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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.

AML Courses + On-Demand Catalog

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.

Below are our current On-Demand Catalog courses:

AML Certification Programs

AML Certifications showcase your expertise in municipal leadership and commitment to professional development.

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

Financial Management Certificate

A category dedicated to the most important aspect of municipal leadership: financial management. Requires six hours of training in budgeting and finance as it relates to the North Carolina Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act. Completion of training for this certificate also meets requirements under G.S. 160A-148 for city managers.

(DIRECT) Certificate

DIRECT strengthens communities by identifying and addressing racial disparities at the local level. DIRECT stands for Diversity, Inclusion & Racial Equity for Cities & Towns.

Requires six hours of training in the DIRECT curriculum

Commit to Civility Certificate

Commit to Civility is a multi-step program that showcases a city or town council's pledge to civil conduct and leadership. It engages and challenges municipal officials to embrace civility throughout the course of their work within their communities.

Requires the completion of the Commit to Civility On-Demand course and a commitment to the civility pledge. Municipalities also adopt and submit a Resolution.