The application period for the “Women in Leadership: A Program for Emerging Leaders” is currently open. This professional development initiative is a collaborative effort between Women in Aviation International (WAI) and Harvard University’s Division of Continuing Education (DCE).
In an exciting expansion, WAI plans to offer both on-campus and virtual experiences beginning in 2026, thereby enhancing access to this valuable program.
Applications for the upcoming programs opened on November 15 and will conclude on January 15, 2026. The on-campus course is scheduled for May 13 to 15, 2026, at Harvard’s campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with an additional virtual training day on June 18, 2026. Virtual sessions will also be held from June 3-5, 2026, and November 4-6, 2026.
This program is designed using curriculum from Harvard’s DCE, specifically tailored to tackle the unique challenges faced by women in the aviation and aerospace sectors. Key topics of focus include executive communication, strategic thinking, and negotiation skills, which are essential for personal and professional growth.
The mission of WAI is to equip high-potential leaders with the necessary business fundamentals, enhance essential leadership abilities, and cultivate their individual leadership styles. Lynda Coffman, CEO of WAI, emphasized the program’s effectiveness, stating, “We know that WAI alumnae who have completed the course during the past three years have developed strong networks with their classmates and have reported career advancement as a direct result of their experience at Harvard.”
Participants will receive a certificate from Harvard University’s Division of Continuing Education, enhancing their professional credentials.
This initiative has also received partial funding from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. For the on-campus program, a maximum of 30 WAI members will be selected to receive financial support that covers tuition, accommodation, and meals during the three-day course. However, participants will be responsible for their own travel costs. Commitment to attending all three on-campus days, as well as the virtual coaching day, is required.
For each of the virtual sessions, up to 45 WAI members will be accepted, with the stipulation that they attend all three days of the selected program.
Applicants must be current members of WAI with a minimum of seven years of professional experience to be eligible for the program.
To apply for the program, visit WAI.org/scholarships.
