Professional Development
Greater Des Moines (DSM) offers a number of networking events, educational opportunities and leadership development courses for employees in the region to reach personal and professional goals with accessibility to CEOs and key leaders. These programs are designed to help employees hone skills and acquire the knowledge needed to excel. From interns to CEOs, boost your career through professional development and continuing education opportunities.
DSM Fellowship Program
The DSM Fellowship Program, produced by the Greater Des Moines Partnership, is a preeminent professional development initiative that attracts, develops and retains a diverse community of top-tier graduates. Fellows are exposed to opportunities that accelerate their professional track and grant lasting connections. For more information on the opportunity investor businesses have to enhance their workforce diversity, sponsor and support Fellows’ growth in their career in DSM, visit the DSM Fellowship Program page.
Top Five Series for Small Businesses
The Top Five series features presentations to inform, educate and inspire business owners in DSM. The events focus on a variety of timely topics that affect business owners and managers including legal, human resources, information technology, marketing, accounting and other pressing issues.
Be a Presenter
The Partnership welcomes proposals from qualified Affiliate Members to facilitate educational workshops about general business practices.
Contact Emily McLain, Regional Affiliates & Member Support Manager, to learn more about presentation opportunities.
Des Moines Area Community College Business Resources
DMACC Business Resources provides a range of skills training, talent development and business consulting including needs assessment, customized training, ongoing coaching and funding. Subscribe to the monthly upcoming events email to learn about upcoming opportunities.
Des Moines Area Community College Workforce Training Academy
Looking for a rewarding career, but in need of additional training? DMACC's Workforce Training Academy (WTA) empowers people to move toward a better paying job in industries that are in need of qualified employees. The program provides the opportunity to develop the background needed to step into a promising career, a livable wage and prospects for advancement.
Drake University's Executive Education
Drake University’s Executive Education programs offer top-notch leadership development programs for mid- to senior-level and emerging leaders. The apply-as-you-learn approach combines peer level support while focusing on individual strengths and challenges in leadership development.
Leading Others is a 12- month leadership program designed for mid- to senior-level leaders in roles charged with creating organizational change. Participants of Leading Others benefit from an executive coach that walks alongside them as they move through the experience.
Executive Influence is designed to allow leaders time to reflect, practice and enhance influence skills in a small group of high performers. Learn the art of persuasion, understand personal influence styles and the power of storytelling as participants build their executive presence.
Supervisory Leadership offers new and emerging leaders foundational skills and competencies required to successfully transition from team member to team leader in a cohort of peer level leaders.
Visit the Executive Education section on Drake's website to learn more or to register for class.
Evelyn K. Davis Career Coaching
From polishing resumes, assistance with online job applications to interviewing and getting connected with career opportunities, the Evelyn K. Davis provides support to job seekers through free career coaching services. Check out the events calendar for upcoming career development opportunities as well.
IowaWORKS Job Readiness Workshops
IowaWORKS workshops are a great tool to help guide any Iowan toward a new and promising career. The IowaWORKS job network regularly conducts presentations facilitated by staff, both in-person and virtually, covering topics such as resume writing, interviewing techniques, financial management, career planning, job search strategies and more.
The Jacobson Institute at Grand View University
The Jacobson Institute at Grand View University serves as a resource at the intersection of workforce, education, and business. Its mission is to equip learners with the skills and training necessary for success in an evolving workforce.
The Institute offers 50+ online Industry Verified Credentials (IVC's) and in-person programs tailored to various career stages and industries, focused on three pathways:
- Prepare: Designed for emerging professionals entering the workforce, these programs emphasize the development of a well-rounded skill set, blending technical expertise with interpersonal abilities to enhance employability.
- Produce: Aimed at current professionals seeking to elevate their performance and provide opportunities to advance skills and competencies in alignment with career goals.
- Pivot: For individuals contemplating career transitions, by offering pathways to acquire new skills and explore professional opportunities, supporting adaptability in a dynamic job market.
Through these programs, The Jacobson Institute addresses the educational and job training needs essential for a future-ready workforce, fostering continuous learning and development to meet the demands of tomorrow's work environment.
Young Professionals Connection
Young Professionals Connection (YPC) is a group of dynamic and talented young people who are committed to making DSM a better place. YPC offers countless ways to get involved in the DSM community and carry out a mission of promoting an environment that attracts and retains the next generation of young professionals. Learn more about YPC at ypcDSM.com.
Connect with Locals
Have questions about working and networking in DSM? Connect with a local DSM MVP. This program is designed to help people meet others in the region who share a common career path or interests.
Volunteer Opportunities
Donate your time and talents to make the region a better place. From councils to committees, help work to solve complex issues and activate opportunities like government policy, workforce attraction, Downtown events and more. Find out how to get involved with community events and causes.
Continuing Education
DSM is home to numerous higher education institutions. Check out the courses and programs they offer to professionals:
Regional Business Events
The Partnership's Affiliate Chambers of Commerce across the region host a variety of events focused on networking and professional development. For upcoming Chamber events across DSM, check out this calendar.