Montana Grown Leadership Program: Switchbacks

Upcoming Switchback Programs

What is the Montana Grown Leadership Academy (MGLA)? 

Montana local governments face challenges with the preparation of the next generation of leaders.  Recruiting and retaining talented staff members is difficult. The MSU Local Government Center is committed to providing a learning environment that is supportive, inclusive, and respectful of all employees and meets the needs of local government leaders in Montana.

What are the Switchbacks? 

Switchbacks (Middle Management) Training enhances the investment made in employees by teaching knowledge and skills essential for advanced supervision and preparation for the next level of management.The Switchback program will provide a variety of learning modalities including interactive discussion, scenario-based case studies, small group reflection, and more.

This highly interactive program is built upon The Leadership Challenge framework, paried with additional management skill-building topics. 

Who should participate? 

The Switchback program is designed to benefit both established and emerging leaders. Experienced department heads and new supervisors alike with gain new insights, skills, and tools to manage and lead their teams for effectively. The Switchback program with provide participants with the skills and knowledge they need to advance their own leadership development and better serve their community.

What will participants gain?

The Switchbacks are designed to provide number of benefits for both employees and the community. By investing in the professional development of its employees, a local government can improve its performance, increase employee satisfaction, reduce turnover, and improve customer service.

Participants can expect to:

• Participate in a 360 assessment of their leadership practices and behaviors
• Better understand their own leadership and management styles
• Enhance their skills and tools to envision, inspire, and implement long-term visions
• Build on their ability to develop a cohesive, highly effective team
• Develop strategic communication skills that are essential for supervisors to be successful

What is the time commitment? 

The program runs on a two-day workshop, six-week break, two-day workshop model. Reservations are first come, first serve. If your city or county is interested learning more about hosting a Switchback program please contact Ashley Kent ([email protected]) for more information.

Upcoming Switchback Programs

We are currently booking Switchback program for FY 2024-2025 and FY 2025-2026. Please contact Ashley Kent ([email protected]) at your earliest convenvience to reserve your preferred dates. 

Participant Information

Program Preparation and Pre-work

1) Confirm with your local human resources representative that you are registered for the program

2) Complete the pre-work assignments and bring copies with you to the workshops

• • My Personal Leadership Best
  • My Current Leadership Challenge
  • Characteristics of an Admired Leader Survey

3) Completion of the Real Colors assessment and workshop is a prerequisite for this program. If you have not completed Real Colors, please contact your local human resources professional and the MSU LGC to make necessary arrangements.