Last week, the Leadership Washington class explored local businesses including the KCII Radio studios. The nine-month program is led by the Washington Chamber of Commerce and aims to educate and connect emerging and established leaders through hands-on experiences that highlight key sectors, services, and issues shaping the Washington area.

Leadership Washington participants spent January 14th gaining insight into the businesses and industries that drive Washington’s local economy during the Business and Industry Day.The full-day highlighted a wide range of local organizations, offering participants an inside look at industries spanning media, professional services, manufacturing, skilled trades, telecommunications, and construction supplies. 

Site visits included Jones Eden Funeral Home, KCII Radio, Engineered Building Design, Bazooka-Farmstar, Sunset Diesel, Swaffer Welding, KCTC, and Washington Lumber. Through guided tours and conversations with business leaders, participants learned how these employers support local jobs, foster innovation, and contribute to the overall growth and vitality of the Washington community. The day emphasized the critical role local businesses play in strengthening the area’s economic foundation.

While touring KCII, Michael Zahs said, “I have been working with Leadership Washington, from the very first class. I always did the first day and the last day. And I always wondered what people did in between. This year they had a space, so I get to see what people do in between having me at the beginning and the end of Leadership.”

Business and Industry Day was hosted by Larry Northaway of Engineered Building Design and Casey Peck of KCTC.