WSU Tri-Cities Launches New Leadership Series for Managers

Washington State University Tri-Cities’ Cougar Tracks professional development program is introducing a new four-part series designed to equip managers with the tools needed to strengthen organizational performance and leadership capacity.
 
The “Manager Coaching Series: The Essential Blueprint for High-Impact Leaders” was developed with input from Cougar Tracks industry ambassadors Wade Larson of Optimal Talent Dynamics and Garth Reed of ExperienceBetter LLC. The program targets the management skills employers say they value most, including coaching and feedback, accountability, communication, prioritization, engagement, retention, and leading change.
 
“Strong managers are the backbone of thriving organizations,” said Michelle Hrycauk Nassif, director of Cougar Tracks at WSU Tri-Cities. “This program delivers actionable strategies managers can use immediately to build trust, lead performance, retain top talent and influence with confidence. For employers, it’s an investment in stronger teams and measurable results. For individuals, it’s a pathway to greater leadership impact and career growth.”

The series is tailored for new and mid-level managers as well as seasoned leaders seeking a refresher. Each half-day workshop addresses a critical dimension of effective management:

• Manager Essentials (Oct. 23) – Building trust, setting expectations and coaching performance.
• Leading Performance and Change (Nov. 6) – Prioritizing effectively, navigating tough conversations and guiding teams through transitions.
• Building the Team (Nov. 20) – Attracting, onboarding and developing top talent to strengthen retention.
• Communicating with Influence (Dec. 4) – Delivering clear updates, running effective meetings and influencing outcomes without authority.
  
  

Workshops will be held from 8:30–11:30 a.m. at the WSU Tri-Cities Consolidated Information Center, Career Center Room 120. Participants may register for the full series or individual sessions.
 
The cost is $349 per workshop or $1,050 for the complete series.
 
“This program supports our regional mission of developing a strong, future-ready workforce,” Nassif said. “When managers are equipped with the right skills, the entire organization benefits.”
 
For more information about WSU Tri-Cities' Cougar Tracks continuing education and professional development courses visit the website or to register for upcoming courses, visit the registration website.