Professional & Leadership Development
Lunchtime Learning
NETWORK
Networking At Noon
Grow your knowledge over lunch with the St. Cloud Area Chamber’s Lunchtime Learning series. Each session features practical insights from local experts on timely business topics, along with opportunities to network with fellow professionals. Your registration includes lunch, audience introductions, an interactive presentation, Q&A, networking, and a business card exchange.
All sessions are held in person at the Chamber office. Please register at least two business days in advance so we can include you in the lunch count. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the event are nonrefundable.
Fall 2026 Classes
Browse the upcoming sessions below and click on an event title to register.
September 2nd: Developing and Optimizing Your Employee Handbook
Whether you’re creating an employee handbook for the first time or updating one that hasn’t been reviewed in years, this session will help you build a handbook that supports your business and your employees. Designed with small businesses in mind, we’ll cover essential HR policies, compliance considerations, workplace expectations, and best practices for keeping your handbook current, relevant, and effective. You’ll leave with practical guidance to help ensure your handbook is a valuable tool for communication, consistency, and risk management.
Speaker: Tina Mrozek, Blacklight Adventures
Sponsor:
October 7th: AI 101: Best Practices & Platforms for Beginners
Curious about AI but not sure where to start? This beginner-friendly session will introduce the most popular AI tools and platforms, explain common terminology, and share practical ways you can use AI both personally and professionally to save time, increase productivity, and enhance your work. You’ll also learn best practices for getting started, avoiding common mistakes, and using AI effectively and responsibly.
Speaker: Mark Gill, St. Cloud State University
Sponsor:
November 4th: AI at Work: Developing Policies That Protect Your Business
AI is changing the way businesses operate, but are your policies keeping up? Join us for a practical discussion on the legal considerations surrounding workplace AI, including risk management, compliance, employee use guidelines, and how to develop an AI policy or handbook that helps protect your business while empowering your team to use AI responsibly.
Speaker: Teddy Flemming, LathropGPM
Sponsor:
December 2nd: Networking Basics: From Introductions to Opportunities
Whether you’re new to networking, naturally introverted, or simply looking to build stronger professional relationships, this session will provide practical tips for starting conversations, making meaningful connections, and turning introductions into lasting opportunities. Learn strategies for approaching networking events with confidence, overcoming common challenges, and building authentic relationships that can support your personal and professional growth. If your goal is to expand your network, generate new business opportunities, or feel more comfortable in professional settings, this session is for you.
Speaker: Jason Miller, Trust Real Estate
Sponsor:
January 6th: Creating a Customer Experience that Shines
What turns a one-time customer into a loyal advocate? This session will explore how exceptional service, intentional employee training, and a strong workplace culture work together to create memorable customer experiences. Learn practical strategies for empowering your team, exceeding customer expectations, and building a reputation that keeps customers coming back and sharing their positive experiences with others.
Speaker: Crew Carwash
Sponsor:
Attend A Class!
Join us the first Wednesday of **every month in the Coldspring Conference Room, 1411 W. St. Germain Street, Suite 101, from 12 – 1 p.m. for lunch and a business presentation. The cost is $25 for members and $35 for the general public, which includes lunch.
Purchase a SEASON PASS for $100 and get in to all 5 sessions – a savings of $25! This is available to members only.
Because we order lunch for all attendees, cancellations must be received at least 48 hours prior to the session or payment will be expected.
**Spring programs run February – June; the fall programs run September – January. There are no Lunchtime Learning classes in July and August.
HOW TO REGISTER AND SPONSOR:
To register, call 320-656-3826 or email Registrations@StCloudAreaChamber.com. The Lunchtime Learning Program is supported monthly by Chamber member businesses. If you are interested in sponsoring a Lunchtime Learning Program call 320-656-3800 for details.
PAST BUSINESS TRAINING PROGRAMS INCLUDE:
- Social Media Game-Changers
- Developing a Culture of Innovation and Employee Engagement
- Everything You Want To Know About Somalis, But Are Afraid To Ask
- Effectively Managing Today’s Cross-Generational Workforce
- Perfectionism and Productivity
- Managing Online Reviews
QUESTIONS?
Contact the Chamber’s front office by calling 320-251-2940. To register, please use the registrations email above, to avoid your email accidentally going to the junk/spam folder. Thank you for attending!
Contact
Chair
Sarah Dean
Business Development Committee
Scouting America
Chamber Staff
Laura Wagner
Director of Programs & Events
320.656.3831
