Washington Leadership Training Institute
Lead. Advocate. Represent Tennessee.
WLTI is SkillsUSA's premier national leadership and advocacy experience, preparing students to lead with confidence, understand public policy, and represent career and technical education on Capitol Hill.
About WLTI
A National Leadership Experience With Lasting Impact
The Washington Leadership Training Institute is held annually in Washington, D.C. Participants explore the SkillsUSA Framework, strengthen leadership skills, develop advocacy knowledge, and learn how career and technical education affects communities across the nation.
Students attend as part of the Tennessee delegation, creating a shared leadership experience while representing Tennessee on the national stage.
More than 60 Tennessee College/Postsecondary members attended WLTI in 2025.
What You Will Experience
Leadership, Advocacy, and Career Readiness
Leadership Development
Build confidence and leadership through the SkillsUSA Framework.
Advocacy Training
Learn how to communicate effectively with policymakers and community leaders.
Public Policy Education
Explore the role of CTE, Perkins V funding, and workforce policy.
Capitol Hill Visits
Meet with members of Congress and their staff to share the student experience.
Statesman Award
Work toward nationally recognized leadership and civic-engagement honors.
National Certifications
Complete pre-work connected to three nationally recognized credentials.
National Networking
Connect with SkillsUSA members and leaders from across the country.
Tennessee Delegation
Learn, travel, and lead as part of a unified Tennessee team.
Washington, D.C. Highlights
Experience Leadership in the Nation's Capital
WLTI combines structured leadership development with meaningful experiences throughout Washington, D.C.
Why Attend?
Develop the Confidence to Lead and Advocate
WLTI helps students strengthen leadership skills, expand professional networks, and learn how to advocate for career and technical education.
Participants return with practical tools they can apply in their chapters, colleges, careers, and communities.
The capstone experience takes place on Capitol Hill, where students discuss CTE, workforce development, the student experience, and the importance of Perkins funding with legislators and congressional staff.
National Statesman Leadership Award
Recognizing Leadership and Civic Engagement
Participants may work toward the prestigious National Statesman Leadership Award by completing conference activities, reflections, advocacy experiences, and additional leadership requirements.
This national recognition highlights a student's commitment to leadership development, citizenship, and service.
Important Dates
Plan for WLTI 2026
2026 Resources
Prepare for the Tennessee Delegation Experience
The conference guide, packing list, and pre-work materials will be released in August 2026.
Past Data
WLTI Press Releases
Learn More
Take the Next Step in Your Leadership Journey
WLTI is one of the most impactful leadership experiences available to SkillsUSA members and serves as a gateway to advanced opportunities at the state and national levels.