Developing Concrete Leaders Program
Delivered by the Indiana University-Indianapolis Office of Community Engagement
Comprehensive 4-part Training Series
IRMCA is proud to introduce Developing Concrete Leaders, a comprehensive four-session training course designed to equip concrete professionals with the leadership skills necessary for success in the industry. Delivered in collaboration with Indiana University-Indianapolis' Office of Community Engagement and Indiana Constructors, Inc., this program provides practical insights and hands-on learning for participants to grow as leaders within their organizations.
Guided by expert instructors from IU-Indy, this program covers leadership fundamentals, decision-making, team dynamics, and real-world application, giving participants a solid foundation to excel in their roles. Each session focuses on a key leadership aspect, ensuring a well-rounded and immersive learning experience.
All sessions will meet at 8:00AM - 12:00PM ET, in the downtown Indianapolis office of ICI.
Indiana Constructors, Inc.
Office Conference Room
One N. Capitol Ave., Suite 1000
Indianapolis, IN 46204
PROGRAM SERIES FEE: $1300
Limited seats available: Only 12 remain

Program Schedule
Session 1: You Are a Leader, Part I
THU, 04/10/2025
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM ET
Leadership starts with self-awareness. This session introduces participants to personal leadership styles, emotional intelligence, and credibility-building as foundational leadership elements. Participants will assess their strengths and growth areas, gaining clarity on how to lead with confidence and purpose with instructor, Danni Cagnet.
Session 2: You Are a Leader, Part II
THU, 06/26/2025
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM ET
Building on Session 1, this session dives deeper into leadership behaviors, strategic decision-making, and navigating challenges. Participants will explore how to foster resilience, build trust within teams, and develop a clear vision for success. This session will be co-led by instructors, Charlotte Westerhouse-Renfrow and Ryan Outlaw.
Session 3: Leading Teams & Driving Innovation
THU, 08/28/2025
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM ET
Strong leaders create strong teams. This session focuses on team dynamics, effective communication, and conflict resolution. Participants will learn how to align team efforts with organizational goals, establish accountability, and promote a culture of innovation with instructors Barb Cutillo and Amrou Awaysheh.
Session 4: Leadership in Action
THU, 11/20/2025
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM ET
In this capstone session, participants will apply their leadership skills to a real-world case study. Working in teams, they will analyze challenges, develop strategies, and present solutions—reinforcing their learning and preparing them for practical leadership roles in their organizations. This final session of the series is co-led by instructors, Chris Smithhisler and Richard Bray.
Instructor Bios
- Danni Cagnet is a Senior Lecturer of Management at the Kelley School of Business, specializing in team dynamics, leadership, and people development.
- Charlotte Westerhouse-Renfrow is a scholar in residence at the Tobias Leadership Center and faculty chair of the Kelley Indianapolis Program, with expertise in business law and management.
- Ryan Outlaw is an Associate Professor of Management who focuses on organizational development, fostering trust, and building inclusive workplace cultures.
- Barb Cutillo is a Lecturer of Management who teaches leadership, strategic planning for growth, innovation, and communication.
- Amrou Awaysheh is an Associate Professor of Operations and Supply Chain Management with a focus on optimizing business processes.
- Chris Smithhisler is the Director of the Tobias Leadership Center, where he develops leadership programs that help individuals maximize their leadership potential.
- Richard Bray is a Partnership Manager at the Office of Community Engagement, working to build meaningful collaborations between organizations and communities.
