Forty early career scientists representing 27 countries gathered at Shodoshima Island, Kagawa, Japan for the 2018 iCACGP/IGAC Early Career Short Course (ECSC), which provided an opportunity to learn and discuss a variety of content varying from emerging scientific topics among the atmospheric chemistry community to exploring science-policy engagement. The main goal of the short course was to foster international networks and collaborations among the future leaders of atmospheric chemistry research. Investing in future leaders is a vital part of the IGAC mission to foster international atmospheric chemistry research towards a sustainable planet.