At the 2025 ICMA Annual Conference, more than 50 students joined ICMA staff and several local government leaders for the Economic Mobility Strategies for Next Gen Leaders Luncheon to expand their knowledge and prepare for future careers in local government. During the two-hour session, students learned about economic mobility and opportunity (EMO) and its importance in their careers as the next generation of public administrators. 

Through the EMO Student Engagement Program, 12 universities have engaged in an economic mobility-centered project with partner local governments across the United States. These student-led projects have explored such topics as broadband accessibility, housing affordability, food security, and more. Student luncheon attendees heard from one of the graduate student participants, Florida State University. The student group had the opportunity to present their research on an Earned Wage Access (EWA) program for a local municipality. For some local government employees, accessing a portion of their paycheck through an EWA program can help alleviate financial stress and reduce reliance on high-interest payday loans. This group of graduate students have adopted a consulting-focused approach to provide the city with a comprehensive evaluation of the potential impact an EWA program could have on employees’ financial future.

Students also had the opportunity to collaborate directly with local government leaders on real-world scenarios. In round table discussions, students were given scenarios centered on childcare accessibility, workforce development, transportation, community engagement, and more. This activity offered students the unique opportunity to explore how they could approach local issues with the guidance of experienced local government managers.  

To close the session, students engaged in a dynamic Q&A with the local leaders. This portion of the session gave students the floor to ask questions about specific challenges impacting communities, mentorship opportunities, and advice for those seeking to enter the local government profession. Kimberly Richardson, assistant city manager, Peoria, provided valuable insight to those aspiring to enter public service: “Be open to being uncomfortable. Be open to different job positions in different locations. Strategically move and don’t just move for money. Think about how you can represent the community you work for.” Betsy Keller, county chief administrator, El Paso County, advised students by saying, “Keep raising your hand to say, ‘How can I help?’ Your willingness and attitude to make your community better wherever you can will accelerate your career.”

ICMA aspires to continue supporting the next generation of local leaders through student focused programming, student chapters, and mentorship programs. For more information on how students and interns can get involved, visit ICMA’s Student and Intern Resources webpage.