UCCS Downtown Executive Skills

People AND Profit - This course explores the fundamental question of the purpose of business and the drivers behind corporate success. It examines whether businesses are merely entities designed to sell goods or services, or if they have a broader responsibility to fulfill a greater purpose. Through the analysis of case studies encompassing both traditional and alternative business models, participants will evaluate how corporations create societal value beyond shareholder profits and understand the key factors contributing to their long-term growth and success. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped to apply these insights within their own professional contexts, enhancing both their profitability and their broader impact on the world.

Personality Psychology: Myths, Realities and Workplace Applications - This course is divided into three parts. In the first part, we’ll learn what personality traits are, why they matter, and how scientists measure them. In the second part, we’ll debunk some widespread personality myths and learn why some famous personality tests – including the Myers-Briggs Type Inventory, among others – are not considered scientifically valid or reliable. In the last part of this course, we’ll learn which personality traits are most relevant in the workplace, with an eye toward predicting success, failure, and integrity – and we’ll also take a look at a few tools for measuring these traits.

Reading Financials - Much like a health report from your doctor, if you don’t know what financial statement numbers mean – what are the acceptable ranges, which are most critical to understand, and what is the overall story of financial health they are trying to tell, you might be misled into a level of comfort that is not warranted. The ability to recognize the signatures of financial health and, importantly, the initial signs of financial stress, can help you make better decisions about proactive steps that can lead to healthier futures. This workshop will delve into the forensics of financial statement review and go hands-on identifying strong operations - and those with telltale signs that indicate treatment is needed soon to maintain/regain financial health.

Leading a Multi-Generational Workforce - In this course, you will learn essential strategies to effectively manage and engage employees from diverse age groups, from Baby Boomers to Gen Z. This session will cover the unique characteristics, motivations, and communication styles of each generation, providing supervisors with the tools to foster collaboration, address generational conflicts, and leverage the strengths of a diverse team. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and practical exercises, participants will develop the leadership skills necessary to navigate and thrive in a multi-generational workforce.

Accounting: Building, Following, and Hitting Budget Goals - This interactive course will provide an overview of key accounting terminology, concepts, and principles, along with the steps to monitor and evaluate budgets effectively. Participants will also explore techniques for implementing cost control measures to optimize resource allocation. The course features practical exercises designed to enhance decision-making skills, improve communication, and strengthen performance management across their organization.

Conflict Management - This interactive course is designed to equip you with the tools and insights necessary to navigate and defuse conflicts in personal, professional, and global contexts. Through a blend of theoretical insights and practical exercises, participants will experience a shift in perspective, learning to approach conflicts with a renewed sense of understanding and compassion. We will discuss the source of conflict, our collusion in maintaining conflict, and how we can break that cycle. By the end of this workshop, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for conflict and the role it plays in transforming not only your relationships but also the world around you.

Mastering Professional Communications - Strong professional communication skills are how we successfully complete projects, maintain relationships with colleagues, clients and customers, and build our professional identity and reputation. Yet, as the famous quote goes, “The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” Communication skills are not intuitive, and instead take work and practice to build. In this hands-on workshop, we will identify professional communication problems and needs, and learn best practices to convey ideas with clarity and impact, strengthen your interpersonal skills, and project a positive and competent image to those you work with.

Negotiation Fundamentals - Negotiation is everywhere and consequential. Yet, many people dislike negotiation and wonder if they are getting a good deal. In this interactive workshop, participants will learn the fundamentals of how to prepare for any negotiation, when to make the first offer, and when to walk away. You will gain practical strategies to both claim more value for yourself and create more overall value for both parties (win-win). We will discuss common negotiation traps, including how to avoid getting taken advantage of, as well as ethical ways to increase your power when your counterpart has the upper hand. You will leave the workshop feeling more confident in your negotiation skills.

Giving (and Receiving) Feedback without the Drama - TBA

AI Strategy for Corporate Leaders: Optimization, Expansion, and Competitive Advantage - Artificial intelligence presents organizations with a fundamental strategic choice: use AI to optimize existing operations or leverage it to expand into new markets, products, and business models. This class examines the opportunities, risks, and tradeoffs of both approaches through the lens of economic theory, game theory, and real-world business strategy. Participants will explore how competitors, customers, employees, and other stakeholders influence the value of AI investments and learn frameworks for evaluating where AI can create sustainable competitive advantage. Leaders will be equipped to make informed decisions about AI implementation, investment priorities, organizational readiness, and long-term strategic positioning.