The National Confectioners Association looks to facilitate the growth of young talent in the industry.

The National Confectioners Association (NCA) has announced the launch of its new Future Leadership Program. This program is a new initiative from the Association’s Young Professionals Network, designed to foster industry growth and career advancement.

Support, education, access and opportunity will be provided to five deserving future leaders (40 and under) in the confectionery industry through this program.

“A key element of NCA’s mission is to advance the confectionery industry, and the Future Leadership Program achieves that,” said NCA president and CEO John Downs. “This program will identify emerging young talent in our industry and facilitate an environment where they can learn from respected and experienced leaders within their profession.”

During the year-long program, Future Leaders will attend NCA’s State of the Industry Conference, Sweets & Snacks Expo and Washington Forum, all of which offer exceptional development opportunities through education and networking. In addition, program participants will engage in a formal mentorship with a well-respected industry professional selected for them by the YPN Committee.

Applications for the 2015-2016 class of Future Leaders are now being accepted. Employees of current NCA member companies aged 40 and under are encouraged to apply by Oct. 2, 2015. The five individuals chosen to participate will be notified in December.

“The Future Leadership Program is a unique opportunity for emerging leaders to learn and network from the most respected and influential leaders within the confectionery industry,” said Michael Flynn, co-chair of NCA’s Young Professionals Network committee and director of marketing and business development at Stribbons, Inc. “The YPN committee is proud to launch a program that has the potential to make a significant impact on the careers of young professionals in our industry.”