EMPOWERING THE FUTURE LEADERS OF CALIFORNIA REALTORS®

Applications for the
Class of 2027 open
April 27, 2026-May 29, 2026

C.A.R. Leadership Academy provides monthly interactive training, group coaching, and continued learning assignments for 20 emerging REALTOR® leaders each year. The 12-month program equips participants to lead with integrity and influence policy, connecting them with a community committed to shaping the future of C.A.R. and the real estate profession.

Learn More

What's Required:

Online:

7 training sessions
5+ group coaching calls (9 are offered throughout the year)
Monthly capstone group meetings
Continued learning assignments

In Person:

Orientation at Leadership EDGE
3 training sessions at the Winter, Spring, and Fall C.A.R. Business Meetings

Our Approach

Orientation at EDGE

After admittance into the program, you'll attend C.A.R. Leadership EDGE in October, where you'll meet your cohort and trainer and attend the conference as an emerging state leader. EDGE will give you an essential foundation for your year ahead, giving you an up-close look at the different avenues of local and state leadership.

Training Sessions & Group Coaching

Monthly interactive training sessions help you evaluate your growth as a leader: where your strengths lie and what needs development. You'll be led through interactive exercises, individual coaching, and essential self-reflection. Group coaching sessions are 100% virtual, and mandatory training sessions are virtual except for the months of C.A.R. business meetings.

Capstone Project

You'll be sorted into small capstone groups to put your leadership and community-building skills into practice, developing a solution to a real-world problem in the industry. Your year will culminate with your final capstone presentations at the Fall Business Meetings, followed by a graduation ceremony.

Behind the Curtain of C.A.R.

C.A.R. leaders including staff and past presidents will open the curtain during each training session to demystify paths to leadership and provide insight on how the association works.

Am I Eligible?

Meet Your Training Specialist

Colleen Hauk of The Corporate Refinery

A powerful 12-month journey to grow your leadership potential in your association, your business, and your life.

Application Process

"The experience was practical, hands-on, and supported by peers equally committed to growth. I left with new tools, lifelong friends, stronger relationships, and a clearer sense of purpose as a leader."

Carol VanAusdal, Class of 2025

"Being part of the inaugural C.A.R. Leadership Academy has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. The program deepened my understanding of leadership at the local, state, and national levels and challenged me to think more broadly about my role as a REALTOR® and as an advocate for homeowners and communities across California."

Brandon Joaquin, Class of 2025

"The Academy stretches you, challenges you, and transforms your entire life."

Janet Sprissler, Class of 2025