Program Details & FAQ

Session Logistics:

WMLP offers a mix of in-person and virtual sessions. Participants will be expected to attend the August and November sessions in-person. The September, October, and December sessions will take place virtually.

Who Should Apply:

This program is open to Michigan women with a demonstrated interest in serving as local government managers.

Program Cost:

We are proud of our commitment to keep this opportunity financially accessible. This five-month training is supported by the Michigan Municipal League along with a number of generous sponsors – and is provided cost-free to selected participants.

Application Requirements:

Complete application (online form) including supporting documents.

Application & Acceptance Timeline:

Stay tuned for 2023 program details.

Participation Expectation:

WMLP is a competitive program, with significantly more qualified applicants than spots available. For those accepted, the program incorporates practical topic education, personal leadership development, and interactive dialogue that rely on active participation for best results. For these reasons, participation in all five sessions is expected.

Program Details

Program Dates

Stay tuned for upcoming program dates!

Curriculum at a Glance
Tentative

IN-PERSON SESSION

August
8:30 am – 9:00 am Sign-In & Networking
9:00 am – 9:30 am Welcome & Introductions
9:30 am – 12:15 pm Eight Key Financial Areas Every Manager Should Know: Part I – Budgeting
Karen Lancaster
12:30 pm – 1:45 pm Luncheon
2:15 pm – 4:45 pm Leadership & Executive Development
Heidi Frye, UpWords, Inc.

VIRTUAL SESSION

Day 1
9:00 am – 9:30 am Welcome
9:30 am – 12:30 pm Eight Key Financial Areas Every Manager Should Know: Part II
Karen Lancaster

 

Day 2
9:00 am – 11:30 am Leadership & Executive Development
Heidi Frye, President, UpWords, Inc.
11:30 am – 12:30 pm Panel: Leadership & Success as a Woman Executive

VIRTUAL SESSION

Day 1
9:00 am – 12:30 pm Economic Development
Deb Stuart

 

Day 2
9:00 am – 11:30 am Leadership & Executive Development
Heidi Frye, President, UpWords, Inc.
11:30 am – 12:30 pm Panel Discussion

IN-PERSON SESSION

November
9:00 am – 10:00 am Local Government Roles & Responsibilities
Chris Johnson
10:00 am – 12:00 pm Council-Manager Relationships
Professional Organizations Supporting Managers: MME & ICMA
Panel Discussion
Adam Smith, City Manager, City of Grand Ledge
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Lunch
1:00 pm – 3:30 pm Leadership & Executive Development
Heidi Frye, UpWords, Inc.

VIRTUAL SESSION

Day 1
9:00 am – 12:30 pm Interviewing & Negotiation

 

Day 2
9:00 am – 11:30 am Mock Interviews
11:30 am – 12:30 pm Leadership Wrap-Up