Recognizing the dynamic nature of coaching, Thomas Leonard — a financial planner turned professional coach — wanted to provide coaches with a way to guide the profession, allowing it to evolve alongside the needs of coaches, clients, and society.  

With the support of other leaders in the field, Thomas founded the International Coach Federation (ICF) in the United States to connect coaches worldwide, fostering peer support and growth of a credible profession. 

A timeline displayed on a wall, illustrating the early history and key milestones of the International Coaching Federation (ICF).

Tracing the roots of ICF—how a vision for professional coaching became a global movement. This image is from the 2005 conference in San Jose, California, USA.

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