Advance your federal business acumen through management and leadership training in Washington, D.C. You’ll gain the tools to navigate government and private-sector operations effectively.
Gain the essential skills and knowledge to excel as a Business Analyst with this comprehensive certificate program. Master Excel, PowerPoint, SQL, and Tableau while building hands-on expertise in data analysis, data visualization, and presentation design.
Learn the skills you’ll need to succeed as a business professional with our comprehensive applied business program. This program covers essential tools and strategies for project management, finance, marketing, data analysis, and productivity with generative AI, ensuring you gain practical, hands-on experience to excel in the business world.
Learn the essential skills needed to become a Data Analyst or Business Analyst, including data analysis, data visualization, and statistical analysis. Gain practical experience through real-world projects and prepare for a successful career in the field of data analytics.
Learn the digital marketing tools and strategies needed to succeed online, including SEO, social media marketing, paid search, and analytics tracking. Gain essential skills to promote a business and increase ROI in today’s competitive markets from top digital marketing experts.
Become proficient in Microsoft Excel and go from beginner to pro with our hands-on Excel Bootcamp. Learn functions, formulas, Pivot Tables, macros, and time-saving techniques to conquer all the key skills needed to excel in Excel.
Learn how to harness the power of artificial intelligence to transform your workflow with hands-on training in ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot. This course will teach you how to generate content, streamline tasks, and integrate AI into business communication, writing, analysis, and productivity tools.
Boost your social media marketing skills and stay on top of trends with our certificate program. Learn to create effective strategies on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok, and X (formerly known as Twitter) to grow your online following and stand out in the marketplace.
Master Excel, review corporate finance, and build a valuation model on a public company. Gain basic and intermediate Excel skills and learn how to read financial statements, build valuations, and predict market trends.
Join our accelerated bootcamp to start your journey towards becoming a successful project manager. Learn the five phases of project management, project management tools, and strategies, as well as gain an understanding of different project methodologies such as Waterfall, Critical Path, and Agile.
Business is a broad concept that involves buying and selling products, services, or ideas to make a profit. This includes small businesses within a city like Washington, D.C., or large corporations spreading influence throughout the world. Business encompasses a wide range of industries and professions involving marketing, sales, finance, data analytics, project management, and digital technology. The main goal of any business is simple: to earn a profit.
Like a shark needing to swim to stay alive, a business must continually grow by improving sales and maintaining or increasing its market share—regardless of its category. The main purpose of any business is to increase the value of its products or services for the benefit of the owners and shareholders. A business can involve tangible products like clothing or toys as well as intellectual property and services. Ultimately, a business must consistently increase profits, create jobs, and improve its products or services. Training in business includes concepts related to competing in today’s ever-evolving digital landscape to achieve financial success in the nation’s capital.
Training related to business can help people set up a promising career path in Washington, D.C. This includes enrolling in classes that provide individuals with the knowledge needed to establish and operate their own businesses. Business courses can teach aspiring entrepreneurs how to run a business, manage finances, hire employees, and develop successful habits. Business classes may lead someone to establish their own tech startup and bring fresh, innovative ideas to the market. Success in business often depends on factors such as strong interpersonal skills, effective communication, and strategic problem-solving.
Business training can lead individuals to establish their own companies or pursue careers as Business Analysts, Digital Marketers, or Financial Advisors—each of whom can provide support to business owners. People can train in business classes with the goal of eventually launching their own companies or working as Advisors, Analysts, and Marketers. Business training can also lead to roles in management, marketing, and data analysis to help companies achieve success. Skills such as managing a budget, hiring the right team, or identifying market trends can all be developed through business training courses in Washington, D.C.
Whether people decide to own a business or work in one, training offers a strong start and positions them for success. With today’s rapid technological advancement, business training can put business owners, managers, and advisors a step ahead by providing them with knowledge of digital media, financial technology, or marketing concepts. Additionally, learning programming languages like JavaScript or Python can facilitate data analysis, web development, and customer data protection through cybersecurity. With advancements in machine learning and artificial intelligence automating many business processes, predicting customer behavior, and monitoring suspicious network activity, keeping pace with computer technology is essential. Business training equips innovators with knowledge—an essential key to prospering in a city of opportunity like Washington, D.C.
