WAPA’s L2I inspires new leaders – part two

In part one of this three-part series, we gained some insights into the Leadership Learning Intensive course offered by WAPA’s Leadership Development Program. In part two, we delved deeper into the L2I training program and heard from another participant embarking on their quest for professional growth. 

WAPA’s Leadership Learning Intensive is not just a professional development course; it’s a transformative 18-month journey that molds the leaders of tomorrow within our organization. With a mission to enhance leadership acumen and cultivate competencies essential for current and aspiring leaders, the L2I program is a significant stride toward making WAPA an even better workplace. 

Participants in the L2I program are immersed in a comprehensive and multifaceted curriculum that offers both formal training and exciting experiential learning opportunities. From intensive sessions on effective team leadership to in-depth explorations of strategic thinking, the program equips students with the essential skills and insights needed to excel in leadership roles. Moreover, experiential opportunities such as regional site visits, peer networking and work-shadowing details provide hands-on experiences that broaden perspectives and deepen understanding. 

“The program’s focus on Effective Team Leadership, Influencing Skills and Strategic Thinking equips us to lead and collaborate effectively within our teams,” said Sukhraj Bal.

The rigorous selection process for the L2I program reflects its commitment to excellence, demonstrated by stringent eligibility criteria. The application process includes submitting detailed written responses addressing experiences related to executive core qualifications and undergoing a structured interview assessment facilitated by seasoned professionals. 

Our next participant, WAPA Information Technology Specialist Sukhraj Bal from Sierra Nevada’s regional office in Folsom, California, explains why the course will be valuable to him. 

What motivated you to enroll in the Leadership Learning Intensive program, and how do you envision it benefiting your career path?

I was highly motivated to enroll in the Leadership Learning Intensive program because of its comprehensive development opportunities. The training sessions, such as those focusing on Effective Team Leadership, Engaging Leadership, Influencing Skills and Interpersonal Savvy, will equip me with the necessary tools to motivate and inspire my team, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment. 

What leadership skills or competencies are you eager to learn, develop or enhance?

The program’s blend of training workshops and experiential learning perfectly aligns with my desire to refine my leadership skills and gain a broader perspective within WAPA. The experiential aspects of the program are particularly exciting. They will lead to a wider understanding, allowing me to make more informed decisions and contribute strategically to my role. 

What aspect of the program curriculum are you most looking forward to, or what excites you most about the program, and why?

Regional site visits and discussions with WAPA’s Senior Leadership Team will offer invaluable firsthand exposure to WAPA’s programs, initiatives and projects. The shadowing and work experience in Washington, D.C., with the Washington Liaison Office presents a unique chance to fully immerse in novel work, allowing me to develop new skill sets and gain valuable insights. 

How do you believe the Leadership Learning Intensive aligns with WAPA’s mission and values as well as your own?

The program’s focus on Effective Team Leadership, Influencing Skills and Strategic Thinking equips us to lead and collaborate effectively within our teams. This will allow us to tackle challenges and deliver high-quality results that benefit the communities WAPA serves. The program’s experiential opportunities, including regional site visits and shadowing experiences, provide deep exposure to WAPA’s programs and initiatives. This knowledge will empower us to make informed decisions that will contribute to WAPA’s mission of securing a reliable and resilient energy future. 

In what ways do you anticipate the program will challenge you, and how do you plan to overcome these challenges?

The program will push me outside of my current role and responsibilities. The focus on strategic thinking and regional site visits/tours to enhance my understanding of WAPA’s programs, initiatives and projects might expose areas where my knowledge is limited. This will be challenging, but I plan to actively engage in discussions, ask questions and leverage the expertise of peers and mentors within the program.  I sincerely appreciate my family, team, supervisor, senior leadership and training program managers for the flexibility and support they provide me. Their support is invaluable, and I am confident I can succeed in this program with them. 

Do you have specific goals within WAPA or for yourself that this course will help you achieve?

I want to become a more impactful team leader and contribute strategically to achieving WAPA’s mission. The program’s emphasis on peer networking and panel discussions with regional leadership teams fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing across different departments. This aligns with my goal of building stronger relationships and fostering a culture of open communication within WAPA. 

For more information, please visit the L2I website (Internal access only).