Code Leadership Program 2.0 Mentorship kicks off this fall
Published on September 22, 2026
Code Compliance has officially kicked off its second round of the Code Leadership Program: 2.0 Mentorship.
The program is designed to help emerging leaders build relationships with experienced managers, strengthen their professional skills and prepare for future advancement opportunities.
The first Code Leadership Program cohort proved they had what it takes, committing to a five-month, 10-session series focused on essential leadership skills, including emotional intelligence and time management. Now, the cohort is putting those skills into practice.
Through 2.0 Mentorship, mentees will work consistently with a manager or superintendent to strengthen their leadership skills and gain hands-on experience. They’ll complete a SWOT analysis, build better routines, practice leading by listening, improve their communication skills, learn about common time-management mistakes and more.
But it’s not all work and no play! The group will also take part in team-building activities and explore different parts of the City organization through visits to the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge, Log Cabin Village and Meacham International Airport. These experiences will give mentees a chance to see leadership from different perspectives while building connections along the way.
During the program’s Meet and Greet, Henry’s Animal Shelter Superintendent Melanie Pena shared her own experience as a member of the inaugural program and encouraged the new cohort to make the most of the opportunity.
“One of the biggest struggles was stepping away from my day-to-day routine, and this program helped me step back and realize that there are other things that are important, like making connections with other people and growing as a team.”
Pena also emphasized the value of investing in professional development. She’ll officially graduate from the inaugural program in October, just as the newest group gets settled into their own leadership journey.
Here’s to learning, growing, making connections and becoming the kind of leaders who bring others along with them!
To learn more about the program, you can contact Training Specialist Ana Sanchez-Brown ana.sanchez-brown@fortworthtexas.gov.