For anyone considering a career in business, business training can provide knowledge in data analytics, digital marketing, and programming languages—establishing the technical foundation for success in the nation’s capital. Skills needed to work in business include marketing, data analytics, search engine optimization, and financial literacy. Enrolling in in-person classes in Washington, D.C., or live online training options to learn practical business skills can help professionals succeed in today’s competitive digital landscape through training in multiple areas.
Financial services involve a wide range of categories such as investing, banking, and insurance. This includes investing in mutual funds or having a bank underwrite a business for an IPO. Investors may seek financial service advice for managing investments, monitoring performance, and developing investment strategies.
Many financial services companies offer a variety of solutions for managing capital expenditures, cash flow, and operating expenses, in addition to offering advice on investing. Financial services also help clients with strategies such as investing in mutual funds, rolling over 401(k) plans, and saving for college, along with general investment guidance.
Digital marketing involves applying a variety of tools, services, and techniques to promote and advertise businesses, products, services, and events to targeted audiences. Digital tools used for marketing include search engine optimization, data analytics, and user experience (UX) design. Gaining skills—and certifications—in data analytics and techniques for measuring customer behavior can be combined with immersive SEO training to enhance the user experience and prepare aspiring professionals to work effectively as Digital Marketers and Brand Strategists.
Training in data analytics, including how to become a Data Analyst or Business Analyst, can provide individuals with the skills and experience to analyze and visualize data and conduct statistical analysis for digital marketing. Data analytics uses data to inform decision-making for marketing products, services, and events across industries. The field emphasizes data visualization, which Marketing Analysts and Marketing Strategists use to tailor campaigns and maximize results.
Investing in the stock market involves purchasing shares of ownership in public companies. As those shares become more valuable, investors can make a profit by selling them to other investors. Today, people can invest using an online brokerage account. Investors may also purchase several different stocks through a single investment fund.
When purchasing a stock, investors must anticipate how their investment might grow and generate profit over time. People don’t need a lot of money to start investing. Many brokerage firms allow users to open accounts without any initial deposit, but they will, of course, need money to purchase stocks. Thanks to the technology available to access financial information and buy stocks through free online brokerage accounts, investing opportunities are abundant. Many brokers also offer paper trading to help new investors learn how to buy and sell through stock market simulators before investing real money.
Technology has become a vital element in financial markets. The rise of the internet and digital tools has transformed how people invest and manage stock portfolios. Technologies such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and machine learning are now routinely used to gather and interpret data for financial decision-making.
Training in financial technology can enhance career opportunities with companies and agencies seeking professionals who can give them a competitive edge. Today, automated trading allows investors to access market data in real-time to buy and sell stock in milliseconds. Many investors rely on data and algorithms to make informed trading decisions by analyzing large volumes of information within seconds and reacting immediately to market changes.
Anyone considering a career in digital marketing will benefit from training in Google Analytics. Google Analytics is a vital tool for marketing professionals, helping them analyze data, interpret reports, and optimize advertising campaign performance. It provides Digital Marketers with a broader view of how campaigns perform, including whether users follow through after clicking an ad to complete a purchase or take another desired action.
Learning business can be challenging due to the wide range of topics it covers—such as developing, distributing, and marketing products and services—as well as the varying experiences and goals of individuals in the field. Business success requires turning a profit, hiring the right people, and achieving financial goals by connecting with customers through skills and technologies, including coding, programming languages, data analytics, and artificial intelligence.
However, with motivation, focus, and practice, the challenges of managing different aspects of business can be reduced. Learning the fundamentals of business can be complex due to the integration of many different concepts, processes, and roles. Business training requires developing knowledge in areas like computer technology, data analytics, and digital marketing. One of the advantages of enrolling in a business class in Washington, D.C., is expanding your skill set in various technologies to compete in the tech labor market or strengthen your marketing career. Business training includes instruction in coding, programming, digital marketing, web and software development, data analytics, and cybersecurity—essential skills for prospering in the nation’s capital.
One of the challenges new learners face when studying business is applying modern tools and technologies to maximize success. Students may also struggle to understand essential concepts like finance, marketing, and workforce management—and how to coordinate all these elements to increase return on investment (ROI). Especially in today’s global economy, staying current with trends and distribution methods is critical for reaching potential customers and meeting regulatory requirements. Business owners must also learn to juggle financial technology, data analysis, employee management, and budgeting to keep their operations running smoothly—especially in a competitive market like Washington, D.C. The difficulty of learning business lies in weaving together many complex threads.
Business training requires developing skills across a wide range of areas. This includes gaining knowledge of computer technology, digital marketing, data analytics, and project management. As a result, students should consider how long it may take to complete their business education and how much time they can invest. Enrolling in business classes helps students gain the knowledge needed to manage finances and people—and prepares them for future technological advancements that may impact business operations. Of course, some people pursue a traditional business degree, which may take four or more years to complete. However, many opt for shorter programs, including continuing education courses at local colleges or business-related classes, bootcamps, and certificate programs from online education providers. These options may take only a few months to a year. Studying business can lead to careers as a Business Analyst, Digital Marketer, Project Manager, or Software Engineer—roles that contribute meaningfully to business success in Washington, D.C.
People who are considering enrolling in business classes may have questions about which format is best for them. Students can choose from in-person or live online courses offered by local colleges and online education providers, giving them the flexibility to learn from anywhere in the world. These training formats cover business fundamentals such as financial management, data analysis, website creation, and digital marketing.
In-person training allows students to interact directly with instructors and classmates. While live online learning also fosters interaction, there is something unique about sharing a physical space—whether reading body language or experiencing the energy of a classroom. The biggest challenge with in-person learning is commuting. Students may face obstacles like traffic, weather, or unexpected delays.
Live online courses offer a convenient option for students seeking business training. Virtual learning provides working professionals with the scheduling flexibility needed to expand their skill set. These courses eliminate the need to leave home or worry about parking and traffic. While some people prefer traditional classrooms, many appreciate avoiding D.C. congestion. Live online training offers many of the same benefits as in-person instruction, including real-time interaction and hands-on guidance—all from the comfort of home.
Although people may have their own ideas about what the word business means, it’s a loosely defined term that encompasses any type of trade or exchange involving currency or something of value. While specific skills are needed in every area of business—such as finance and bookkeeping for managing money or payroll—organizations also benefit from professionals with project management skills to plan, organize, and oversee project execution; data analytics expertise to gather and act on customer insights and trends to maximize return on investment; and marketing knowledge to apply that data in attracting new clients or customers in Washington, D.C.
In addition to understanding the basics of business operations, professionals should also be proficient in fundamental tools like Microsoft Office software, including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. Other essential tools and software to learn alongside business training include Tableau, a data visualization platform used in business intelligence that enables Data Analysts and Business Analysts to present complex data to non-technical audiences. While learning these skills and tools supports business functions, training also helps managers and employees work more efficiently to complete business projects successfully.
Washington, D.C., is home to corporate headquarters for companies such as Lockheed Martin and Marriott International, offering opportunities for entrepreneurs and professionals interested in federal government-related business. The variety of businesses operating in D.C. is closely tied to the city’s role as the nation’s capital, attracting organizations specializing in technology, defense, and public policy.
There are opportunities to form partnerships with the public sector that empower businesses to work with federal agencies to solve challenges, build trust, and accomplish public service missions. Private-sector companies can assist government agencies in developing products or services that have a positive impact on the public. This includes collaboration with federal organizations such as the Department of Homeland Security and other government entities.
Many businesses in the Washington, D.C. area specialize in retail and consumer goods, focusing on supply chain efficiency, decision-making support, and processing payments and consumer data. Retail and consumer goods organizations analyze data to help businesses stay ahead of the competition and adapt to technological changes. Washington, D.C., offers opportunities to work with retailers on managing supply chains and mitigating potential disruptions. Retail analytics can provide forecasts on consumer demand, reduce supply chain risks, and serve as a valuable source of business intelligence.
Washington, D.C., offers extensive opportunities in the healthcare industry, particularly in biotech and pharmaceuticals. Companies such as AstraZeneca, GSK plc, Pfizer, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and Johnson & Johnson operate in or around the capital. Pharmaceutical firms are among the most active lobbying organizations in Washington, providing abundant opportunities for both business and employment in life sciences.
Washington, D.C., ranks among the top cities for tech development, offering substantial opportunities for business and employment in the technology sector. As the nation’s capital, many professionals working in D.C. maintain permanent residences elsewhere, which has contributed to the growth of remote work. Individuals in fields such as communications and lobbying often rely on technology to complete work and communicate remotely. In general, many companies have adopted remote operations to stay connected regardless of location.
