More than 60 Tennessee Postsecondary members attended the Washington Leadership Training Institute (WLTI) in 2025. If you are interested in attending WLTI in September 2026, learn more about this premier national leadership experience below.
What is WLTI?
The Washington Leadership Training Institute (WLTI) is SkillsUSA's premier leadership development conference held annually in Washington, D.C. Participants explore the SkillsUSA Framework, strengthen their leadership skills, develop advocacy knowledge, and learn how career and technical education impacts communities across the nation.
Students attend as part of the Tennessee delegation, creating a shared leadership experience while representing Tennessee on the national stage.
What You'll Experience
- Leadership development based on the SkillsUSA Framework
- Advocacy training and public policy education
- Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Perkins V funding discussions
- Capitol Hill visits with members of Congress and their staff
- National Statesman Leadership Award opportunities
- Three nationally recognized certifications through pre-work activities
- Networking with SkillsUSA members from across the country
Washington, D.C. Highlights
- Capitol Hill visits
- Day in Washington, D.C.
- Twilight Monument Tour
- White House viewing
- National memorials and historic landmarks
- State delegation activities and team-building experiences
Why Attend?
WLTI provides students with the opportunity to strengthen leadership skills, build confidence, expand professional networks, and learn how to effectively advocate for career and technical education. Participants return with practical leadership tools they can apply within their chapters, colleges, careers, and communities.
The capstone experience takes place on Capitol Hill, where students meet with legislators and congressional staff to discuss the value of career and technical education, the student experience, workforce development, and the importance of Perkins funding. Students learn firsthand how public policy impacts education and the future workforce.
National Statesman Leadership Award
Participants have the opportunity to work toward the prestigious National Statesman Leadership Award by completing conference activities, leadership reflections, and advocacy experiences. This national recognition highlights a student's commitment to leadership development and civic engagement.
Important Dates
- Registration Opens: August 1
- Registration Closes: Late August (see annual calendar for current deadlines)
- Pre-work Due: Thursday prior to travel
- Conference: September (see annual calendar for current dates)
Resources
- 2026 WLTI Guide-Coming August 2026
- 2026 WLTI Packing List-Coming August 2026
- WLTI Pre-work-Coming August 2026
Past Data
Learn More
Ready to take the next step in your leadership journey? WLTI is one of the most impactful experiences available to SkillsUSA members and serves as a gateway to advanced leadership opportunities at the state and national levels.
View Key Dates & Deadlines
Visit the SkillsUSA National webpage ↗
