When I first discovered Schneider Electric’s Cross-Functional Leadership Development Program (LDP), I saw more than just a job – I saw a launchpad. As a recent college graduate searching for a place to grow, explore, and contribute meaningfully, the program stood out for its blend of structured learning, rotational experience, and community support. What I didn’t expect was how deeply transformative the journey would be – personally and professionally.
Why LDP
Schneider Electric’s Cross-Functional Leadership Development Program (LDP) is a three-year rotational program in different business units. It is one of Schneider’s many early-career development programs. LDPs focus on cultivating self-motivated innovators who drive impact by embracing challenges with an agile mindset, fostering a diversity of thought, and bringing new perspectives to our organization.
I joined Schneider Electric after graduating from the University of Miami’s Honors College with a degree in Computer Science and Psychology, along with a minor in Mathematics. What immediately stood out to me was the strong sense of community and opportunity to explore different parts of the business through rotational experience. Being a first-generation college graduate, I also found the structure, support, and cohort-based model of the LDP incredibly valuable.
My LDP journey
Throughout my three years in the LDP, I embraced a variety of roles that honed my project management, enablement skills and broadened my perspective. In my first year, I worked as a Sales Enablement Specialist within Customer Transformation, supporting field service engineers and creating marketing materials for a new premium support offer. When the initiative encountered significant operational challenges, I worked to untangle logistics, coordinate backend systems, and clarify next steps for the teams involved. That experience taught me how to lead through uncertainty and prioritize cross-functional alignment, all while keeping the customer experience at the center.
In my second year, I sought a more technical experience as an AI Product Manager, where I managed AI products and created an AI Product Showcase to enhance visibility of existing use-cases. I learned firsthand what it takes to navigate the change management process needed to introduce AI tools into complex organizations.
In my final rotation, I supported the culture transformation initiative for one of our business units in the US and shadowed senior leaders as they drove their new business strategies. Under the mentorship of my manager, Charlandra Watson, I gained a deeper understanding of coaching, leadership alignment, and organizational influence. I supported the launch of a training effort, delivered both in person and virtually over two months, and contributed to laying the foundation for lasting cultural and strategic growth for an already incredible business unit.
Impactful projects and professional growth
One of the most meaningful projects I contributed to during my time in the program was an energy equity initiative inspired by Schneider Electric’s work in Kenya. Thanks to the leadership of Sam Childress, Marco Astua and Patsy Stephanie Nieto, the project secured funding to expand impact to maternal health clinics in Guatemala.
Building on that momentum, my team and I chose to advance this work through our annual Action Learning Project. Action Learning Projects (ALP) provide LDPs with the opportunity to influence and engage with high-impact projects from all across Schneider Electric.
Together, my team and I refined the approach to serve mothers in Guatemala. It was a unique and transformative experience where I learned alongside some of the most passionate people, I’ve had the pleasure of working with. Furthermore, supporting the project management process and contributing to the development of an RFP helped me grow as a strategic thinker and collaborator.
Leveraging networks and mentorship
I have always loved connecting through conversation, whether it is about society, corporate culture, politics, or pop culture. Some of the most valuable lessons I have learned have come from casual chats, honest debates, and shared reflections. Through my network, I have had the opportunity to engage deeply, exchange ideas, and build relationships that continue to shape my career.
A special shoutout goes to my LDP peers, who have been one of the most impactful parts of my journey. Our cohort brought together a wide range of perspectives and experiences, and we supported one another through every challenge and milestone. I have learned so much from them and cannot wait to see how each of them continues to grow within the organization. The LDP network has been one of the greatest gifts of this experience.
I am also incredibly grateful for the women at Schneider Electric and those I have met through Women in Schneider Electric (WISE) and Society of Women Engineers (SWE). WISE and SWE are employee resource networks (ERNs) with the goal of fostering female success and community. These SE communities help to advance your career, make meaningful connections, and inspire the next generation of female leaders. Allies are welcome and any employee can participate.
Their support and insight have inspired me in more ways than I can count. Being in a community with such thoughtful and driven women has shown me the power of lifting one another up and building something stronger together.
Advice for early career talent
If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the past three years, it’s that your career isn’t a race. It’s a relationship you build, shape, and nurture over time. Like any relationship, it requires patience, attention, and reflection. You won’t have everything figured out right away, and that’s okay. What matters most is staying curious, being open to growth, and valuing yourself as much as the work you do.
Take time to document your journey: what you’re learning, what’s challenging you, what excites you. Those reflections become powerful markers of how far you’ve come. Your path won’t look like anyone else’s, and that’s what makes it meaningful. Make space for your own version of success.
Ready to begin your own journey?
If you’re looking for a company to jumpstart your career, join our talent community and search for roles in the Schneider Electric jobs portal.
About the author
Myrtle Valpoort, Strategy and Execution Specialist
Myrtle is a Strategy and Execution Specialist at Schneider Electric. She is based in Miami, Florida and likes to watch movies and design illustrations in her free time.
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