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Advancing Municipal Leaders

What is AML?

Advancing Municipal Leaders (AML) is a member-driven education program designed to provide continuous learning opportunities and help local elected officials be successful in public office.

Through AML, municipal officials will learn how to meet - and exceed - the requirements of their role in office. Courses include a comprehensive overview of North Carolina municipal government and are presented by the League and our partners who are dedicated to the learning and development of municipal officials.

Why AML?

All municipal officials – elected and staff  – should attend. From open meetings to municipal finances and topics in between, our courses are designed to bring officials up to speed on the constantly evolving world of municipal government. Current officials will also find incredible value in the up-to-date information on municipal operations and networking opportunities.

The Advancing Municipal Leaders Advisory Committee works to identify the ever-changing educational needs of municipal elected officials across North Carolina. Members meet periodically to help guide the AML program's efforts.

FEATURED EVENT:

AML Council Academy Classes

The Newly Elected Officials Training is designed to give you the tools, knowledge, and connections you need to lead effectively from day one. This interactive session covers essential topics for municipal governance, helping you understand your responsibilities, build relationships, and make informed decisions for your community.

This session provides two hours of credit toward the NCLM Advanced Municipal Leaders (AML) Certificate Program and connects you with a statewide network of elected officials and local government experts. You’ll earn credentials you can showcase on LinkedIn and share with your professional community, while gaining practical knowledge to guide new members as they step into leadership roles. Affordable, accessible, and designed for municipalities. AML meets you where you are in your professional development journey.

Event Details:

Kannapolis | Dec 3, 2025 Durham | Dec 10, 2025 Virtual Online | Dec 16, 2025

AML Course Calendar

See Course Catalog

AML On-Demand

Courses are provided virtually, on-demand, and in-person

Courses include a comprehensive overview of North Carolina municipal government and are presented by the League and our partners who are dedicated to the learning and development of municipal officials. Courses are primarily web-based and offer attendees both live webinar and on-demand opportunities. ​​Courses will directly address the League's Vision 2030 operating principles.

See On-Demand Courses Below:

AML Certificate Programs

Introduction. Fundamentals. Workshops.

Each learning category allows participants to move from introductory courses, through trainings on key fundamentals, and finally into hands-on intensive workshops. Select your level of involvement, based on your needs and the needs of your town.

For those new to office or looking for a refresher, we have webinars and 101-level trainings always ready for you. For those looking to take the next step, there are a selection of facilitated workshops each year on topics such as strategic planning, budgeting and performance management.

Affordable, accessible, and designed for municipalities—AML meets you where you are in your professional development journey.

See Certificate Programs Below:

Certificate of Municipal Achievement

Working toward achieving the Certificate of Municipal Achievement will provide you with the basics of municipal government and connect you to the resources and materials that will prepare you for your role. 

Requires 12 hours of AML credit

Certificate of Municipal Excellence

AML's second level of achievement builds upon your understanding of municipal government. While working toward the Certificate of Municipal Excellence, municipal leaders will gain an even deeper understanding of governing at the local level. 

Requires 25 hours of AML credit

Certificate of Municipal Dedication

Officials who achieve the Certificate of Municipal Dedication not only work to continue their own education, but also help newer officials begin their own journeys.

Requires 40 hours of AML credit*

*After obtaining the Certificate of Municipal Dedication, officials must complete six hours of continuing education each year to maintain the certificate