Lead Beyond the State Line.

WLTI brings together SkillsUSA State and National Officer Elects from across the country for an immersive leadership experience in Washington, D.C. Through advocacy, professional development, teamwork, and national networking, officers strengthen the skills they need to represent their members, serve their associations, and lead with purpose throughout their year of service.

WLTI

Washington Leadership Training Institute

What: State & National Officer Elect Training Conference
When: September 26-30, 2026

Held in Washington, D.C., each September, SkillsUSA’s Washington Leadership Training Institute conference (WLTI) offers students and advisors from across the country unique opportunities to advocate for the skilled trades while receiving advanced leadership training.

Other WLTI events include tours of D.C.’s famous monuments and museums, panel discussions with government officials, a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery and more.

However, the highlight of the four-day event is when student delegations conduct in-person visits with their elected officials on Capitol Hill to advocate for SkillsUSA and career and technical education. During those visits, students share the value and benefits of SkillsUSA participation through their own personal experiences. They also deliver passionate appeals for continued support for career and technical education. Congressional leaders leave these special visits inspired by the promise of a new generation, and students leave with a newfound sense of pride, purpose, and confidence that their voices both matter … and make a difference.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the afternoon, you’ll be ready to:

  • Develop advocacy skills to represent SkillsUSA and career and technical education effectively

  • Build confidence communicating with elected officials, professionals, and fellow student leaders

  • Gain a stronger understanding of government, public policy, and issues affecting CTE

  • Practice professionalism while representing SkillsUSA in high-level settings

  • Use your voice and personal experiences to advocate for SkillsUSA and CTE on a national stage