What is the Montana Grown Leadership Academy (MGLA)?
An overview of the Local Government Center's Leadership Development Programming.
The Montana Grown Leadership Academy (MGLA) is a professional development program created by the MSU Extension Local Government Center to strengthen leadership capacity within Montana's local governments. MGLA was developed in response to a common challenge facing local government organizations: supervisors and emerging leaders are often expected to lead others with limited formal leadership training and support.
MGLA provides leadership development opportunities specifically designed for local government professionals. Its programs help participants build the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to effectively lead teams, navigate workplace challenges, and serve their communities. The academy emphasizes practical application, interactive learning, and topics directly relevant to the realities of local government work in Montana.
The academy offers two primary learning pathways:
Foundation Series courses are one-day, in-person trainings that cover core leadership and management topics such as communication, emotional intelligence, team development, accountability, human resources, and local government operations. Four rotating courses provide a comprehensive leadership curriculum over a two-year cycle.
Deep Dives provide an intensive learning experience focused on a single leadership topic. These programs combine a one-day in-person workshop with workplace application and a follow-up virtual session designed to support reflection, accountability, and continued growth. Topics include conflict management, leadership development, communication, and organizational effectiveness.
By investing in current and emerging leaders, MGLA helps local governments improve organizational performance, strengthen workplace culture, increase employee engagement, and enhance service to Montana communities. Through targeted, practical leadership development, the academy supports the cultivation of skilled supervisors and leaders who can effectively meet the evolving needs of local government across the state.