Leadership Development Programs
ETD has provided support to hundreds of Minnesota state employees in their leadership development through our Emerging Leaders Institute (ELI), Senior Leadership Institute (SLI), Strategic Effectiveness for Aspiring Leaders (SEAL) programs. Many of our alumni have experienced increased opportunities and career advancement as a direct result of the development and preparation acquired through our programs.
Participation in the ELI and SLI is by application only. Visit each course page for more information on application requirements and deadlines.
Emerging Leaders Institute (ELI)

The Emerging Leaders Institute (ELI) is a cohort-based leadership development program that prepares future leaders in Minnesota government. Over the course of seven months, participants experience instruction from topical experts, small group interaction, interviews with other leaders, and 360 feedback assessments designed to build self-awareness in a leadership context. Two groups of thirty-six participants embark each September on a journey that increases knowledge of public sector leadership, individual leadership effectiveness, and develops important skills through critical thinking, interviews, study, and reflection. Join the hundreds of ELI alumni that have increased their responsibilities and received promotions in state government as a result of completing this program.
- Competencies: Drives for Results, Establishes Stretch Goals, Innovates, Practices Self-Development
- Skills: Creative Thinking, Interpersonal, Leadership, Strategic Thinking
Senior Leadership Institute (SLI)

The Senior Leadership Institute (SLI) focuses on preparing more experienced managers and directors for higher administrative roles in leadership. The Senior Leadership Institute is delivered in partnership with the University of Minnesota Humphrey School of Public Affairs. The content fosters creativity and innovation in state government and builds leadership skills in a systems context. SLI equips leaders with the tools they need to positively impact the complexity of public issues in today’s challenging environment.
- Competencies: Champions Change, Develops Others, Drives for Results, Innovates
- Skills: Creative Thinking, Leadership, Strategic Thinking
Strategic Effectiveness for Aspiring Leaders (SEAL)
Strategic Effectiveness for Aspiring Leaders (SEAL) is ideal for state employees in non-management roles that aspire to become leaders in state government and wish to build skills that will move them towards this goal. Through defining the characteristics of a leader, participants will learn how they can lead more effectively, regardless of title. Topics include strategic problem solving, presenting to senior-level staff, effective communication, and integration of your personal strengths into a leadership development plan.- Competencies: Communicates Powerfully and Prolifically, Innovates, Practices Self-Development, Takes Initiative
- Skills: Communication, Leadership, Team Building