From left, Michael Dupont, Daniel Doyle, and Stephen Buckbee kicked off the start of a nine-month journey for the Delta Force Class of 2026. The trio forms BDD Training Associates, which has been part of the leadership program since its inception in 2003. (Photo courtesy of Vickie Micheau)

The Delta Force Class of 2026 officially launched its leadership journey on Thursday, uniting a dynamic group of individuals committed to strengthening their leadership skills and deepening their understanding of their community.

The program began with Leadership Day, marking the start of a nine-month immersive experience designed to connect participants with the people, businesses, and organizations that drive Delta County’s economy. Throughout the program year, students will gain firsthand insight from local manufacturers, entrepreneurs, educators, public safety officials, judges, healthcare leaders, media professionals and environmental advocates.

From exploring the foundations of economic development to understanding the challenges facing workforce attraction and retention, Delta Force participants will engage in thoughtful discussions about leadership, service and collaboration. A key focus of the program remains the role of servant leadership and how investing time and talent back into the community contributes to long-term economic vitality.

During their first day, students had the opportunity to introduce themselves, learn about their leadership and communication styles, and begin building connections that will last well beyond the program. Many reflected on their excitement to learn more about Delta County’s assets, challenges and opportunities, while others expressed appreciation for the chance to step outside their day-to-day roles and see the broader picture of how our waterfront community operates behind the scenes.

The Delta Force Class of 2026 will culminate its experience with a graduation celebration at the Island Resort & Casino during the Delta County Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner on Oct. 1.

The following students are members of the Delta Force Class of 2026:

John Bauman, Michigan Department of Natural Resources – Fisheries Division

Rachel Branstrom, Daily Press

Caroline Carlson, Bay College

Bethany Cody, Embers Credit Union

Melissa Darling, Embers Credit Union

Jennifer Forshey, Bay College

Emily Franks, Public Health Delta & Menominee Counties

Debi Haley, Haley Station

Chelsea Hart, Bonifas Arts Center

Mandy Iverson, VanAire, Inc.

Amanda Johnson, VanAire, Inc.

Julie Johnson, Embers Credit Union

Heather Kemink, First Bank

Whittney Kerridge, OSF St. Francis Hospital

Mickenzie Koon, Edward Jones – Prins Wealth Management

Taylor LaFave, Billerud

Amber Lauscher, VanAire, Inc.

Kristi Lordson, Peninsula Federal Credit Union

Kim Mahoney, OSF St. Francis Hospital

Amber Malmstead, Great Lakes First Federal Credit Union

Kylee Owens, Leigh’s Garden Winery and Tasting Room

Kacie Peippo, Peninsula Federal Credit Union

Traci Pinar, Peninsula Federal Credit Union

Jordan Scheidmantel, Anderson, Tackman & Company

PLC Krystianna Smith, Great Lakes First Federal Credit Union

Joey Stankowicz, Magnuson Grand Pioneer Inn and Suites

Jennifer Workman, Peninsula Federal Credit Union

Created and sponsored by the Delta County Chamber of Commerce, Delta Force has been a premier leadership program since 2003, and it holds a very special place in my heart. Each year, I have the privilege of watching committed students walk into the room as participants and walk out months later as stronger, more confident leaders. Seeing the connections they build, the pride they develop for our community, and the enthusiasm they carry forward into their workplaces is incredibly meaningful. Delta Force isn’t just a program; it’s an investment in people, in relationships, and in the future of Delta County.