COOL LEADERS: Unlock Your Leadership Potential in the Frozen Food Industry!

Creating Opportunities for Outstanding Leaders (COOL) is your chance to join one of two dynamic leadership development programs designed exclusively for professionals within the frozen food industry. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your leadership skills or build new ones, this is your opportunity to step into your power and connect with other trailblazing leaders.

Last year, we successfully launched our COOL Women Program, and this year we are expanding. This year, we are offering two cohorts that will kick off in February!

The COOL LaunchPad is all about boosting your leadership mindset and skills to help you lead with purpose and intention. You will not only build professional confidence but also form lasting relationships with like-minded individuals within the frozen food industry. This immersive program is grounded in Essential Employability Skills and backed by cutting-edge neuroscience, personal effectiveness, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence tools and strategies.

Testimonials & Benefits of completing the program

“Participating in the COOL Women’s Leadership Training was an incredibly empowering experience. The program fostered a supportive environment where I felt encouraged to grow both personally and professionally. Each session was thoughtfully designed, blending practical leadership strategies with deep self-reflection exercises that helped me better understand my strengths, values, and unique leadership style.

The training enhanced my leadership capabilities such as effective communication, strategic thinking, and conflict resolution while also boosting my confidence in expressing my ideas and making bold decisions. One of the most impactful aspects of the program was the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with a diverse group of strong, inspiring women from across our industries. Their shared experiences, insights, and support created a powerful sense of community that I will carry with me moving forward.

This program exceeded my expectations in every way. I left feeling more self-assured, motivated, and well-equipped to embrace future leadership opportunities with confidence. I highly recommend this training to any woman looking to grow as a leader, advance her career, and make a lasting impact.”

 – Sunshine, Riviana Foods Inc.

Participant Benefits

  • Expand your professional network within AFFI
  • Participate in the COOL Book Club
  •  Receive a COOL identification ribbon at AFFI-CON and/or the Government Action Summit
  • Join off-site team-building events at AFFI-CON and/or the Government Action Summit
  • Company and COOL member recognition in the AFFI-CON printed directory
  • Gain access to education and engage in AFFI’s advocacy program on Capitol Hill
  • Celebrate and showcase your company’s involvement in COOL through AFFI’s social media channels

To register for one of our COOL Programs, please reach out to Haley Clark, Director of Business Development at AFFI, to learn more about both programs available.

Who is it for?

COOL WOMEN- All women – whether you’re just starting your career or looking to revitalize your leadership approach. You’ll gain practical tools and fresh perspectives to help you excel.

COOL LEADERS- Co-ed – Whether you’re early in your career or looking to revitalize your leadership approach, you’ll gain practical tools and fresh perspectives to help you grow and succeed.

What to expect from this high-impact 6-part series:

  • Professional Identity: Define your core values and craft a bold vision for your professional self.
  • Power & Accountability: Master the art of commitment and reliability through powerful mindset shifts.
  • Solution-Focused Thinking: Turn your brain into a problem-solving powerhouse for success.
  • Communication Mastery: Elevate your communication skills to drive both personal and professional success.
  • Boundaries for Success: Learn how to create, enforce, and thrive with healthy boundaries.
  • Everyday Leadership: Lead with confidence no matter your role, by understanding how thoughts, emotions, and actions create results.

COOL Women LaunchPad Lead Hybrid Series

In-Person Sessions (2)

The journey kicks off Friday, February 20th at AFFI-CON in San Diego, CA, with a special in-person session in the afternoon, where you will meet the instructor and connect with your fellow participants. Four virtual sessions will follow with the Launchpad Coaches, and we will wrap up with an in-person session and celebration at AFFI’s Government Action Summit in Washington, DC on May 5. You will even have the chance to showcase your new skills to Congress on behalf of your company and the frozen food industry.

  • Session One: February 20, 2026 — Two hours, time 10AM-12PM PST
      Live at AFFI-CON | San Diego
  • Session Six: May 5, 2026 — Two hours, time TBA
      Live at Government Action Summit | Washington, D.C.

Virtual Sessions (4)

All sessions held via Zoom Empower Classroom

  • Time: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM PST – Every other Friday
    • Session Two: March 6, 2026
    • Session Three: March 20, 2026
    • Session Four: April 10, 2026
    • Session Five: April 24, 2026

COOL Leaders LaunchPad Lead Hybrid Series

In-Person Sessions (1)

The COOL Leaders journey begins on Wednesday, February 25 with five virtual sessions led by expert coaches to help you grow as a leader. The program wraps up with an in-person session and graduation at the Government Action Summit in Washington, D.C. on May 5, where you’ll have the chance to represent your company and the frozen food industry on Capitol Hill.

  • Session Six: May 5, 2026 — Two hours, time TBA
      Live at Government Action Summit | Washington, D.C.

Virtual Sessions (5) 

  • Time: 11:00 AM- 12:30 PM PST – Every other Wednesday 
  • Session One: February 25, 2026
  • Session Two: March 11, 2026
  • Session Three: March 25, 2026
  • Session Four: April 8, 2026
  • Session Five: April 22, 2026

Meet Your Leadership Coaches

Tiffany Grimes, Founder & CEO of Empower Coaching and Training, brings over 26 years of expertise in workforce development, professional coaching, organizational development, and leadership.
Kat Renee, with 17 years of leadership experience in healthcare architecture and professional coaching, is a Certified Professional Coach, Trauma-Informed Coach, and mindfulness teacher.

Are you ready to elevate your career, connect with inspiring women, and lead with intention? Join COOL Women and be a part of something transformative!

Cost

$450 for registration plus travel/lodging expenses for any in-person meetings.

Generously Sponsored By:

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