Potato LEAF opens applications for 2026 Leadership in the Field program at Gettysburg

The Potato Leadership, Education, and Advancement Foundation (Potato LEAF) has opened applications for the 2026 “Leadership in the Field: From Battlefield to Potato Field” program, scheduled for July 13–16, 2026, at Gettysburg National Military Park in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.
 

Experiential leadership learning at Gettysburg

Throughout the program, conducted in cooperation with the Gettysburg Foundation, participants explore the elements of the Battle of Gettysburg by visiting key areas of the battlefield. The experience highlights how ordinary people were called upon to do extraordinary things that shaped the outcome of the war.

The Battle of Gettysburg provides a powerful case study for leadership development. The complexity of the battle, the scale of the opposing armies, and the diversity of personalities among military leaders and civilians offer multiple perspectives on leadership. Lessons include character, communication, team building, humility, flexibility, resilience, strategic and visionary thinking, problem-solving under pressure, and accountability, all reinforced through experiential learning on-site.
 

Participant feedback from the 2025 program

Kali Bagley, General Manager at Downeys Potato Chips:

"This was truly an unforgettable experience that changed who I will be as a leader for the rest of my career and life. Since finishing the program, I have considered or actively used knowledge and teachings that I learned from the program nearly every single day, and my goal is to continue to do so that I may shape and improve my leadership style daily thanks to the takeaways from this program. Without a second thought, I would recommend anyone aspiring to be the best leader that they possibly can be to complete this program."

Tim Kunze, Director of Operations at Black Gold Farms:

"The program is by far one of the most engaging leadership programs I have attended. It’s surprising to see how a battle that took place over 160 years ago still resonates with the challenges we all face in our operations today."

Application details and eligibility

Applications are being accepted through March 6, 2026, and the program is open to anyone in the U.S. potato industry. Participants will be selected with preference given to individuals who have participated in leadership programs and are currently serving or have served in industry leadership roles.

The fee for selected participants is USD 2,100, which includes all programming by Licensed Battlefield Guides, most meals, and lodging at the Gettysburg Hotel in downtown Gettysburg. Travel costs are not included in the program fee.