Leadership Development

OLCE believes that leadership development is The Process by which individuals develop their capacity to influence the action of others and inspire change through positive stimuli. It merges concepts of the Social Change Model and the Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership. The Process is designed to elevate the college experience by helping students:

  • Explore self (interest, strengths, talents, passion, etc.);
  • Become actively engaged, learn the importance of service and citizenship;
  • Unleash their inner potential;
  • Identify and enhance their leadership skillset;
  • Effectively navigate systems and resources;
  • Strategically challenge processes; and prepare for a smooth transition into the world and tomorrow’s workforce.

Leaders EMERGE when they are self-aware, conscious of the motivations behind their actions; they are honest with themselves and others through consistent and authentic alignment of actions and values, and they use their knowledge of self to have more intentional commitment driven by passion.

Leaders ASCEND when they have the capacity to build effective relationships (based on trust and respect) and work cooperatively with others; they capitalize on the power of diverse talents and perspectives to find creative solutions for a common purpose; they inspire a shared vision and build spirited, capable teams with a high level of investment in the purpose; and they confront controversy with a civil disposition and foster a sense of appreciation and respect for multiple viewpoints among teams.

Leaders TRANSCEND when they utilize knowledge (formal and informal), values (personal and interpersonal), and skills to become more actively engaged in the community in which they belong; they allow the convergence of passion, purpose, and position to guide their involvement; they understand their rights and responsibilities as citizens and encourages those around them to do the same; they acknowledge the interdependence of members of the community and work towards positive change and sustained welfare of the society.

Leaders TRANSITION successfully into the next phase of their life more confident and prepared; they realize they are always in a transition (entering and exiting a phase); they are resourceful, make the most of every opportunity, and use every experience to prepare them for the next phase; and THEY GET A LEAD ON LIFE, SO LIFE, SITUATIONS AND CIRCUMSTANCES DON'T LEAD THEM.
OLCE offers assessments, trainings, workshops, expert panel discussions, activities, individual/group leadership consultations and coaching, certifications, etc. to guide students through each phase of The Process.

Student organizations, faculty, and staff can request a standard workshop or a workshop customized to meet the needs of your organization or to enhance the classroom experience.  Please allow at least two weeks for any request to be honored. Please contact the Office of Leadership and Civic Engagement at 336-334-7792 or olce@ncat.edu to request a workshop.

Student LEADS


The OLCE Leadership, Engagement, and Development Staff (LEADS) are a group of students trained to advance the professional and developmental culture of NCAT by creating programs and masterclasses that serve the needs of emerging leaders and engaged citizens.

LEADS is a two-year program commitment not inclusive of a shadow semester.  It is geared towards students who want to transcend as leaders.  Students participate in developmental activities and engage in the ideation, design, implementation, and facilitation of personal and professional peer development.  At the completion of the program, students earn the Transcending Leader distinction.  Students receive a framed TLC certificate, badge for LinkedIn, graduation medallion, and graduation cords. For more information on becoming a member of LEADS, please contact the Office of Leadership and Civic Engagement at 336-334-7792 or olce@ncat.edu.



To contact the Leadership Development Coordinator, please contact: 
The Office of Leadership and Civic Engagement
Student Center, Suite 348 | 336-334-7792 | olce@ncat.edu