and succeed."
Call the Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce at 918-542-4481 for information.
These events provide opportunities to:
- Learn from industry experts and experienced professionals
- Stay informed about issues impacting local businesses
- Improve workplace efficiency and effectiveness
- Develop leadership and management skills
- Discover new technologies and business solutions
- Build connections with fellow Chamber members and community leaders
- Invest in employee and organizational growth
Whether you are a business owner, manager, employee, entrepreneur, nonprofit leader, or community stakeholder, the Chamber's Business Seminars & Workshops offer valuable opportunities to expand your knowledge, strengthen your organization, and connect with others in the business community.
Investing in professional development is investing in the future success of your business. Join us throughout the year as we connect, learn, and grow together.