FUEL Essential Leadership Program

A Leadership Experience For FUEL Michigan

Online Program: July 15–November 30, 2026 | $700 per attendee

FUEL Michigan members save $500! ($1,200 $700)

 

In partnership with FUEL Michigan, CUES is offering a dedicated cohort of the Essential Leadership Program for emerging credit union leaders in Michigan. This exclusive group is designed for professionals who want to strengthen their leadership skills, grow their influence, and connect with a network of peers equally committed to growth.

CUES Essential Leadership Program is a holistic, inclusive five-month program that helps you build the communication skills, emotional intelligence, and executive presence needed to lead with confidence. You'll gain practical tools to support your development, expand your impact, and prepare for what's next.

 

Join the FUEL Michigan Cohort

Who This Program Is Designed For

Ideal participants include:

  • FUEL Michigan members and young professionals

  • First-time managers and supervisors

  • High-potential team members preparing for leadership roles

  • Branch managers, operations leads, and cross-functional contributors

 

Designed to help you grow into expanded responsibilities, this program builds a strong foundation for long-term leadership success. You’ll gain the skills, confidence, and perspective to support your career growth and prepare for future opportunities within your credit union.

Need a “Convince Your Boss” letter? 

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Don't just take our word for it—see what a recent participant had to say:

Casey Clark
Casey Clark
Advia Credit Union
"The CUES Essential Leadership Program was a transformative experience. The program helped me become more self-aware and empathetic, equipping me to handle challenges with clarity and build stronger relationships."

You Provide the Participants, We’ll Take Care of the Rest! 

CUES Essential Leadership Program is a fully virtual, five-month experience that blends structured learning with Executive Coaching and application.

Each participant receives:

  • Three core leadership courses
    Foundations of Leadership • Emotional Intelligence • Executive Presence

  • Small-group virtual coaching led by leadership experts

  • Mini 360° feedback and leadership assessments

  • An Individual Development Plan (IDP) aligned to role expectations

  • Peer learning with leaders from other credit unions across The CU Movement

 

Participants build skills they can apply immediately, improving communication, confidence, and team effectiveness.

 

Register Now

 

Want to share this program with an executive at your credit union? Download our one-page overview letter here.

  • 94%

    Essential Leadership Program graduates recommend the program.

  • 87%

    Of participants report improved communication and collaboration.

  • 70%+

    Apply skills to boost morale, resolve conflict, and lead through change.

Foundations of Leadership

  • Explore authentic leadership techniques and cultivate confidence in leading.
  • Course topics include leadership styles, influence, communication, change management, coaching, team development, goal setting, and conflict resolution.

The Power of Executive Presence

  • Uncover the holistic skills needed to establish a positive and influential presence.
  • Course topics include personal appearance/branding, mindset, strategic vision, and effective communication.

The Emotionally Intelligent Leader

  • Develop skills to manage relationships effectively and create a positive work environment.
  • Course topics include self-management, self-awareness, social awareness, and relationship management.

Applying Foundations of Leadership

  • This facilitated discussion will explore the concept of leadership and highlight best practices for becoming an effective leader.

Integrating Executive Presence

  • We’ll come together to review the components of executive presence and discuss best practices for building your confidence and leadership authenticity.

Embracing Emotional Intelligence

  • In this session we’ll discuss how understanding and managing your emotions can help you communicate with and relate to others.

Individual Development Plan Refinement

  • Finalize your individual development plan based on course learnings and with help from the group.

This cohort of the CUES Essential Leadership Program is designed for FUEL Michigan high-potential credit union leaders.

Pricing:  $700 per attendee

Enrollment: This exclusive FUEL Michigan cohort is available to future leaders.

 

Register Now for The FUEL Michigan Cohort

What type of leader is this program best suited for?

This program is designed for emerging credit union leaders in Michigan who are ready to grow into bigger responsibilities. It’s ideal for young professionals, first‑time managers, supervisors, branch leaders, and other high‑potential employees preparing for leadership roles.
 

How much time should I expect to commit?

You can expect to invest about 4–6 hours per month over five months in self‑paced learning and virtual coaching, so you can grow your leadership skills without disrupting your day‑to‑day work.
 

Is this program entirely virtual?

Yes. All learning and coaching happen online, so you can fully participate from anywhere in Michigan with no travel or time away from your credit union. 

 

Can I enroll individually?

Yes. This FUEL Michigan cohort is an exclusive group for emerging leaders, and you can enroll through the program’s registration form. If you’re selected or nominated through FUEL Michigan, completing the form will secure your place in the cohort.
 

How does payment work?

The cost is $700 per attendee for the FUEL Michigan cohort. Your payment is due before the program starts. 
 

Can the program be customized for my credit union?

This cohort is designed for FUEL Michigan credit union leaders. For larger groups or ongoing leadership development, CUES can design custom programs, add coaching, or bundle with other solutions for your credit union.
 

What happens after the program?

You’ll finish with an Individual Development Plan and clear next steps to continue your growth. Many organizations advance graduates into the CUES Advanced Management Program or other leadership pathways to build on what they've learned.
 

When does the cohort meet?

The dedicated FUEL Michigan cohort runs July 15–November 30, 2026. This is an exclusive five‑month experience for emerging leaders connected through FUEL Michigan.
 

How do I secure my seat?

To join the FUEL Michigan cohort, complete the registration. CUES will confirm your enrollment and guide you through the next steps to prepare you for the kickoff of the program.