what this training covers

In this training, you and your team will build capability in two critical leadership skills:

• diagnosing complex challenges

• developing clear, actionable responses

You will practice these skills by applying them directly to a live challenge your team is facing

Common applications include:

• navigating a complex stakeholder situation

• addressing a team dynamic that is not improving

• clarifying priorities when demands compete

• preparing for a high-impact decision

How the Training Works

This is a structured two-session training series supported by a brief planning conversation.

Pre-Session: Planning Conversation

We begin with a short call with you to identify the focus issue and confirm the right participants. You will select up to five team members to join your for the two sessions.

Session 1: Diagnosing the Challenge (2.5 hours)

In the first session, you will learn and apply a structured approach to understanding complex leadership challenges.

You and your team will:

• Learn practical diagnostic frameworks for leadership challenges

• Apply those frameworks to a real issue in your park by:

  • distinguishing between surface symptoms and underlying causes

  • identifying key stakeholders and diagnosing their behavior

• Define targeted next steps to gather additional insight

Between Sessions: Homework

You may gather additional input, test assumptions, or observe key dynamics using the approach introduced in Session 1.

Session 2: Developing Actionable Responses (2.5 hours)

In the second session, you will focus on turning insight into action.

You and your team will:

• Refine your leadership diagnosis

• Learn a model for leadership moves

• Develop a clear set of leadership intiatives you will take forward

Who Should Participate

• You (Superintendent)

• Up to five key managers and leaders connected to the issue

The small-group format allows you to focus on a specific challenge and apply the training directly to your work.

What You’ll Leave With

You and your team will leave with:

• a practical method for diagnosing complex leadership challenges

• tools for distinguishing symptoms from underlying issues

• a structured approach to developing actionable responses

• experience applying these methods to a real situation

• greater confidence addressing similar challenges in the future

Format

Participants
You and up to 15 key managers and leaders at your park

Length
A full eight-hour training day, including morning and afternoon breaks and a lunch break 

Delivery
Typically delivered in person at your park

Virtual formats are also available when needed. 

This session is designed to function as professional development training for park staff. 

Typical Investment

To make planning simple, we offer clear pricing for the most common formats. 

Standard Theme Workshop (In Person)
$15,000 for a one-day training session based on one of the four workshop themes listed above. 

Custom-Designed Workshop (In Person)
$18,000 for a one-day training session tailored to the specific leadership challenges facing your park. 

Virtual Workshop
$12,000 for a one-day virtual training session delivered online. 

Travel expenses may apply for in-person workshops depending on park location. 

Our Experience with NPS

KONU has partnered with the National Park Service on leadership development programs for Superintendents across multiple regions. 

We have also worked directly with park teams through targeted team development sessions designed to strengthen alignment, engagement, and performance. 

Through this work, we have gained a deep appreciation for the realities of leading in the Park Service and the importance of strengthening leadership in ways that are practical, grounded, and mission-aligned. 

Schedule a Conversation

If you would like to explore hosting a one-day applied leadership training session for your park: