IT Leaders Program applications
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Applications open once a year to join the Universities of Wisconsin or Big Ten Academic Alliance (BTAA) cohorts of the IT Leaders Program.
Applicants submit written applications, and their supervisors approve their participation. A review committee evaluates responses using an established rubric and considers cohort composition to ensure a balanced, diverse group.
Review the criteria below before you apply. We also encourage you to review the program overview and commitment for the programs you’re applying to.
Applications open
Submit your application to join the 2026-27 Universities of Wisconsin or Big Ten Academic Alliance cohorts. Applications are due Monday, July 13, by 11:59pm.
An ideal candidate
An ideal candidate will demonstrate:
- Willingness and commitment to do the work to improve one’s leadership skill set.
- Openness to professional and personal growth, together with the willingness to change, is critical to becoming an adaptive, strategic and inclusive leader.
- Commitment to fostering a diverse leadership community and dedication to inclusivity and equity.
Review criteria
A strong response demonstrates:
- Interest in the program
- Awareness of how the program will affect the candidate’s skills, projects, unit, career or other stated goals
- A growth mindset
- Self-awareness of strengths and areas for growth
- Goals for developing as a leader
- Vision for how participation will benefit them and the universisty community
Things to consider when applying
- Clearly explain, in narrative form, why you want to join this specific leadership program.
- Identify your strengths and weaknesses, and how you’ll build on or address them to grow as a leader at this university.
- Describe your engagement in the university community and beyond, including new opportunities you see. Highlight projects, activities, communities or groups that help tell your story.
- Demonstrate your abilities using professional or personal examples.
Choosing between the programs
IT Leaders Program (Universities of Wisconsin & BTAA cohorts)
This program supports and strengthens managers and directors looking to advance their skills.
While leaders with direct reports are the most frequent participants, the IT Leaders Program can also be a pivotal leadership development experience for individual contributors and senior leaders.
Lead From Where You Are
This program is designed for individual contributors, technical leads, and less experienced front-line managers who may or may not have direct reports.
Program costs
The IT Leaders Program costs about $7,000 per participant, including travel expenses between $2,000 and $6,000. Participation in the BTAA cohort is typically more expensive than the Universities of Wisconsin cohort due to its additional hotel and travel fees.
The Office of the Chief Information Officer has traditionally paid the core program fees. Each participant’s department must pay for their travel expenses.
Travel commitment
While the workshop lengths are the same, participants in the BTAA cohort should plan for additional travel time at the start and end of their workshops. Travel time will depend on the hosting university’s location.