Leadership Development
Leadership Torrance
Grow your leadership potential . . .
Leadership Torrance is a program focused on developing effective leaders from across the South Bay. Sponsored by the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce, it provides opportunities for emerging leaders to take an active role towards building a stronger community.
2027 Application Coming Soon
About the Program
Leadership Torrance was envisioned as a way to create visibility for emerging leaders. The mission of the program is to develop effective leaders by encouraging community connections through partnerships with City officials and local businesses.
What Members Are Saying
“Leadership Torrance has been one of the most impactful experiences in both my professional and personal development. Each organization we visited exemplified a deep commitment to our community, from expanding educational opportunities and inspiring youth career aspirations to advancing medical care and preserving our hometown culture. I left this program deeply inspired to continue growing into a leader worthy of carrying forward the legacies of those who have shaped our city, embody the spirit of the WhyTorrance experience, and share our commitment to keeping Torrance a safe, thriving, and connected community.”
“Leadership Torrance was a transformative experience that deepened my connection to the community while expanding my professional network in meaningful ways. Through the program, I gained a better understanding of how local government, businesses, and nonprofits collaborate to shape the city and state, and how I could be a more active and informed participant. Every session offered new insight, and the relationships I built continue to be both personally and professionally impactful. I walked away with more than just knowledge—I left with a renewed sense of purpose and a stronger connection with businesses and organizations in our community.”
What’s Involved
Nine day-long excursions spread over a four-month period will jumpstart your understanding of the Torrance community and South Bay business environment. The program features an impressive array of business owners and industries representing the South Bay’s power base, as well as access to many closed-door areas of our infrastructure. You will complete the program with a deeper insight into the rich history of the South Bay and the current issues facing different sectors of the community.
The program provides you with ample opportunities to fast-track your networking circle with:
- Torrance and South Bay businesses
- City, County, and State Government
- The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce
- South Bay community organizations
Sacramento Trip
One of the program’s signature experiences is a two-day trip to Sacramento, where participants meet with state legislators and gain firsthand exposure to California government. Lodging, airfare, and meals are included in the program cost.
Port of Long Beach
Torrance Police Department
Torrance Fire Department
North High School
City Government
What Will Participants Be Doing?
Interact with Influential South Bay Leaders
Build rapport with highly motivated and aspiring leaders through specially planned activities designed to foster meaningful connections.
Engage in Highly Visible Activities
Expand awareness of Torrance community infrastructure to understand the challenges and opportunities facing the South Bay.
Discover and Enhance Leadership Abilities
Develop leadership understanding through discussions with current leaders and fellow cohort members throughout the program.
Elevate Business Relationships
Learn guiding principles and best practices from a variety of community businesses and civic organizations.
Leadership In Action
Each Leadership Torrance class chooses a Community Project that allows participants to put some of the leadership skills they develop into practice. It’s a tangible way to give back and make a long-lasting contribution to the community. The class organizes and executes the Community Project as a team.
Additionally, graduates from each Leadership Torrance graduating class become the facilitators of the next year’s program, providing graduates with a significant opportunity to continue serving the community, to improve an already outstanding program, and continue to pursue excellence in leadership — this time in an actual leadership role.
Skills Focus
Leadership Torrance Alumni Association
Over 40 years, hundreds of leaders have graduated from Leadership Torrance. The Alumni Association keeps graduates connected, providing ongoing networking opportunities and continued interaction with the current class. All graduates are eligible to join this exclusive group and remain part of the Leadership Torrance community long after graduation.
Program Investment
TACC Members & Employees
$1,295
Non-Members
$1,595
Payment is required upon acceptance. Cost includes all materials, the two-day Sacramento trip (lodging, airfare, and scheduled meals), and the graduation ceremony and reception.
Not yet a Chamber member? Join today to take advantage of member pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are excursions during the day or at night?
All excursions happen during the daytime, typically 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
What is the time commitment?
Approximately 16 hours per month, directly tied to excursions and leadership discussions at the Chamber.
Does the program require homework?
There is no formal homework. Cohorts may collectively read a leadership book together.
Are there team projects or group assignments?
Yes. Participants collaboratively work on a service project to benefit the community.
Will participating impact my day-to-day work?
Beyond absences on excursion days, the impact is minimal. We recommend discussing your participation with your direct supervisor.
What if I miss a scheduled day?
Directors track attendance and prefer that participants miss no more than 2 of the 6 months. Please contact the directors when you need to miss an event.
What is the program length?
Six months, from Orientation through Graduation.
Will I need to use a vehicle?
Yes. Some excursions require travel. Carpooling is welcome, or you may use your own vehicle.
2027 Leadership Team
Program Director
Ian Johnson
Top Tyr Training
Co-Director
Andy Lee
Farmer's Insurance
Co-Director
Ryan Villarreal
Stellar Team Media
2027 Applications
Opening Soon
Applications for the 2027 Leadership Torrance cohort will be available soon. Contact the Chamber for more information about the program.
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