Upward
About Upward I & II
Does this sound like you? We understand. We’ve been there. For over 20 years, Momentum has delivered transformational change for women. We guide you through a process of self-discovery, vision casting, action planning and access to a vast network of women leaders. A survey of our last Upward class showed that 40% of participants experienced a promotion or upward mobility while they were still in the program. Many will use the training they received to set an intentional career path, defend their value, set clear boundaries, and build strong relationships.
The Upward program year runs from February to October and is comprised of two cohorts of approximately 30 women each: one for early career (3-5 years of experience, usually at the individual contributor level) and one for mid-career (6-15 years of experience, usually at the first-time manager level.) Each class session is half-day, one cohort in the morning and the second cohort in the afternoon. Sessions are hosted by Momentum’s partners in the Birmingham metro-area.
Investment
Tuition for the program is $2,500 and is usually paid in full or in part by the participant’s organization. A limited number of scholarships are available for those requiring financial assistance.
Attendance
Attendance at the opening and closing sessions is mandatory for graduation. Full participation in the March – September monthly sessions is expected; no more than one session may be missed. Please verify the following dates before submitting your application.
Dates
Opening Session – February 6, 2024 (required attendance)
Monthly Sessions
March 12, 2024
April 9, 2024
May 14, 2024
June (No class)
July 9, 2024
August 13, 2024
September 10, 2024
Graduation – October 8, 2024 (required attendance)
Meet Our Current Upward Class
How to
Apply
2023-2024
Application Period
Applicant Selection
Program Begins
Participant Criteria
The Momentum selection committee, comprised of volunteer Momentum alumnae, will select a maximum of 60 applicants with diverse roles and representing a variety of industries to participate in the program. The participants will be divided into two classes based on level of experience. The first cohort is for high potential individual contributors with less than five years of experience, the second is for emerging leaders with approximately five-fifteen years of experience. Each class will meet for half-day sessions once a month for nine months, beginning in February. The following is a general profile of the target participant:
- Demonstrates high degree of career ownership
- Is self-motivated and capable of motivating others
- Appreciates diversity
- Shows initiative in team projects
- Possesses strong people skills
Upward has introduced me to a great group of women in Birmingham who provide different perspectives, and challenge my own processes. It has encouraged and stretched my professional development by pushing me be more intentional. In short, this program encourages open communications and learning from one another, which is an invaluable thing.
Momentum has built a network of amazing women that I can lean on and support, provided opportunities to participate in the mentorship program that has given me confidence and perspective, connected me to a career at Fast Slow Motion which has been a blessing in my life, and encouraged me to give back to the Community through leadership opportunities at Girl Spring. Momentum’s Upward program has changed the trajectory of my career and I am forever grateful.
I am loving Upward and feel so fortunate to have been accepted. I know it’s going to be a game changer for me. It’s encouraging me to do the hard work of really taking stock of where I’ve been, who I am, and where I’m trying to go.
The Upward sessions have been incredibly refreshing! To be among a group of 60 women, all seeking to be intentional with their leadership and in their careers has been amazing experience!