Applications are now open for the 2026 Guiding Leaders program, presented by Glidewell. According to the company, the six-month business and leadership development initiative will run from May through October at the Glidewell campus in Irvine, California, and is open to both men and women dentists.
The program, now in its sixth year, is designed for dentists at various career stages and combines advanced continuing education, one-on-one executive coaching, and peer engagement. According to Glidewell, participants are intended to develop business skills and leadership capabilities through structured coursework and collaborative experiences.
Dr. Oluyemni Workman of the 2025 cohort, shared the following testimonial: “Guiding Leaders has been one of the most transformative experiences of my career and life. It pushed me to grow beyond the clinical role and truly embrace my identity as a CEO and leader. The in-person sessions were powerful, but the greatest gift is the bonds and sisterhood (and brotherhood) I’ve built with other Guiding Leaders. Those relationships have become a source of strength, accountability, and inspiration.”
According to the company, more than 130 dentists have completed the program to date. Glidewell stated that alumni have gone on to pursue practice acquisitions, speaking opportunities, and roles in community leadership, and that graduates often serve as mentors to new participants.
“Expanding Guiding Leaders to welcome all dentists reflects our commitment to fostering leadership across the entire profession,” said Bobbie Norton, director of strategic partner relations at Glidewell. “Seeing dentists from all backgrounds collaborate and grow together has elevated the entire experience.”
The company reported that the 2026 curriculum will address topics including financial strategy, team leadership, practice management, executive presence, marketing, and personal branding. According to Glidewell, participants may earn up to 80 continuing education units upon completion of the program.
“The success we're witnessing, the growth we're seeing, and the lives being changed are beyond anything I could have imagined,” said Stephenie Goddard, program visionary and ceo of Glidewell. “I’m incredibly excited about where we're headed and grateful for every dentist who has been part of this journey.”
According to the company, dentists in the United States or Canada with five or more years of clinical experience are eligible to apply. Applications are due by March 6, and more information is available at guidingleaders.com/apply.
