Education Opportunities

Welcome to OAMR's Education Hub, your gateway to the tools, training, and resources you need to grow and thrive in your role as a municipal clerk. Whether you are just starting out or are a seasoned professional working toward your CMC (Certified Municipal Clerk) or MMC (Master Municipal Clerk) certifications, OAMR supports you with meaningful learning at every stage of your career.

Quick Links to Educational Resources 

Core OAMR Education Programs

OAMR Meeting/Conference Calendar
Find upcoming events, annual conferences, Mid-Year Academies, and more. These events provide targeted, timely education while helping you connect with your peers.
Certification Programs: Certified Municipal Clerk or Master Municipal Clerk
Earn your Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) or Master Municipal Clerk (MMC) credentials through IIMC-approved programs. OAMR helps members track points and understand certification steps.
Professional Development
Learn why continuing education is the cornerstone of effective municipal service. OAMR supports growth through structured training, mentorship, and targeted learning.
Northwest Clerks Institute (NCI)
The region's premier program for municipal clerks. Hosted by the University of Puget Sound, NCI offers multi-year professional development for CMC and MMC candidates.
Oregon State Archives Records Training
Free, practical courses from the Oregon Secretary of State on managing records, email retention, and records laws. Critical for public records compliance.
Institute of Certified Records Managers (ICRM)
Gain advanced credentials in records and information governance, including the Certified Records Manager (CRM) designation.

Expand Your Learning: External Programs & Resources

IIMC Online Professional Development Program (OPDP)
Live and on-demand webinars that count toward CMC/MMC credits. Topics include leadership, ethics, conflict resolution, and more.

State Municipal Clerks Associations

Expand your professional development and grow your network by connecting with clerk associations across the western U.S. These state organizations offer training, certification programs, and peer support designed to strengthen your leadership in local government:
California City Clerks Association (CCAC) – Comprehensive training, certification, and statewide networking for municipal clerks in California.
Washington Municipal Clerks Association (WMCA) – Focused on education, mentorship, and support for clerks throughout Washington.
Idaho City Clerks, Treasurers and Finance Officers Association (ICCTFOA) – Offers collaboration, resources, and continuing education opportunities for Idaho’s city officials.
Alaska Association of Municipal Clerks (AAMC) – Provides training, certification, and a statewide support network for clerks serving Alaska’s diverse communities.
League of Oregon Cities (LOC)
Workshops, webinars, and conferences tailored to Oregon municipal staff. It includes the Small Cities Network, the Women’s Caucus and the Oregon Latinos in Local Government. 
ARMA International & NAGARA
There are also specialized trainings for clerks who manage and maintain records programs. ARMA International and NAGARA (National Association of Government Archives and Records Administrators) offer certifications and resources to records administrators and archivists in municipal, county, state agencies as well as special districts and other types of organizations. Stay up to date with modern information governance practices.

These associations are great ways to stay informed, make valuable connections, and keep sharpening your skills—whether you’re looking for inspiration, new tools, or fresh perspectives.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

OAMR Scholarships
Apply for financial support to attend NCI, Mid-Year Academy, or Annual Conferences. Open to all members; awarded annually.

IIMC Foundation Grants & Scholarships
From conference registration grants to online learning stipends, IIMC’s scholarship fund helps clerks at all levels.

Degrees and Certificates in Public Administration, Elections & Records Management 

Degrees and Certificates in Public Administration, Elections & Records Management
Explore accredited bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate programs that prepare you for careers in public service, elections, and records management. Institutions like Portland State University, Oregon State University, the University of Washington, and the University of Minnesota offer high-quality, relevant academic options:

Soft Skills & Leadership Development

Workshops, Toastmasters, Athenian Leadership Dialogues, and conflict resolution training all help sharpen your leadership and communication skills.

Mentorship & Networking

OAMR Mentoring Program
New to the profession? Get paired with an experienced clerk to help navigate your early career. Visit our 'Mentoring Program' page for more information on how to find a mentor. 

IIMC Region IX & Peer Networks
Join OAMR and IIMC networks to share ideas, ask questions, and stay connected with your clerk community.

Have questions or need help finding the right training? Contact the Education Committee at [email protected]