Proconex and MEA —Transformational Leadership Development Partnership

Introduction

Mid-market companies often face the challenge of developing strong leadership due to limited internal training resources. Proconex, a leading provider of Process Automation Control Systems, Valves and Control Devices, and related technologies in the Mid-Atlantic region, recognized this challenge and sought a strategic partner to enhance its leadership development. For the past three years, Proconex has collaborated with the MidAtlantic Employers’ Association (MEA) to cultivate a robust learning culture. Through frontline manager training, one-on-one coaching, and an intensive 15-month leadership program, MEA has played a pivotal role in transforming Proconex into a “learning and development machine.”

The Challenge

Proconex’s leadership team understood that sustaining growth and technical excellence required a strong pipeline of future leaders. However, as a mid-market company, it lacked the dedicated internal resources to develop comprehensive leadership programs. The Senior Leadership Team envisioned a company where learning and development were ingrained in the corporate culture, ensuring long-term success through a well-trained and motivated workforce.

The Solution: Partnership with MEA

To bridge this gap, Proconex partnered with MEA to implement a multi-tiered leadership development strategy:

Frontline Manager and Supervisor Training

MEA provided structured training programs for frontline managers, equipping them with essential leadership skills to drive performance and engagement.

These programs focused on communication, conflict resolution, coaching skills, and team management.

One-on-One Coaching Services

Proconex leaders engaged with MEA’s expert coaches for personalized development.

Coaching sessions helped individuals refine their leadership styles, address challenges, and improve decision-making capabilities.

One-on-One Coaching Services

A 15-month, data-driven leadership development initiative informed by The Predictive Index (PI).

Participants underwent 360-degree reviews, providing a comprehensive assessment of their leadership impact.

A combination of individual and group coaching sessions ensured continuous development and application of learned skills.

The program incorporated in-class learning sessions focused on key leadership competencies, team dynamics, and strategic thinking.

The capstone project required participants to develop solutions for real business challenges, which were presented to the Senior Leadership Team. Projects that aligned with organizational priorities were implemented, leading to measurable business improvements.

The Results

The partnership between Proconex and MEA has yielded significant benefits:

Stronger Leadership Pipeline

The program has successfully prepared emerging leaders, ensuring continuity and strategic growth.

Enhanced Leadership Collaboration

Leaders who attended the program together were more driven to collaborate and problem solve outside of training, leading to a more unified and connected leadership team.

Enhanced Organizational Collaboration using PI

PI behavioral data has enabled leaders to better understand themselves, their colleagues, and their teams, fostering a more cohesive work environment.

Increased Employee Engagement

Employees feel valued and empowered, leading to higher retention and productivity.

Tangible Business Impact

Capstone projects connected to organizational initiatives have driven real-world business improvements, reinforcing the program's ROI.

Conclusion

By leveraging MEA’s expertise, Proconex has built a scalable and impactful leadership development framework. For mid-market companies facing similar challenges, partnering with MEA provides the training infrastructure needed to cultivate future leaders and drive business success. Proconex’s journey exemplifies how investing in leadership development creates a culture of growth, innovation, and long-term organizational excellence.

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