Q2 Ahead of the Curve: Councils Update

By: Keiyania Campbell, Director, Councils, MEMA. Original Equipment Suppliers

Professional development at its best moves beyond content and becomes an experience.

That was the tone, and the outcome of the MEMA Original EquipmentSuppliers ELC & GM Joint Professional Development Day Meeting, now in its third year of collaboration. It reflects a sustained commitment to partnership, deeper understanding, and the intentional shaping of the next generation of leaders across OEM and supplier communities.

The day opened with an energizing and thought-provoking session led by Deborah Wong, Head of Executive Leadership Development, GM on Empowerment and Influence. Participants explored the distinct roles of Leader, Manager, Mentor, and Coach—gaining clarity on how to navigate each effectively. Through guided reflection and intentional questioning, the session challenged leaders to elevate how they show up in real time.

A standout moment followed with an interactive gallery walk, where participants engaged visually with the collective insights from each table exercise. It transformed learning into a shared experience, reinforcing the idea that when ideas are seen, discussed, and built upon together, they have a greater impact.

The program also featured a dynamic Peer-to-Peer Fireside Chat with Dan Lavery, Program Manager at ADAC and ELC 25–26 Board of Governors, alongside Natalia Koch, GM Professional Development Program Alumni. Their candid dialogue on leadership, empathy, and influence brought a real-world perspective to the forefront—grounded in experience, authenticity, and practical application.

And then, Reginald Humphrey, Director, Volunteerism & Workplace Partnership, GM. He took us on a journey through a powerful Leadership From My Perspective with honesty, humor, and a level of vulnerability that truly moved the room. He reminded us all:

Leadership is a mindset; it moves hearts, it’s not a position. 

The collective feedback was clear: A fantastic learning experience thatexceeded expectations.

When people show up fully, and the experience is intentionally designed, you unlock something far greater than a meeting. You unlock the true power of gathering.

This is the essence of the MEMA Original Suppliers Emerging Leadership Council (ELC): a space where leaders grow, connections deepen, and impact is cultivated with purpose.

Interested in Nominating an Emerging Leader in Your Organization? 

The ELC 2027–2028 will accept nominations in September.  If you’re ready to invest in your leadership journey or to develop high-potential talent within your organization, we invite you to learn more by reaching out to Keiyania Campbell, Director, Councils, @kcampbell@mema.org, or Simone Vaughn, Manager, Council Engagement,  @svaughn@mema.org, to explore how to join this transformative two-year professional development experience.