04/09/2026
We’re excited to celebrate the first cohort of our SkillUp Culpeper: Emerging Leaders Series! 👏
Over the last month 11 local employees completed this two-session training designed to support the transition from buddy to boss, covering topics like leading former peers, navigating workplace conflict, having difficult conversations, time management, and empowering others for success.
Between sessions, participants didn’t just learn—they took action. Some of the things they shared they've implemented:
- Was consistent and calm when having to let someone go. Didn't defend or debate the decision.
- Gave other operators clearer expectations.
- I used active listening in a meaningful way.
- Delegated more instead of handling the majority of things myself.
- Learned to be more clear and assertive.
- Didn't overexplain my decisions.
This program is part of SkillUp Culpeper, our new workforce training initiative under Work In Culpeper, created to support both employees and employers through practical, real-world skill building.
And we’re just getting started! Up next is our Thrive at Work Series, a 4-week cohort focused on essential workplace skills like communication, teamwork, problem solving, and professionalism.