Washington, D.C, has a thriving tech sector and benefits from its status as the nation’s capital, where federal agencies such as the Department of Defense and the United States Postal Service offer business and employment opportunities for individuals with the right training. D.C. is also home to corporate headquarters for companies such as Lockheed Martin and Capital One, which provide additional career paths in business. Individuals with business skills can pursue opportunities across industries that align with their interests in project management, budgeting, and strategic planning. Business training can lead to roles that involve managing teams, connecting with clients, and overseeing operations in one of the most dynamic markets in the country.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, work opportunities for Project Management Specialists are projected to grow by six percent between 2022 and 2032. Becoming a Project Manager in Washington, D.C. can result in an annual income ranging from $70,000 to $148,000 to manage people, scope, time, quality, and budgets. Project Managers help businesses manage schedules to meet deadlines and oversee budget allocations by following quality specifications and project expectations.
Digital marketing involves using a variety of digital tools, platforms, and techniques to promote businesses, products, services, and events to targeted audiences. Tools and strategies used in this field include search engine optimization (SEO), data analytics, and UX design. Gaining expertise in data analytics enables marketers to track and optimize user behavior and campaign performance. Immersive training in marketing includes learning SEO and related tools, preparing professionals to succeed as Digital Marketers or Brand Strategists.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment outlook for advertising, promotions, and marketing professionals—including Marketing Managers and Digital Marketers—is projected to grow by six percent from 2022 to 2032, with Marketing Manager demand specifically expected to increase by seven percent. In Washington, D.C., Digital Marketers can earn between $53,000 and $93,000 per year with skills in marketing, data analytics, budgeting, and search engine marketing (SEM). Marketing Managers can earn between $53,000 and $127,000 annually, while Brand Strategists typically earn between $52,000 and $93,000.
Opportunities in Washington, D.C.’s financial services sector include roles in banking, insurance, and wealth management. Financial services professionals often use data analytics to support customer relations, ensure compliance with financial regulations, and improve operational efficiency. Analysts also assess credit risk and contribute to the growing intersection of finance and digital technology. Proficiency in banking analytics helps companies navigate the challenges of today’s data-driven financial landscape to meet growing customer demands. The insurance industry similarly applies financial analytics to mitigate risk and generate insights through business intelligence.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for Financial Analysts is projected to grow by eight percent between 2022 and 2032. Financial Analysts in Washington, D.C., can expect to earn between $61,000 and $136,000 per year.
An Investment Banker helps clients—from large corporations to entrepreneurs and individuals—with advice on mergers, acquisitions, and investment opportunities. Investment Bankers assist clients in raising capital by selling equity or issuing debt. Their responsibilities include preparing financial and legal documents, overseeing mergers, and staying informed about market trends and financial data. An Investment Banker provides research, analysis, and investment advice while building strong, trusting relationships with clients.
The average annual income for an Investment Banker in Washington, D.C., ranges from $56,000 to $116,000.
Becoming an Operations Research Analyst requires training in research tools that help analyze industry trends and predict financial outcomes. A Research Analyst’s job involves communicating with business and industry professionals to analyze data, identify research objectives, and review industry reports that help clients make decisions related to business and investment. Operations Research Analysts typically specialize in data analysis, compiling market data, and examining socioeconomic data through market reports.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment outlook for Operations Research Analysts is projected to grow by 23 percent between 2022 and 2032. Working as an Operations Research Analyst in Washington, D.C., can result in a yearly income between $64,000 and $145,000 to conduct mathematical research that supports business decision-making. These analysts identify issues by analyzing collected data and connecting employees and clients to develop a clearer understanding of financial circumstances.
You can enroll at NYC Career Centers for the Microsoft Office Fundamentals Bootcamp, a live online nine-day course designed to train beginners in the basics of Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook, through four one-day training sessions.
You can also enroll at Noble Desktop for the Data Analytics Certificate program, which provides training in essential skills for becoming a Data Analyst or Business Analyst. The course includes lessons in data visualization to help non-technical users understand complex data through maps, charts, and graphs. Upon completing the certificate, you will gain a better understanding of Tableau, Python, and other tools used across a range of industries, including healthcare, finance, retail, real estate, education, and video game development.
Noble Desktop also offers the “MBA” Business Certificate program, which teaches skills for becoming a business professional. This certificate covers project management, finance, marketing, data analytics, and generative AI, helping students contribute to productivity in business environments. Upon completing this program, you will understand finance, accounting, and corporate finance fundamentals to manage projects efficiently and market a business effectively.
