Introducing the Ascend Class for Emerging Geoprofessional Managers

 

The GBA Ascend Class helps technically strong professionals transition into project, people, and client management through a 12-week, cohort-based live virtual program built by and for geoprofessionals.

GBA’s Geoprofessional Career Ascent Program (GCAP) is a structured, four-tier professional development pathway of classes within GBA’s Career Continuum, designed to help geoprofessionals grow from consulting fundamentals to advanced business and leadership capabilities and roles. GCAP classes include Embark (early professionals), Ascend (management), Summit (leadership), and Sustain (senior/special development)—so member firms can develop talent at every career stage with a consistent, geoprofessional-led learning experience.

NOW ENROLLING: ASCEND CLASS, APRIL 2026
Ascend is GCAP’s Level 2 class—created specifically for geoprofessionals who are moving from technical contributor work into project, people, and/or client management. It focuses on the real-world leadership demands of consulting environments.

Ascend is a cohort-based, live virtual program delivered through 12 weekly sessions (75 minutes each) led by industry veteran subject matter experts and supported by participant-centered instruction, plus one-on-one coaching to reinforce real-world application. Cohorts are limited to 24 participants.

Ascend is ideal for geoprofessionals who are:
• Typically bringing 5-10 years of experience into their next career stage
• Managing others for the first time (or about to)
• Moving from technical contributor to project, people, or client management
• Identified as high-potential staff in a firm’s succession pipeline

Classes focus on the skills that most often determine success in management roles, including:
• Understanding personality styles and navigating professional relationships
• Execution and delivering results in complex consulting environments
• Time management and priorities in a consulting setting
• Delegation and accountability
• How to train and develop others
• Managing conflict productively
• Growth mindset and resilience under pressure
• Emotional intelligence and self-awareness
• Giving and receiving feedback
• Client management skills and trust-building
• Listening skills and communication

CLASS DATES AND APPLICATION
Ascend is now enrolling for 2026 cohorts, which take place April 7-July 14 and October 2-December 18. Up to two applicants per member firm may be accepted to each class.