CLC Workforce Solutions announces 2026 leadership and management series – Brainerd Dispatch

BRAINERD — Central Lakes College Workforce Solutions announced the return of its professional development series, Leadership and Management for the 22nd Century.

The four-part series begins in January 2026 and is designed to help current and emerging leaders strengthen their ability to drive positive change within their organizations.

Leadership and Management for the 22nd Century is a hands-on, cohort-style program that combines practical skill-building with meaningful reflection and discussion. Each session focuses on a different aspect of effective leadership, helping participants grow their capacity to lead with confident and clarity.

The 2026 sessions include:

Session 1: Leading with Impact — The Art of Communication and Conflict Management, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Jan. 16, CLC Brainerd Campus, Room E208

Session 2: Cultivate and Connect — Crafting Company Culture and Employee Engagement, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Jan. 30, CLC Brainerd Campus, Room E203

Session 3: Sustainable Success — The Road to Change and Continuous Improvement, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Feb. 13, CLC Brainerd Campus, Room E203

Session 4: Summit Session — Culmination and Determination, 8:30-10:30 a.m., Feb. 27, CLC Brainerd Campus, Room E203

Each participant will complete a CliftonStrengths for Leaders assessment, leadership development plan, employee engagement plan, and change roadmap, ensuring the experience leads to actionable growth and measurable outcomes.

The series will be instructed by Katie Heppner, regional director of the North Central Small Business Development Center at Central Lakes College. Heppner brings years of experience in leadership development, team performance, and organizational growth.

“Now more than ever, our workforce needs adaptive, empathetic, and forward-thinking leaders,” Heppner said in a news release. “This series equips participants with both the mindset and the management skills to lead effectively in today’s fast-changing environment.”

Early Bird pricing is $400 per participant through Dec. 1. After that date, registration is $500 per participant. To register visit:

. Questions about the workshop may be directed to CLC Workforce Solutions at 218-855-8118 or

[email protected]

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