The NCBC LEAD Academy Spotlight is a new feature of the IMPACT that allows NCBC members across the nation to get to know participants of the FIRST-EVER LEAD Academy!
Name: Debbie Chavez
Title: Courtroom Deputy
Court: United States Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District of California
What was the time commitment for the program? How did you integrate that into your work-life balance?
The LEAD Academy time allotment was approximately 2 ½ months from the start date to the workshop at the Chicago NCBC Conference. I was able to work at my own pace between job duties, lunch breaks and after work. Each session was about 1-2 hours of material review. I then spent time with my mentor discussing each topic. Since I was able to work independently, I found it easy to complete the program in a timely manner.
Mentorship was a big component of the LEAD Academy. Can you share with us a bit about how the mentoring relationship has impacted you?
During the process, I have built a long-lasting relationship with my mentor, Seth Benevento, Executive Director of ABLE Industries. I have been able to contact him at any point to discuss matters in which I feel I need guidance. Having an experienced person to consult with is beneficial to achieving my goals.
As part of this program, participants completed a pre-conference workshop at the 2019 NCBC Conference in Chicago. Can you tell us a bit about what that was like?
The pre-conference workshop at the NCBC Conference in Chicago was a great experience. We had workshops on each topic which helped to solidify the materials and reinforce what we had learned. The presenters were very knowledgeable in their field and were very engaging. I enjoyed meeting other participants and sharing ideas.
How has your participation in the LEAD Academy impacted your career?
I immediately used the knowledge that I received through the strengths training. It has helped me to be a better trainer and communicator. I plan to continue to use these skills to build strong working relationships.
Are there any additional thoughts you'd like to share with us?
Anyone who is interested in furthering their career in the Court should participate in the LEAD Academy. It was an experience that I consider to be a building block to the future.
Name: Debbie Chavez
Title: Courtroom Deputy
Court: United States Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District of California
What was the time commitment for the program? How did you integrate that into your work-life balance?
The LEAD Academy time allotment was approximately 2 ½ months from the start date to the workshop at the Chicago NCBC Conference. I was able to work at my own pace between job duties, lunch breaks and after work. Each session was about 1-2 hours of material review. I then spent time with my mentor discussing each topic. Since I was able to work independently, I found it easy to complete the program in a timely manner.
Mentorship was a big component of the LEAD Academy. Can you share with us a bit about how the mentoring relationship has impacted you?
During the process, I have built a long-lasting relationship with my mentor, Seth Benevento, Executive Director of ABLE Industries. I have been able to contact him at any point to discuss matters in which I feel I need guidance. Having an experienced person to consult with is beneficial to achieving my goals.
As part of this program, participants completed a pre-conference workshop at the 2019 NCBC Conference in Chicago. Can you tell us a bit about what that was like?
The pre-conference workshop at the NCBC Conference in Chicago was a great experience. We had workshops on each topic which helped to solidify the materials and reinforce what we had learned. The presenters were very knowledgeable in their field and were very engaging. I enjoyed meeting other participants and sharing ideas.
How has your participation in the LEAD Academy impacted your career?
I immediately used the knowledge that I received through the strengths training. It has helped me to be a better trainer and communicator. I plan to continue to use these skills to build strong working relationships.
Are there any additional thoughts you'd like to share with us?
Anyone who is interested in furthering their career in the Court should participate in the LEAD Academy. It was an experience that I consider to be a building block to the future.