Three employees from Easton Utilities have been selected to participate in the prestigious Shore Leadership programs, continuing the organization’s long-standing commitment to developing strong, community-focused leaders across Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
Joel Adams, Supervisor of IT Customer Experience, and Kenny Marks, Water and Wastewater Operations Manager, have been chosen for the 2026 Shore Leadership program. In addition, Kurt Fuchs of External Affairs will participate in Shore Leadership 2.0, an advanced leadership series designed for program alumni.
Easton Utilities has supported Shore Leadership since its inception, sponsoring program sessions and consistently investing in employee participation. This ongoing partnership reflects the organization’s dedication to fostering leadership skills that benefit both the company and the broader community.
“We’re proud to have Joel Adams selected for Shore Leadership,” states Fred Christie, CIO of Easton Utilities, “This program offers a valuable opportunity to grow as a leader, build meaningful regional connections, and bring new insights back to our team and the customers we serve.”
The Shore Leadership program includes nine immersive sessions held across Talbot, Caroline, Dorchester, Queen Anne’s, Worcester, and Wicomico counties. Throughout the program, participants engage directly with regional leaders and gain insight into key Eastern Shore industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, education, and workforce development. “My experience with Shore Leadership was incredibly impactful, broadening my perspective and strengthened my connection to the region. I’m excited to see Kenny Marks chosen to take part and bring that experience back to enhance the work we do every day,” says Doug Abbott, Director of Engineering and Water/Wastewater.
Both the core and 2.0 programs are facilitated by Joe Thomas, Ph.D., of the United States Naval Academy’s Stockdale Center for Ethical Leadership, and Celeste Raver, Ph.D., of the Senate Joint Office of Training and Development. The Shore Leadership 2.0 program features five sessions focused on advanced topics including the psychology of leadership, cross-cultural competency, empathy, and personal well-being for leaders.
“Having gone through Shore Leadership myself,” states Kelly Simonsen, Director of Culture and Communications, “I know firsthand the lasting connections made through the 2.0 program. Kurt Fuchs is a strong representative of our organization, and this experience will further develop and strengthen the impact he makes within our community.”
Participation in Shore Leadership equips emerging and established leaders with the knowledge, connections, and perspective needed to help strengthen the Eastern Shore’s economic and civic landscape.