This month, Leadership Colorado participants ended their year together with an insightful program focused on the retail industry, hosted by American Furniture Warehouse (AFW) and CEO Jake Jabs. Jake shared the inspiring history of AFW, along with key lessons in business and entrepreneurship. He highlighted the importance of empowering employees to take ownership of their work, fostering clear communication across all departments, and the strategy of “buying better to sell better.” He also shared daily practices that help him stay mentally sharp and agile.
Jake led participants on an exclusive tour of AFW’s headquarters, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how the company optimizes efficiency and saves costs by managing many operations in-house. Stops included the sign shop, TV/photography studio, repair and assembly shops, truck mechanic shop, warehouse (where he emphasized AFW’s commitment to sustainability and recycling), and the showroom floor, where he revealed some of the secrets behind AFW’s competitive pricing. It was an inspiring experience for all, with valuable takeaways from both Jake Jabs and AFW President Jackie Brookshire, applicable to businesses of any size!
To celebrate their graduation, the Leadership Colorado cohort gathered for a lively bowling party at Boondocks where they were joined by Loren Furman and other Colorado Chamber colleagues. The participants took time to reflect on their year of learning and growth, sharing insights on industries that had reshaped their perspectives, as well as the leadership lessons that resonated most deeply. Participants highlighted several key experiences from the program, including exclusive behind-the-scenes tours, gaining a deeper understanding of complex business regulations, and learning invaluable leadership principles from some of Colorado’s most influential executives. These insights were considered transformative and are expected to have a lasting impact on both their personal and professional growth.
This exceptional group of 31 emerging leaders, representing 13 different industries, spent nine months immersed in learning from experts across sectors such as hospitality, culture, manufacturing, agriculture, gaming, oil and gas, tourism, aviation, aerospace, higher education, and retail. Along the way, they had the privilege of hearing from 16 CEOs, 46 senior leadership team members, a mayor, and five legislators.
After this program, participants said:
“Seeing the innovation to cut costs and better serve customers was incredible.”
“Every single one of our programs was extremely valuable and well worth the time. AFW really stood out because of their leadership, values, unique industry challenges, and super passionate workforce.”
“I thoroughly enjoyed the experience at AFW. Hearing directly from the founder and CEO about the principles and work ethic that have made his business a leader in the industry truly inspired me. It prompted deep reflection on my own drive, goals, and the legacy I want to leave behind.”
A special thanks to our host, American Furniture Warehouse, and to all the program hosts throughout this incredible journey!