Anna Jankord was new to Midco and to the telecommunications industry when her leader encouraged her to join The WICT Network: Midwest. They also supported her in her decision to enroll in the Premier Management Development Series (PMDS), an annual program that is tailored to meet the needs of both emerging leaders with limited people management experience as well as more tenured seasoned leaders.

“I needed a boost of confidence in my leadership abilities and PMDS helped me find it!” says Jankord, Operations Training Program Manager at Midco. 

Since its inception in 2018, PMDS has helped 115 members of The WICT Network: Midwest improve their leadership and communication skills. Originally, the program was in-person, but had to transform to exclusively virtual at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“While we miss the personal connections from face-to-face interactions, the current virtual format allows for members from our entire footprint to participate and expand their personal network. It also lowers the overall investment for companies considering travel is no longer needed,” says Lisa Neuwirth, Immediate Past-President of The WICT Network: Midwest and coordinator for the program.

The change to a virtual format has allowed PMDS graduates to expand their network beyond their localized network. “I made lasting friendships with incredible women from across the region,” says Jankord.

The WICT Network: Midwest partners with Watermarq Consulting to guide our participants to build a stronger leadership skill set and improve self-awareness.

“I was beyond impressed with the quality of the PMDS program. Hilary and Todd are knowledgeable, passionate, and engaging. The topics covered were well-organized, thorough, relevant, and delivered in a way that was enjoyable and interactive,” says Noelle Tieszen, Senior CX Operations Manager at Midco.

The program consists of an initial one-on-one meeting with Watermarq, followed by nine 2.5 hour learning and development sessions over a six month time-frame.

“The program supports participants wherever they may be on their leadership journey. After going through the program, I enrolled my entire team of leaders to attend the following program—an investment that was well worth it!” says Tieszen.

Applications for the 2023 Premier Management Development Series are open now through March 24, 2023. Learn more about the program and apply today!