The Resource Education and Agricultural Leadership program, or as it is known REAL Oregon, is an excellent opportunity for Oregon Women for Agriculture members to get leadership training, general business know-how and become part of a network of leaders within the natural resource community. I am a proud member of Class 1 and the program is now recruiting for Class 9. The class stretches over five months. Each multi day session takes place in a different location, and each has a different focus. You learn about the top natural resource industries in that area and what their issues are. Layered on top of that are the leadership skills, board training, political insights and media trainings which all make you into a well-rounded representative of Oregon’s natural resource industries and ready to become more actively engaged. In addition to that, what I found most powerful were the connections I made. You will get to know people from all over Oregon and have personal contacts in many different industries, businesses and agencies. It is truly an investment in yourself and will allow you to become more effective in whatever position you end up in.
The program costs $2,500 for each participant. For most people their employer pays for their tuition. If you are self-employed, it is a little harder. I definitely struggled justifying that expense, however, there are sponsorships available. OWA has $1,250 available to members who are participating and need help with tuition. When I went through, I asked companies we work with to help sponsor me, and my tuition was fully covered that way. There are also scholarships available through the program.
There are now a number of OWA members who have gone through the program, and I believe all of us have found it a valuable experience. I would highly encourage all to plan to attend at some point, so why not now? Here is a link to the application!
– Helle Ruddenklau
