Building leadership skills through community action

Developing the next generation of Boeing leaders means more than classroom learning — it’s about real-world experience and community impact. That’s why Boeing Accelerated Leadership Programs (ALP) joined EarthCorps at Magnuson Park in Seattle for a day of hands-on environmental restoration. This unique opportunity allowed emerging leaders to build teamwork and problem-solving skills while contributing to the health of Puget Sound’s natural habitats.

The day included removing invasive plants and presenting a $75,000 Boeing Global Engagement Grant to EarthCorps to support the critical Qwuloolt estuary restoration project. By combining leadership development with meaningful service, the program reinforces Boeing’s commitment to both its people and the communities where they live and work.

Boeing leader Gina Breukelman highlighted the company’s dedication to regional water stewardship and community partnership. She said, “We care a lot about the water in this region, both as a business and in how our stormwater practices affect local waterways. We also want to help our community and become better stewards of our water systems. EarthCorps does great work engaging the community around environmental restoration.”

Driving the news:
ALP is a one-year, enterprise-wide program for directors and senior managers designed to accelerate aspiring and current executives towards roles of greater complexity and scale. Through immersive, hands-on leadership experiences outside the classroom, participants develop the capabilities needed to succeed at Boeing and beyond.

• More than 60 volunteers focused on pulling invasive blackberry bushes and completing other restoration tasks at Magnuson Park.

Boeing presented a $75,000 grant to EarthCorps to support estuary restoration efforts linked to the Everett area and Puget Sound.

How they described it:
Xander Barber, Boeing partnership office manager, emphasized the importance of community involvement:
 “Our executive leadership programs are about being part of a larger community. ALP intentionally partners with Boeing teams to participate in service projects that give back locally. The program reflects everything Boeing stands for, including active community engagement.”

Joanna Pickup, Boeing communications director and EarthCorps Board member reflected on her long history volunteering with EarthCorps: “This partnership between Boeing and EarthCorps aligns closely with our shared values, and is dedicated to developing the next generation of future leaders. Both organizations are mission-driven, and I’m proud to represent them today through this meaningful work.”

Partner perspective:
 Elizabeth White, EarthCorps Program Director, expressed gratitude for the ongoing collaboration:
 “Our partnership with Boeing has been long-standing. Many groups have contributed to caring for this land, and today’s volunteers have helped protect and enhance local waters and habitats for both people and wildlife.”

The big picture:
This volunteer day exemplifies how ALP integrates leadership skill development with civic engagement and long-term partnerships to create positive impact — both for Boeing’s future leaders and the Puget Sound environment.