"You're different, you're a CEO student." This was the theme of the morning when Tony Wielt stopped by to meet the Jefferson County CEO Class of 2025 during their first week. "You don't even know how cool this experience is going to be." Tony has been a longtime champion of the CEO program, serving as a mentor, original board member, and investor.

Tony imparted some wisdom upon the group as they embark on the CEO journey:

💡 You’re reputation as a CEO student precedes you thanks to those who went through the program before you

💡Be a sponge, soak it up

💡Don't blow it, show up

💡You are interviewing every day

💡You are who you hang with

💡How you act today will set the stage for how you will act down the road

💡Wear the CEO badge well, if you say I am a CEO student, that resonates with people

💡Learn how to be a friend

💡This is a relationship business, learn how to develop a relationship

💡When it gets tough, overcome it

Tony demonstrated the components of a good handshake: look me in the eye, introduce yourself and give a solid handshake. "When you finish the CEO experience you will be a different person. Are you ready to run through a wall yet?" This week has been full of so much valuable advice from key community leaders. These young entrepreneurs have been taking it all in and are better equipped for next week when we take our first business visit. Thank you Tony for continuing to invest your time and expertise into our program!