Arlington, VA – [April xx, 2025] –The American Composites Manufacturers Association (ACMA) is proud to announce that its Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) is successfully underway, providing the next generation of industry leaders with valuable learning, networking, and professional development opportunities. The program, designed to cultivate leadership skills among composites professionals, is being sponsored by McCLARIN Composites and Champion Fiberglass.
The 2025 Emerging Leaders Program schedule includes a mix of virtual and in-person sessions, culminating in key networking and leadership events such as the ACMA Fly-In in Washington, DC, and CAMX in Orlando, FL:
- January 21 – Virtual Session #1: Kickoff and Introduction
- February 25 – Virtual Session #2: Ladder of Inference
- April 22 – Virtual Session #3: Understanding Another’s Perspective
- May 29 – Virtual Session #4: Commitments & Fly-In Preparation
- June 9-12 – Leadership Development Workshop & Fly-In in Washington, DC
- July 15 – Virtual Session #5: ELP Program Review & Commitments
- August 26 – Virtual Session #6: ACMA Volunteer Opportunities
- September 8-11 – Outgoing Class Celebration & Info Session at CAMX in Orlando, FL
The next in-person event for the Emerging Leaders Program will be the ACMA Composites Fly-In 2025, taking place June 9-12 in Washington, DC. This event provides participants with the opportunity to engage directly with policymakers, advocate for the composites industry, and develop essential leadership and communication skills. The Fly-In is a cornerstone of the program, allowing the 22 program participants to see firsthand how their voices can influence the future of the industry. Anyone interested in attending can register here: ACMA Composites Fly-In 2025 Registration.
McClarin Composites, a leading Tier 1 manufacturer in the composites industry for Mobility and the Built Environment, is supporting the program to foster a strong and sustainable pipeline of future leaders. Michael Gromacki, CEO of McCLARIN Composites, expressed his enthusiasm for the program:
“The inaugural class will meet virtually and in-person throughout the year to connect, network, and learn together and from one another. Investing in emerging leaders is essential for the continued growth and innovation of the composites industry. The active support, contribution, and engagement with the ACMA ELP initiative is naturally aligned with key principles of McCLARIN Culture.”
Through expert-led discussions, hands-on leadership training, and real-world advocacy experiences, the ACMA Emerging Leaders Program is equipping participants with the skills and connections needed to drive the composites industry forward.
For more information about the Emerging Leaders Program, please visit acmanet.org/ELP or contact ckinler@acmanet.org for more information.
About ACMA
The American Composites Manufacturers Association (ACMA) represents the complete North American supply chain for the fiber reinforced polymer (“FRP”) composites industry. We are manufacturers, material and equipment suppliers, distributors, academia and end users, dedicated to growing the composites market. We serve our members and the industry by promoting the competitive advantage and versatility of composite materials. ACMA offers composites industry educational resources through our Education Hub, CAMX, conferences, webinars, and Certified Composites Technician (CCT®) program. We develop standards and specifications that drive preference for the use of composites in place of traditional materials. We lead advocacy efforts via legislative and regulatory channels to achieve a more viable composites industry. Together, we make composites the sustainable material of preference. Visit acmanet.org for information on membership and initiatives.
About McClarin Composites
McCLARIN is a leading Tier One manufacturer of composites for Mobility and the Built Environment. Mobility segments include Rail, Heavy Truck, Bus, RV and Military. Built Environment segments include Aerial Lift/Platforms, Construction, Agriculture, Energy, and Infrastructure. The company is based in Hanover, PA and has additional manufacturing locations in Oklahoma City, OK and Wapato, WA. Learn more at mcclarincomposites.com