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John Zehentbauer

Superintendent, Mahoning County Career & Technical Center,
Leadership Mahoning Valley Class of 2003

1. What motivated you to apply, and what were your expectations?

I wanted to better understand the Mahoning Valley beyond the education sector and connect with leaders across different industries. Going in, I expected strong networking opportunities, but I also hoped to gain a broader perspective on how everything in the region is connected.

2. What had the biggest impact on you?

The biggest impact was seeing how much collaboration really matters. It reinforced that no one organization can move the Valley forward alone. It takes alignment across business, education, government and nonprofits.

3. What is a lasting lesson or moment from your experience?

The biggest lesson for me was that relationships drive progress. Trust and connections are what actually make things happen. I still have many friends and co-workers from LMV.

4. How did the program shape your view of the Valley?

It shifted my mindset to focus more on opportunity and potential. The Valley has a lot of strengths, and when people work together, there’s a real chance to build something special. As someone from Columbiana County, it helped broaden my understanding of the region as a whole.

5. How did LMV contribute to your leadership growth?

It helped me become more collaborative and outward-facing. I think more about how our work at MCCTC connects to the broader region and workforce needs.

6. What is the value of the relationships you built?

They are very valuable. Many of those relationships still play a role in my work today, especially when it comes to partnerships and regional initiatives. This cannot be understated.

7. Did the program influence your community involvement?

Yes, it encouraged me to be more engaged beyond my immediate role and to look for ways to contribute to broader community and workforce efforts. I have so many connections throughout the Valley based on my time and involvement in LMV

8. Why is LMV important?

It brings people together who might not otherwise connect and helps create a shared understanding of the region’s challenges and opportunities. It is so important to me and to our organization that we aim to send someone to the program every year.

9. What advice would you give to potential applicants?

I’d say go for it. You’ll gain perspective, build meaningful relationships, and come away with a stronger connection to the Valley.

10. How does LMV strengthen the community?

It builds a network of leaders who are aligned and willing to work together, which is critical for solving bigger regional issues. It makes you more aware of the importance of the community as a whole, not just your business.

11. What are your hopes for LMV moving forward?

I’d like to see it continue to grow and bring in a diverse group of leaders, especially with a focus on future workforce and industry trends. I hope that it continues to find funding and to continue to grow the people of the Valley. 

12. What issues or opportunities should LMV explore?

Workforce development, talent retention, housing, infrastructure, and emerging technologies like AI and advanced manufacturing are all important areas. 

13. What role should alumni play?

Alumni can stay engaged, mentor others, and continue collaborating to turn ideas into real impact across the region. They can and should be mentors.

A Legacy of Leadership in the Mahoning Valley

Over the past 40 years, more than 1,400 alumni have completed the Leadership Mahoning Valley program. These graduates don’t just return to their workplaces with new insights — they return to their communities with a renewed sense of purpose, connection and responsibility. We are happy to present the stories of our Leadership Mahoning Valley graduates through this Alumni Spotlight Series.

Participation in Leadership Mahoning Valley has a lasting impact, fostering growth, strengthening communities, and driving long-term social change. Alumni of Leadership Mahoning Valley have gone on to:

• Serve on nonprofit and civic boards

• Lead companies, agencies and grassroots initiatives

• Run for and hold public office

Launch programs and partnerships that address critical community needs

Their influence is woven into the very fabric of the Mahoning Valley – helping to guide decisions, drive progress, and champion the values of equity, inclusion, and
opportunity.

Leadership Mahoning Valley creates more than educated citizens – it cultivates changemakers. The impact of the program continues long after graduation day, as alumni step forward to lead with purpose, passion, and a deep understanding of our region’s challenges and opportunities.

Leadership Mahoning Valley alumni remain engaged in their communities, continuing to offer guidance, mentorship and service to future generations. 

This creates a sustainable cycle of leadership where new leaders are continually nurtured, ensuring the long-term vitality of community programs.

Applications for the LMV Class of 2027 are Now Open

Leadership Mahoning Valley is now accepting applications for the Class of 2027 which will begin this September. Applications are due Wednesday, July 1.

This immersive, nine-month program connects participants to the people, organizations and issues shaping the Mahoning Valley. 

Through engaging speakers, site visits, tours and hands-on experiences, participants gain a deeper understanding of key community sectors, including history and heritage, government and justice, health and human services, business and economic development, education, housing, and quality of life.

Participants also complete a DiSC© Assessment to strengthen self-awareness and enhance leadership effectiveness, building skills in communication, collaboration and productivity.

Leadership Mahoning Valley seeks a diverse class representing a broad cross-section of industries and experiences. Ideal candidates have a track record of involvement, leadership potential and a willingness to actively contribute to a shared learning environment.

Applications and full program details are available at www.leadershipmahoningvalley.org. Contact JoAnn Stock, President, with questions or for more information at 330-519-0395 or at JoAnn@leadershipmahoningvalley.org.