PRESQUE ISLE – The University of Maine at Presque Isle and Momentum Aroostook will collaborate as hosts for the Young Professionals Institute, a professional development course geared to emerging leaders.

The course is designed to help young professionals sharpen their skills and learn the basics of business success.

The pilot program will kick off March 5 and continue with four additional afternoon sessions in March and April. The sessions will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays, March 5, March 12, March 19, March 26 and April 9.

Momentum Aroostook recently celebrated signing on its first four major sponsors, including UMPI. A countywide networking group geared toward the 20- to 40-year-old population, it is part of a statewide initiative called REALIZE!Maine, which aims to help strengthen a network of young people in their professions and workplaces and to attract more young professionals to the state. The group has been working for approximately two years to shape the economic, social and recreational future of the area.

The Young Professionals Institute will be facilitated by UMPI President Don Zillman, members of Momentum Aroostook and several local business and community leaders. Students will learn about crucial aspects of professional success, including effective writing and oral presentations, teamwork and media relations.

Nathan Berry, the chairman of Momentum Aroostook, said the organization “couldn’t be more pleased” about the project.

“The Young Professionals Institute will provide the area’s young people with the skills they need to be successful, whether they work in government settings, for nonprofits or in traditional offices,” he said.

Zillman also expressed enthusiasm for the initiative.

“Our goal is to further connect and strengthen one of The County’s greatest assets – its young professional community,” he said.

Just 12 seats are available in the inaugural class. Young professionals interested in taking the course must submit their names for nomination or have their business employer nominate them. The nomination deadline is Feb. 25. Selections will be announced Feb. 26. A $50 registration fee is due by March 4.

For more information about the short course, which is not being offered for academic credit, contact the UMPI School of Business and International Studies at 768-9740 or e-mail linda.mclaughlin1@umpi.edu.

jlbdn@ainop.com

768-5681