Corporate training in business and finance is a valuable way for organizations to improve in areas related to technology, allowing employees to help their companies remain competitive in today’s evolving digital economy. Noble Desktop offers corporate business training in Washington, D.C., which can be delivered onsite at your company or live online using teleconferencing tools such as Zoom. Your company can also purchase discounted vouchers for Noble Desktop’s public business courses.
If your organization is interested in staying ahead of competitors through business and finance training, contact corporate@nobledesktop.com to request more information or schedule a free consultation.
As the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., is a hub for government, public service, and major organizations, which means there’s ample opportunity for professional development. If you’re looking to expand your knowledge in the field of tech, data, business, or design, you can explore training options available to both individuals and federal professionals. Classes are right in the heart of the city, offering knowledgeable instructors with decades of combined training and a wide range of specializations. From their real-world experience in the field, these instructors provide valuable insights that help students get comfortable while learning the material. Not to mention, the skills they develop in the classroom are practical and transferable, meaning students can put their newfound knowledge right to work.
Training with Noble Desktop’s team is easy with the modern facilities located at 600 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, D.C., 20024. It’s mere steps away from L’Enfant Plaza and offers an array of benefits, like a professional yet welcoming environment and a modern workspace. Getting there from anywhere in D.C. is straightforward, whether by Metro, bus, or car. L’Enfant Plaza is served by multiple Metro lines, and there are several bus routes that stop nearby. Those driving can also access parking garages that are easily within walking distance.
Business training in Washington, D.C. supports professionals working in government, policy, nonprofit leadership, and private-sector organizations. With this, Noble Desktop instructors strive to teach practical communication, management, and strategy skills shaped by years of experience working with diverse teams in the region. Learning at this school also offers a wide range of professional development opportunities, with classes led by expert instructors who can help you acquire skills that get you ready for the real world.
Brian is an educator and training leader passionate about helping professionals grow in fields like project management and AI. He designs adaptive learning programs that combine instructor-led sessions, live online experiences, and self-paced study, making training practical and within reach for anyone. Brian’s work also centers heavily around AI integration, particularly in training situations to show organizations how easy it can be applied to the workplace, showing ways to tackle real-world problems, enhance leadership, streamline projects, and support better decision-making. Beyond teaching, he has also developed curricula and led training on a massive scale. Brian’s blend of talents and interests makes him well-positioned to train others and help them navigate the complexities of the subject matter.
With more than 25 years of experience, Clarissa is a seasoned corporate trainer, Project Manager, and Business Consultant and has helped professionals and organizations alike achieve tangible results around the world. Her work has taken her to amazing places around the world, from China to Africa, training over 10,000 participants in leadership, project management, business analysis, and emerging technologies. Clarissa has worked with teams at NASA, Microsoft, Citibank, and FEMA, just to name a few, and is known for designing interactive yet practical sessions where her listeners can apply their skills immediately. At Graduate School USA, she played a pivotal role and contributed to numerous programs, including the Managing for Results course. She’s a quality instructor, focusing on subjects like project management, AI, and even Adobe, and has a heavy commitment to professionalism, innovation, and student success.
Michele’s professional record in Human Resources, organizational development, and leadership training has been acquired over 25 years in the field. She is a Business Strategist and HR innovator who has helped public, private, federal, and higher education organizations on their path to success. In particular, Michele excels in organizational assessment, project and performance management, workforce development, change management, conflict resolution, and AI initiatives. She prides herself on guiding individuals to leverage their strengths while fulfilling their professional lives. Her consulting work includes leading the DC Courts HR Division’s Five-Year Strategic Plan and Workforce Development Program, “Fulfilling Our Future.” She’s also held senior executive positions at Howard University, the Air Line Pilots Association, and Executive Transitions International. She’s currently working as an adjunct faculty at Graduate School USA and Anne Arundel Community College.
Alan Zucker brings real-world expertise from both the federal government and Fortune 100 companies to the classroom. With more than 25 years of professional work in project management, he makes for an ideal instructor. He has managed the project execution organization of 175 professionals, led high-visibility strategic initiatives, and delivered thousands of successful projects. His education began at George Washington University, where he earned his Bachelor’s, before progressing to earn a Master's in Economics from the University of Maryland. Moreover, he holds a wide variety of certifications, such as the Project Management Professional Certification (PMP), PMI-ACP, Disciplined Agile Coach, SAFe Program Consultant, Certified Scrum Professional, and Agile Leadership Academy Trainer. Alan is an active member of the project management community, having served as a keynote speaker, frequent industry commentator, and author of nearly 150 articles on project management.
