Highlights from the Code Council’s 2024 Chapter Leadership Academy

From April 5-7, the International Code Council hosted its 2024 Chapter Leadership Academy in Orlando, FL. This annual event is a cornerstone for Code Council chapter officers aiming to enhance their leadership skills, network with industry professionals and share best practices to boost the effectiveness of their chapters.

The mission of the Chapter Leadership Academy is to empower chapter leaders through education, networking and information sharing. This is supported by the Academy’s values of engagement, collaboration, knowledge and empowerment, creating an enriching environment for all participants.

2024 Chapter Leadership Academy Sessions

This year’s Academy featured several networking opportunities, insightful presentations from industry experts and a deep dive into the benefits of Code Council leadership.

One of the standout sessions, Leadership in Code Administration, was presented by Hon. Tim Ryan, a former leader of the Code Council, a past President of the Building Officials and Code Administrators, and a former Director of the National Institute of Building Sciences, appointed by the President of the United States.

Ryan brings a wealth of experience from his 40-year tenure with the City of Overland Park’s Building Safety Division, where he held roles ranging from field inspector to Code Administrator. Currently a moderator in the Code Council’s code development process and a member of the Code Council’s Code Correlation Committee, Tim’s extensive expertise is matched by his dynamic public speaking and instructional skills.

Ryan’s presentation covered critical leadership topics including:

• Knowing the Difference Between Management and Leadership: Understanding the unique roles and responsibilities of leaders versus managers 
• Knowing Your Trade: Best practices for effective building code administration 
• Understanding the Politics in Building Code Administration: Strategies for managing the political aspects of the industry 
• Generational Differences: Techniques for working effectively across different generations 
• Building Relationships: Key elements for fostering professional connections 
• Learning from Leadership Failures: Turning setbacks into valuable learning experiences 
• Courage in Leadership: The importance of taking risks in your role 
• Realities of Leadership: Practical insights into the day-to-day challenges and rewards of leadership roles

Ryan also touched on the Five Principles of Participative Management, emphasizing a collaborative and transparent approach, and he outlined the Six Essential Aspects of Thinking Politically in Leadership.

Chapter Leadership Academy Takeaways

Ryan’s presentation and other sessions, including Cecelia Muela’s From the Ground Up, proved invaluable, offering practical advice and inspirational insights for chapter leaders.

Participants left with actionable strategies for success, underscoring the importance of continual training, education and active participation in Code Council events, such as the Code Hearings and chapter meetings.

To view Ryan’s full presentation and others from this year’s Academy, click here.

For chapters in good standing, the Code Council offers a choice between complimentary registration to the Annual Conference or a fully covered trip to the Chapter Leadership Academy, including travel, accommodations and registration. To learn more and take advantage of this opportunity, click here.