WSU Tri-Cities Announces Manager Coaching Series Aimed at Strengthening Regional Workforce

​Washington State University Tri-Cities’ continuing education program, Cougar Tracks, has announced February 2026 dates for its Manager Coaching Series, an applied, four-part leadership development program designed to strengthen management capacity across the Tri-Cities region. 
 
Delivered in person on the WSU Tri-Cities campus, the series equips new and mid-level managers with practical tools, proven frameworks and hands-on coaching techniques that support organizational performance, employee engagement and regional workforce readiness. 
 
“As industries across the Tri-Cities continue to evolve, there is a growing need for managers who can lead with clarity, communicate effectively and support high-performing teams,” said Michelle Hrycauk Nassif, director of Cougar Tracks Continuing Education. “This series supports employers by developing confident leaders who are ready to meet today’s workforce challenges and drive our region’s economic vitality.” 
 
Manager Coaching Series details 
Each 2.5-hour session blends interactive learning with real-world scenarios, enabling participants to apply new skills immediately. Workshop topics include: 

• Feb. 3: Manager Essentials — building trust, setting expectations and coaching performance 
• Feb. 10: Leading Performance and Change — navigating complex priorities and guiding teams through transitions 
• Feb. 17: Building the Team — hiring, onboarding and developing talent 
• Feb. 24: Communicating With Influence — facilitating effective meetings and driving action through clear communication 

The series is designed for new managers, aspiring leaders, experienced supervisors and organizations seeking to strengthen leadership capacity and build effective teams. Participants may register for the full series or for individual workshops. 

Supporting workforce growth through community partnerships 
The Manager Coaching Series aligns with Cougar Tracks’ broader mission to serve as the region’s educational partner of choice for non-credit professional development, fostering an inclusive learning community that reflects the needs of the Tri-Cities workforce. 
 
Cougar Tracks partners with local governments, industry leaders and business associations — including the City of Pasco and the Richland Chamber of Commerce — to reduce barriers to professional development and expand access to high-quality training opportunities. 
 
Through these partnerships, workforce training scholarships are available to support employees, small businesses, and emerging leaders.  The Richland Chamber offers re-imbursement to members for professional development through their Business Boost grant. Members can contact the chamber for information.  
 
“These partnerships reflect our commitment to ensuring that every motivated learner in our community — regardless of background or industry — has access to programs that build confidence, strengthen leadership skills and create pathways to economic mobility,” Hrycauk Nassif said. 

More information about the Manager Coaching Series and available scholarships is available by contacting Michelle Hrycuak Nassif by email at [email protected]