Tashea is a Human Resources Executive and Federal Consultant, holding over 23 years of experience across multiple federal agencies, including the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Treasury, State, and Health and Human Services. Known for her ability to strategize and take the lead, Tahsea has transformed HR policies to align with mission strategies and outcomes, influencing government-wide procedures such as onboarding and pay equity. Tashea is a staunch advocate for ethical leadership, inclusivity, and organizational success. In addition, she prides herself on her authenticity and purpose-driven spirit, which translates into her work as an educator as well. In addition to teaching subjects like AI. She’s an author and entrepreneur, and is always looking for ways to help organizations and individuals alike.
With a strong foundation in federal human resources management and legal counseling, Charles is a highly knowledgeable Employee and Labor Relations Consultant in Washington, D.C. He began his education at Loyola University, earning his B.A. in Business Administration and Political Science, before graduating from the University of Baltimore School of Law. Throughout his career, Charles has guided agencies through complex HR and labor-related challenges, managed HR programs, and represented organizations in legal proceedings. He has also designed and delivered specialized training in human resources, project management, and marketing. Charles’ professional background has led to numerous accolades and awards, showcasing his impact in the field.
Dr. David E. McCullin, better known as Dr. Mac, specializes in strategic communication, homeland security, data analytics, and accurate decision-making. Prior to his work at Graduate School USA, Dr. Mac obtained his Bachelor’s in Engineering, his Master’s in National Security and Strategic Studies, and a Doctorate in Management of Complex Adaptive Systems. He served 24 years in the U.S. Army, including 13 in Special Operations. He later worked at the Department of Homeland Security as an Intelligence and Infrastructure Security Analyst for nearly a decade. Through his education and solid professional career, he has been able to teach students a variety of important skills and has also developed innovative learning tools and games that help improve decision-making and analytical thinking skills.
As a part-time instructor at Graduate School USA for over 15 years, Natalya’s expertise cannot go unnoticed. She’s an educator and has developed curricula for the school, including the Change Management Workshops and several project management courses. Not to mention, she’s also served as a learning coach, facilitator, and instructor for government leadership programs and has developed the Define and Achieve Your Goals Process. Natalya earned her Master’s in Project Management and her Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification, making her a well-qualified and effective educator, project manager, coach, and consultant.
Alan is a retired combat veteran of the U.S. Air Force and Navy with over 30 years of experience in federal and commercial budgeting, auditing, programming, operations, supply chain management, and IT acquisitions. He holds an MBA from George Washington University and a Teaching Certification from Harvard’s Bok Center for Teaching and Learning. Throughout his career across federal, state, and local government agencies, Alan has worked for numerous departments, such as the Department of State and Defense, as well as the Office of the Mayor of D.C. Alan is also an accomplished consultant and business strategist, having aided in the development of organizational projects at Lockheed Martin and PwC, to name a few. His background and lengthy career make him an ideal instructor for those looking to learn more about finance, accounting, and project management.
As a skilled instructor and business leader, Derk Mattocks possesses the skills and career experience to bolster his credibility. He gained his B.S. in Organization Management from Nyack College and his Master’s in Leadership and Military Installation Management, as well as an MBA in Financial Management and Analysis from the University of Maryland. He is a licensed Certified Advanced Professional Business Coach and trained mediator, with the certification to facilitate the “Five Practices of Leadership” workshops. Derk has also served as a Senior Advisor and Instructor for the U.S. Army. Overall, he has the credentials to serve as an accomplished and well-versed instructor, often covering topics related to project management and marketing.
Melanie is a federal acquisition and contracting expert with over 30 years of professional experience in Washington, D.C., spanning both government and education sectors. She has served as the Vice President of Acquisition Policy at SAIC and as the Managing Editor of the Federal Contracts Report at Bloomberg BNA. She’s currently an instructor at Graduate School USA, often teaching classes related to the marketing realm. She’s a Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) and a Fellow of the National Contract Management Association, positioning her as a person with incredible leadership skills and knowledge of her field. She earned her MBA from Georgetown University and is known as a clear, trusted instructor who consistently challenges students to take their skills to the next level.