Before You Apply
What does a year in WDA involve?
WDA is a cohort experience that requires a shared commitment from participants and their colleges. Before applying, take a look at what participation involves, what your college is committing to, and what the Academy provides.
Who can apply?
- Be employed within Washington's community and technical college system in a position that supports workforce and/or professional/technical education.
- Be preparing for a higher-level workforce leadership role or be newer to workforce administration.
- Complete the WDA application.
- Submit a current CV or resume.
- Arrange for your supervisor to submit the required supervisor recommendation form.
To be considered complete, your application must include all three items below:
- Completed WDA application (via SurveyMonkey)
- Current CV or resume
- Supervisor recommendation form submitted directly by your supervisor
What does participation involve?
Participants are expected to remain actively engaged throughout the Academy year, from October through spring.
- Attend all required virtual and in-person sessions.
- Complete readings and learning activities between sessions.
- Participate in Canvas and other cohort activities between sessions.
- Engage with Academy coaches, presenters, facilitators, and fellow cohort members.
- Develop and work toward a personal and professional growth plan throughout the Academy year.
What does your college commit to?
- Pay the $2,500 participant fee, which includes lodging for overnight in-person sessions.
- Cover travel expenses to and from in-person sessions.
- Provide the time and support necessary for the participant to fully engage in required Academy activities.
The $2,500 program fee must be paid by the participant's college. WDA cannot accept personal payment from participants. Lodging for overnight in-person sessions is included in the fee; travel to and from sessions is the college's responsibility.
What does WDA provide?
- In-person and virtual learning facilitated by experienced workforce leaders, subject-matter experts, and professional facilitators.
- Opportunities for ongoing learning, mentorship, and connection with workforce colleagues from across the state.
- Required Academy materials, resources, and learning tools.
- Lodging for overnight in-person sessions.
- Breakfast and lunch during in-person sessions.
WDA graduates describe the experience in their own words.
“The Academy was unlike any professional development I've ever experienced.”
“I felt so honored to be part of the cohort. Such an amazing group.”
“Everything we did was fun, engaging, and had a lesson attached to it.”
“After this experience, I feel more engaged and inspired than I have in years.”
“I am extremely grateful for everything this cohort experience gave me.”
“In our differences, we are finding commonality...and community.”
“The Academy had a profound impact on me as a person and a leader.”
Ready to apply?
Applications for the 2026–27 Workforce Deans Academy are due September 21, 2026.
Remember: your supervisor must also submit the required recommendation form before your application is complete.