Rice Leadership Development Program Application Period Ends Today

By Deborah Willenborg

USA Rice

The application period for the 2026 Rice Leadership Development Class ends today, September 5.

The Rice Leadership Development Program gives future leaders a comprehensive understanding of the rice industry, with an emphasis on personal development and communication skills. The class attends four one-week sessions over a two-year period that encompasses studies of all aspects of the rice industry through firsthand observations. They also attend seminars and workshops designed to strengthen leadership skills.

To be eligible for the Rice Leadership Development Program applicants must derive their primary livelihood as rice producers or from a rice industry-related profession or firm, including rice mills, rice product marketers, sales officials, suppliers, dryers, extension services, research facilities, etc. Participants from the industry related category must serve the rice industry in their primary job responsibility. Applicants must be between the ages of 25 - 45 at the time of application. 

Go here to apply for the program. For additional information, please contact Program Director Steve Linscombe.

All applicants will receive notification on whether they are selected as a finalist. All finalists must be available for personal interviews conducted by the Rice Leadership Selection Committee in conjunction with the USA Rice Outlook Conference in New Orleans, Louisiana, in early December 2025. The 2026 Rice Leadership Development Class will be announced at the Annual Awards Luncheon on December 8.

The Rice Leadership Development Program is funded by grants from American Commodity Company, John Deere Company, RiceTec, and Supreme Rice to The Rice Foundation. USA Rice develops and manages the program on behalf of The Rice Foundation.