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.

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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.

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FEATURED EVENT:

Municipal Finance: Comprehensive Fiscal Training for Local Governments

Strengthen your town’s financial foundations with this comprehensive, one-day training. Designed for elected officials, managers, finance directors, and all local government leaders, this course covers everything you need to know about municipal finance—from statutory requirements to best practices for fiscal health.

Join us on October 23 in Jacksonville or October 28 in Elizabeth City for this in-depth session.

CPA attendees may earn up to 6 CPE credits, and League members will earn 6 AML credits and the NCLM’s Financial Management Certification (Level I). The 6 hours also counts toward the 12 required for the Certificate of Municipal Achievement.

Jacksonville | Oct. 23, 2025 Elizabeth City | Oct. 28, 2025

Elected Official Training: 'Council Academy' and 'Rules of Procedure' | Online

Tuesday, December 16
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

See Event Info

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:

Ethics for Municipal Officials

This course will help municipal officials meet mandated requirements and provide an overview of the laws and regulations that govern ethical behavior in North Carolina.

See Course Details

Managing Road Closures

This 30-minute on-demand course will provide municipal officials and leaders with an awareness of requirements for closing streets and roads so that municipal risk is reduced and public safety is maintained.

See Course Details

Utility Management Best Practices

Learn why we should notice our utilities; the basics of how a drinking water and wastewater system function; the value of water; and the importance of utility viability.

See Course Details

AML Certificate Programs

Introduction. Fundamentals. Workshops.

See Course Catalog

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:

Employee Management Certificate

Managing employees effectively is one of the most essential—and often most challenging—responsibilities in municipal government. This program is designed to equip local government leaders and staff with a solid foundation in public sector human resources.

Get Started Today

Financial Management Certificate

A category dedicated to the most important aspect of municipal leadership: financial management.

Get Started Today

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.

Get Started Today

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

NCLM Learning & Development Team

Vickie Miller

Director of Learning & Development

Contact Vickie Miller

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