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Young Professionals of Chattanooga Continues to Support Young Leaders


Despite a pandemic we've all felt the impacts of, the Young Professionals of Chattanooga (YPC) moves full force ahead, creating opportunities for local young business leaders to continue growing. 

During the month of June, YPC powers two major initiatives. 

The first is the Chamber’s first virtual YP Summit June 3. Focusing on professional development, industry leaders will join us in energizing breakout sessions and powerful panel discussions. Find more information on how to register and the Summit's schedule here.

“For so many of us, it feels like life has been put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Miles Huff, Senior Director of Talent Initiatives with the Chattanooga Chamber. “However, this doesn’t mean that professional development and networking opportunities should do the same. The Chattanooga Chamber is committed to the continued support of talent development, and providing opportunities for young professionals to engage with one another, even during social distancing.”

$10 YP Summit registration includes:

  • Live access to 9 sessions from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with local experts on topics, including how to know you're ready to start your own business, job search and interview tips, handling your finances and more 
  • Opportunity to ask questions live during sessions
  • A personalized login link to watch the virtual sessions any time you want, even if you can't attend live

“We believe there will be valuable lessons from our presenters to help young professionals better themselves both personally and professionally,” says Josh Cropp, Young Professionals of Chattanooga program chair. “Whether you are looking for skills to find your next job, trying to define your sales or marketing techniques, or would like to work on some areas causing you stress, there will be something for everyone.”


Next up for YPC? The deadline for YPC’s 2020-21 Protégé Chattanooga program is coming up on June 12. Protégé Chattanooga is a nine month team-based mentoring program in which early and mid-career professionals learn from seasoned local executives and each other.

“I was honored to be selected as a Protégé mentee,” says current class member Shawnice Beard. “I met amazing peers who became friends. The monthly sessions allowed us to connect and share early career pains. It was also great to see a diverse group of Chattanooga leaders and hear their stories as they offered their wisdom. Protégé allowed me to explore new opportunities and inspired me to get more involved in the community.”

Protégé offers two cohorts, day and evening, made up of 12 future leaders each. Each cohort meets twice a month. The program begins with an orientation in August 2020 and ends with graduation in May 2021. Applicants must be between the ages of 21 and 40, and are not required to be current YPC members.

The cost to participate in Protégé Chattanooga is $500, and some partial scholarships are available.

Find more information and apply here. Read about 2019-20 Protégé participants here.

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