Leadership Development Programs

ETD has provided support to hundreds of Minnesota state employees in their leadership development through our Emerging Leaders Institute (ELI), Senior Leaders 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. 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. Three groups of 36 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: Getting Work Done, Leading Others, Leading Self, Leading the Organization, Leading with DEAI
• Skills: Creative Thinking, Interpersonal, Leadership, Strategic Thinking

Senior Leaders Institute (SLI)

The Senior Leaders Institute (SLI) focuses on preparing more experienced managers and directors for higher administrative roles in leadership. 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: Getting Work Done, Leading Others, Leading Outside the Organization, Leading Self, Leading the Organization, Leading with DEAI
• 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 and inclusively, regardless of title. Topics include but may not be limited to inclusive leadership, process leadership, persuasive presentations, effective communication, orchestrating meetings, use of power and influence, and integration of your personal strengths into a leadership development plan.

• Competencies: Getting Work Done, Leading Others, Leading Self, Leading with DEAI
• Skills: Communication, Leadership, Team Building