Future Leaders in Motion
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Program Overview:
Over 13 months and approximately 60 hours, candidates will
- work with a mentor and build relationships with their FLM peers,
- participate in self-directed and (virtual) classroom learning,
- complete a series of projects designed to ensure understanding of key concepts to increase performance and the bottom line, and
- enhance natural leadership abilities in positive and productive ways.
Leadership is the art of executing a set of critical skills that encompasses influence, impact, and integrity. Here is a snapshot of what candidates will gain individually and as a team:
- Mindsets of Leaders: The FLM Program encourages a growth in self-awareness and emotional intelligence by utilizing D.I.S.C. and weaving in the results & language throughout the year
- Foundations of Leadership: Participants will grow a list of attributes all leaders need to understand. Topics will include developing trust, the value of reputation/rapport, and stewarding influence
- Developing a Leadership Toolkit: Participants will be equipped with tools to greatly enhance their influence and be challenged to identify their next steps of impact as a leader
- Mentoring and Coaching: Work closely with an industry mentor, participate in small group discussions, and receive personal guidance with one-on-one meetings by a professional career coach
- University of Innovative Distribution: Participate in this concentrated educational program focused on the unique needs of the wholesale distribution industry.
- Leadership Retreat. The Tom Kundinger Leadership Retreat is another way to deepen cohort connections, build on core leadership fundamentals with hands-on practice and coaching to apply immediately on the job.
Candidate Travel Dates
| Event | Dates | Location |
| 2026 Industry Summit (Candidates & Mentors) | October 5-7, 2026 | Portland, ME. |
|
2026 Leadership Retreat |
April 20-22, 2026 | Neenah, Wisconsin |
|
2027 University of Innovative Distribution |
To be determined | Indianapolis, IN |
|
2027 Industry Summit (Candidates & Mentors) |
To be determined | To be determined |
Program Costs
Members contributing a volunteer mentor: $5,100; cost without contributing a mentor: $5,600.
The program fee includes two consecutive registrations to the Industry Summit at the beginning and end of the program; (1) UID and (1) Leadership Retreat registration, one-on-one coaching sessions; and virtual presentations and workshops.
Note: The program fee does not include the cost of travel, accommodations, and incidental costs of travel to attend program segments. This will be the employer's responsibility.
2027 Future Leader in Motion (FLM) Applications Now Open
Why Apply?
Becoming part of the Future Leaders in Motion (FLM) program is a powerful step toward advancing your career and expanding your leadership potential. FLM connects emerging professionals across the fluid power industry with exceptional training, mentorship, and unique networking opportunities. Through hands-on workshops, personalized coaching, and real-world projects, you’ll develop the skills, confidence, and connections needed to lead your company—and the industry—into the future. If you’re ready to accelerate your growth, learn from the best, and join a community of forward-thinking peers, FLM is your launchpad. Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in yourself and make a lasting impact!
Time and Travel Commitment for Candidates
Participate in all pre-scheduled program calendar monthly 1.5 hour workshops; four day educational program held annually in March in Indianapolis, a two day Leadership Retreat, and three days to attend the Industry Summit over two consecutive years.
Why Become a Mentor in the FLM Program?
Mentoring in the Future Leaders in Motion (FLM) program is a unique opportunity to give back to the fluid power industry by guiding and inspiring its next generation of leaders. As a mentor, you’ll share your experience, expand your professional network, and help emerging talent navigate real-world challenges. The time you invest can have a lasting impact—both for your mentee and for the future of the industry. Join us in shaping strong, confident leaders and supporting the continued growth and innovation of fluid power. Your legacy starts here!
Time and Travel Commitment for Mentors
About 60-90 minutes a month dedicated for calls with your mentee; attend mentor training and meet with your mentee at the Industry Summits.
2025-2026 FLM Participants
Next workshop & Leadership in person retreat:
Business Ethics / Character with Peter Rea | April 16 at 3pm ET
Kundinger Foundation Leadership Retreat | April 20-22, 2026
- Hotel: Bridgewood Resort Hotel, Neenah, WI
- Monday: Kickoff dinner and networking at 6:30 pm CT (Monday, April 20)
- Travel: Fly into Appleton International (ATW), approximately 20 minutes from the hotel
- Shuttle: Complimentary; schedule with the hotel at least 24 hours in advance; operates 5:00 am–10:00 pm CT
- Agenda
Previous workshops:
- November 11, 2025 | Group Coaching with Donna Gilligan | view notes | view slides
- December 9, 2025 | Management vs Leadership with Beth Chitnis | view notes | view slides | recommended reading 1 | recommended reading.2
- January 13, 2026 | Brave Communication with Chris Houston | view slides | recommended reading
- February 10, 2026 | Communication 101 with Donna Gilligan | view slides
- March 24, 2026 | UID Conference debrief | Confernce held in Indianapolis, IN. on March 16-19, 2026
Please visit the schedule below for the full calendar of upcoming workshops.
FLM Alumni - coming soon
The Thomas J. Kundinger Foundation
Be part of building the next generation of leaders.
Tom Kundinger believed true leadership meant lifting others up. Through his work, generosity, and commitment to mentoring, he made a lasting impact on his family, community, and the fluid power industry. His journey with Kundinger, Inc. was defined by hard work and a dedication to creating opportunities for others. Although Tom passed away in June 2025, his vision continues through the Thomas J. Kundinger Foundation, established by his family to honor his legacy of mentorship, education, and service.
A Legacy of Leadership and Mentorship
Tom’s involvement with the Fluid Power Distributors Association (FPDA) reflected his commitment to helping others grow. He was instrumental in launching the FPDA Young Executives group, which paved the way for today’s Future Leaders in Motion (FLM) program—a 13-month mentorship and training initiative that equips rising professionals with the tools, confidence, and connections to thrive in the industry.
Honoring Tom’s Values
Tom believed in showing up for his family, his community, and his colleagues. He was a leader who worked side by side with his team, a family man who never missed a chance to cheer on his children and grandchildren, and a mentor who inspired countless professionals to pursue excellence. The Foundation honors those values by creating opportunities for others to succeed.
How Your Gift Makes a Difference
Your donation to the Thomas J. Kundinger Foundation directly supports the FLM Leadership Retreat, launching in Spring 2026. This retreat will bring future leaders together to:
- Honor legacy and learn from experience
- Build meaningful connections across the industry
- Share insights that inspire growth and collaboration
By contributing, you help ensure Tom’s vision comes to life—empowering the next generation of leaders and strengthening the future of our industry.
Join Us in Honoring Tom’s Legacy
Be part of building the next generation of leaders. Your generosity ensures Tom’s values of mentorship, education, and service continue to make a lasting impact.
Make your donation today and carry Tom’s legacy forward.
To learn more about Tom’s life:
