Developing Utility Expertise and Leadership™ (DUEL™)–Cohort 3

Foundations course #2


Wednesday, September 30, 2026
at
11:30 AM (CDT)
to Thursday, October 1, 2026 at 1:00 PM (CDT)
20 Seats Remaining
Create an Account
20 Seats Remaining

This session is reserved for DUEL™ cohort 3
Pre-requisite: Foundations course #1 held on April 22-23, 2026

Building bridges: connecting plans, projects, and people

Gas utilities landscape
Gain a practical introduction to the structure, operations, and strategic considerations of municipal utilities and the natural gas markets—whether your community operates a gas utility or not. This course explores how gas utilities serve their communities, the regulatory and safety frameworks that guide their operations, the relationship between gas markets and electricity costs, and the evolving challenges and opportunities facing the sector.

From peer to leader
Navigate the unique challenges of transitioning from colleague to leader. This course practices strategies for building credibility, maintaining positive relationships, and leading effectively using a mentor/coach framework. Participants will explore how to establish authority, set expectations, and cultivate a high-performing team.

Leading with DiSC
Leaders will continue to gain insight into their own behavioral tendencies and learn to recognize and adapt to the styles of others. Through a mix of theory and hands-on exercises, leaders will improve communication, strengthen team dynamics, and develop strategies for leading diverse personalities.

Project management essentials for utility leaders
Master project management essentials for the utility sector. Build skills in navigating resource, timeline, budget, quality, and risk management. Learn strategies for both small operational projects and large capital initiatives, adapting your approach to project scope and complexity.

Schedule

February 11–11:30 am to 6:00 pm (lunch served at 11:30 am)
February 12–7:30 am to 1:00 pm (continental breakfast served at 7:30 am)


Additional in-person dates for this cohort

Foundations #3
January 20, 2027–11:30 am to 6:00 pm
January 21, 2027–7:30 am to 1:00 pm

Registering for foundations course #1 automatically enrolls participants in foundations #2 and #3 as well as their chosen electives.

Agenda

September 30
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM Lunch
12:00 PM - 6:00 PM Instruction
October 1
7:30 AM - 8:00 AM Continental breakfast
8:00 AM - 1:00 PM Instruction
20 Seats Remaining
Create an Account
20 Seats Remaining

Lodging

There are four hotels within a mile of MMUA.

Courtyard Minneapolis West
9980 Wayzata Blvd., St. Louis Park
952-769-8997
Special rate of $169 + tax (based on availability)
Book your group rate for MMUA

Minneapolis Marriott West
9960 Wayzata Blvd., St. Louis Park
952-544-4400

Hampton Inn & Suites Minneapolis West
10600 Wayzata Blvd., Minnetonka
952-955-8855

LaQuinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham
10420 Wayzata Blvd., Minnetonka
952-541-1094

For More Information:

Shelly Dau

Shelly Dau

Director of Organizational Development and Human Res..., Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association

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(763)746-0725