MCMA Launches Mentorship Program to Strengthen Connections and Support Future Leaders
As local government professionals across Minnesota navigate career transitions, leadership development, and an evolving workforce, the Minnesota City/County Management Association (MCMA) is launching a new initiative designed to help members learn from one another and build meaningful professional relationships.
For former MCMA President Jackie Schulze, the idea grew from a simple conversation.
"I was talking with our finance director, and she mentioned she was meeting with her mentee through the Minnesota Government Finance Officers Association mentorship program," Schulze said. "It got me thinking—why don't we have something like this for MCMA?"
As MCMA's Board of Directors worked through the organization's strategic planning process, the idea gained momentum. Schulze heard from colleagues who saw value in having a trusted advisor outside of their direct supervisory chain.
"Sometimes you want someone to talk through a challenge with who isn't your manager," she said. "Whether you're considering a career move, navigating a difficult situation, or simply looking for another perspective, having that connection can be incredibly valuable."
Supporting MCMA's Strategic Goals
The mentorship program aligns closely with several priorities in MCMA's strategic plan, including advancing professional development, increasing member engagement, promoting the profession, supporting future leaders, and strengthening member support networks.
By creating intentional connections between members, the program aims to help participants develop leadership skills, expand their professional networks, and gain insights from others who have faced similar challenges.
"We hear all the time about the importance of networking and member support," Schulze said. "This program creates those connections and gives members someone they can turn to when they need advice or just want to talk through something."
Designed for Every Career Stage
One of the program's defining features is its flexibility.
While many mentorship programs focus primarily on early-career professionals, MCMA's program is designed to benefit members at all stages of their careers.
"There isn't one specific type of person this program is for," Schulze said. "We want people to sign up for what they need right now."
Members who are unsure whether they should apply as a mentor or mentee are encouraged to submit applications for either — or both. A task force will thoughtfully review applications and make pairings based on individual goals, experience levels, interests, and preferences.
Building Meaningful Connections
Creating strong mentor-mentee matches has been a major focus of the program's development.
Applications ask participants about their career goals, professional interests, backgrounds, and preferences to help ensure successful pairings. The task force responsible for matching participants includes leaders with diverse experiences and perspectives from across the profession.
"We really want people to be comfortable with who they're paired with," Schulze said. "The goal is to create strong connections that can develop into meaningful professional relationships."
The program also encourages participants to expand their networks beyond existing relationships.
"Our goal isn't to pair you with your best friend," Schulze said. "It's to help you meet someone new and build a relationship with someone you may not have otherwise connected with."
Because the program is open to members throughout Minnesota, many mentoring relationships will likely span geographic regions. While in-person meetings are encouraged when possible, participants can connect virtually throughout the year and take advantage of opportunities to meet at MCMA events.
Preparing the Next Generation of Leaders
As local governments continue to experience retirements and leadership transitions, Schulze believes mentorship can play an important role in preparing future city and county leaders.
She points to the confidence and encouragement that often comes from hearing an experienced professional recognize someone's readiness for leadership.
"Sometimes it takes someone else telling you that you're ready," she said. "A mentor can help identify strengths, provide honest feedback, and help someone understand what skills they need to continue developing."
By fostering those conversations, the program can help members feel more confident stepping into new opportunities and leadership positions.
Looking Beyond the First Year
Although the formal program will run through the fall and spring, organizers hope many relationships continue long after the official mentorship period ends.
Success, Schulze said, won't simply be measured by participation numbers.
Instead, she'll be looking for evidence that relationships continue to grow, participants return year after year, and former mentees eventually become mentors themselves.
For members considering whether to participate, Schulze offers simple advice.
"Throw your name in. Whether you're looking for guidance or wondering if you have enough experience to mentor someone else, apply,” Schulze said. “We all have something to learn, and we all have something to share."
Learn more about the program and submit your application by Friday, June 19.