ACC Level I

The Advanced County Commissioner (ACC) education program is an advanced leadership initiative designed for graduates of the Certified County Commissioners (CCC) program. The course content focuses on forward-thinking leadership with an emphasis on the future of Florida. Participants are challenged to prepare for the demands of tomorrow by thinking and acting anew, while asserting skillful leadership in times of daunting challenges and rapid change.

Organized as a series of three in-person seminars held in Alachua County, the ACC program is completed after 27 hours of total coursework. Participating commissioners must commit to fully engage in all three seminars to receive credit and benefit from the full scope of the curriculum.

Each seminar features interactive sessions, facilitated discussions, and presentations from experts in policy, governance, and innovation. Commissioners explore emerging trends, learn strategic planning techniques, and examine the tools necessary to lead with vision and integrity. This immersive experience fosters collaboration among peers from across the state, creating a valuable network of forward-looking county leaders.

Graduates of the ACC Level I program emerge with enhanced leadership capabilities, a deeper understanding of long-term policy impacts, and renewed confidence in their ability to drive positive change in their communities. The program is a hallmark of professional excellence in county governance and a key step for those committed to shaping Florida’s future through informed, proactive, and ethical public service.

ACC Level II

ACC Level II is the newest leadership program developed strategically for ACC graduates who seek to expand their education opportunities. ICG has collaborated with the UF/IFAS Leadership Institute to develop this next-level training, designed to build upon the skills learned in the CCC and ACC programs. ACC Level II offers alumni an opportunity to develop the tools and competencies needed to become strong, versatile leaders capable of transforming their counties and the state of Florida.

Throughout the program, participants will have the opportunity to:

  • Hear from experts on different sides of complex issues such as population growth, marijuana policy, and water management.
  • Develop the necessary leadership competencies to engage both their teams and stakeholders across the political and ideological spectrum to strengthen human resource relationships.
  • Build a network of other leaders committed to advancing excellence in governance at the county, state, and national levels.

The program emphasizes strategic thinking, adaptive leadership, and systems-based approaches to problem solving. Sessions are designed to be highly interactive, encouraging open dialogue, reflection, and peer-to-peer learning. This structure allows participants to not only learn from faculty and guest speakers but also from the diverse experiences and perspectives of fellow commissioners.

Graduates of ACC Level II will emerge better equipped to lead in increasingly complex and dynamic environments. By focusing on real-world applications and forward-focused strategies, the program prepares participants to navigate high-stakes challenges, build consensus, and champion innovative solutions that enhance community resilience and long-term prosperity across Florida.