Data Training Certificate Program

Who is this program for?

All City of Madison employees!

Yes, even if you don’t see yourself as a “data person,” this program is for you.

Whether you’re not sure if your work involves data or are looking to enhance specific data skills, this program will give you hands-on learning opportunities tailored to your individual goals.

Note: this program requires using a computer for tasks such as attending virtual meetings, accessing and saving digital files, and using Microsoft Excel, Word, email, and calendar software.

Program Time Commitment

3.5 hours per week on average, including weekly worksheets and check-ins*.

*Additionally, the participant’s supervisor must dedicate some time to help the participant define the applied project and course focus or designate a project sponsor to do so.

Cohort 2026.2 Timeline

• August 10 to 14: Orientation Week: 
  • Prepare for the start of the program. 
  • Virtual live sessions: 
    • August 10, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm - Program Orientation Session
• August 17 to September 18: Project Planning & Preparation
  • Learn about foundational data concepts and City resources from the Data Team, start taking on-demand courses with an online learning provider, identify your applied project idea and software tool, develop a project plan, and prepare your dataset. Additionally, share your progress with your peers in a group session.
  • Virtual live sessions:
    • August 17, 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm - Intro Session 1
    • August 24, 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm - Intro Session 2
    • August 31 to September 4* - Software Getting Started & Tips Session
      • *Exact date & time based on participants' availability.
    • September 18, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm - Peer Exchange Session 1
    • September 21 to 25: Break 1
      • First one-week break.
    • September 28 to October 16: Project Development
      • Continue to take on-demand courses with an online learning provider and work on your project. Additionally, share your progress with your peers in a group session.
      • Virtual Live Sessions: 
        • October 16, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm: Peer Exchange Session 2
    • October 19 to 23: Break 2
      • Second one-week break.
    • October 26 to November 20: Project Finalization & Presentation
      • Wrap up your project & present your final product in a closing session.
      • Virtual Live Sessions:
        • November 16, 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm: Closing Session

Where does this program take place?

All meetings and activities will be held online. 

On-demand courses will be available through one of the following providers based on your learning goals:

• DataCamp – courses in multiple data-related topics, programming languages, and software.
• Esri – courses in geographic information systems and mapping (ArcGIS Pro*)

The participant will work with the Data Team to make a final selection between DataCamp and Esri based on project goals.

*Note that we are unable to offer training in other Esri products, such as ArcGIS Online or Experience Builder, at this time. Please reach out to Sam Olivieri, GIS Technical Coordinator, at SOlivieri@cityofmadison.com to learn more about other ArcGIS learning opportunities.

Cost

The participant’s agency must be prepared to fund the cost of an online learning license ($330/license as of June 2026). A limited number of centrally funded licenses will be available to agencies without sufficient budget for this expense. 

How do I join the Cohort?

Declare your interest by July 10

There are limited spots available. The Data & Innovation Team will reach out to those interested to confirm their availability and alignment with the program. Participation is only confirmed after applicants and their supervisors sign the participation agreement. 

Contact: 

For additional information or questions, email datateam@cityofmadison.com. 

Future Cohorts (Tentative)

2027.1: Applications open in January; cohort runs from February to May

2027.2: Applications open in June; cohort runs from August to November