STRIPES Leadership Program, the premier leadership development program for the equipment finance industry, successfully launched its 9th cohort on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, with its signature 3-Day Transformational Leadership Launch (Launch) in Philadelphia.
The Launch welcomed 22 participants representing 17 companies, including 14 repeat and 8 new organizations to the program. This diverse cohort consisting of leaders at all levels and representing a range of functional areas, embarked on an immersive experience designed to challenge conventional thinking and inspire transformational leadership within the equipment finance sector.
“It’s amazing that after just three days, there are 21 other people in this room I can call to give me a new perspective when I feel stuck,” Frank Fiumara, vice president, North America debt and recovery assets at Mitsubishi HC Capital America, said.
The 3-Day Launch serves as the foundation for a comprehensive six-month leadership journey which includes a curated curriculum that emphasizes transformational discovery, strategic and tactical business skills and applied learning. Participants engage in powerful leadership distinctions and hands-on exercises that build trust, self-awareness, collaboration and accountability while expanding their vision of what’s possible for themselves and their organizations.
“I discovered a lot in these three days in the Transformational Leadership Launch,” Ryan Bass, vice president of operations, sales and marketing enablement at Navitas Credit, said. “How to put all these things together and bring these skills in when I get back to my desk is where the magic is going to happen.”
During the Launch, participants also begin developing their Capstone Projects — bold initiatives designed to create meaningful, measurable results within their organizations. These projects serve as practical applications of leadership principles learned throughout the program.
“Our 22 participants are curious, energized and ready to take their leadership to the next level, and STRIPES couldn’t be more excited to support them,” Carolynn Caruso, senior vice president of sales and program leader for STRIPES Leadership Program, said.
Following the Launch, participants will continue their leadership journey through Business and Leadership Workshops, Executive Roundtable discussions, and group, peer and one-on-one coaching sessions all led by recognized industry executives and/or leadership experts. These experiences allow for opportunities to integrate the transformational work from the Launch and provide support to the participants as they execute their Capstone Projects with purpose for maximum impact.
STRIPES Leadership Program challenges and inspires best-in-class leaders within the equipment finance industry to think differently, act boldly and lead intentionally. The program develops visionary leaders who are shaping the future of the equipment finance industry through transformational leadership practices and measurable business impact.
For more information about becoming a STRIPES Leader or the STRIPES Leadership Program, contact carolynn.caruso@stripesleadership.com or visit www.stripesleadership.com.
