Apply for Cohort 1

We will select a limited number of students, faculty, staff, and alumni from Minnesota institutions for each cohort. This application helps us identify candidates who are ready to commit to the work and participate fully in the program.

*Eligibility is open to students, faculty, staff, and alumni of accredited U.S. educational institutions. Applicants must be U.S. citizens. Selected participants must be able to attend required in-person events in Minnesota at their own expense.

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There are no program or certification fees for selected applicants.

Step 1 of 5

Your Information

Application Requirements for Submission:

  • Two Professional Recommendations
  • Resume
  • Competency Statement
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Step 2 of 5

Background & Goals

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Step 3 of 5

Commitment & Readiness

These questions help us understand whether you are ready for the commitment this program requires.

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Step 4 of 5

Submit 2 Letters of Recommendation

Two letters of recommendation are required. Provide contact information and upload one letter of recommendation (PDF) for each recommender below. Recommenders should be professors, teachers, employers, or supervisors who can speak to your readiness for this program.

Recommendation 1

Recommendation 2

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Step 5 of 5

Documents & Final Review

Upload your resume and competency statement

Describe your relevant skills, experience, and why you are a strong candidate for this program. See guidance below.

What to Include in Your Competency Statement

Your competency statement (1–2 pages) should describe your background and demonstrate the traits that predict success in this program.

Traits That Signal Readiness

  • Action Bias Over Analysis - You execute before feeling “ready.” You send imperfect emails, schedule calls despite impostor syndrome, and request feedback on real work rather than perfecting drafts indefinitely.
  • Coachability Without Ego - You follow proven systems, accept feedback without defensiveness, and implement changes rather than arguing why your way is better. You approach this program as a learner, not an expert.
  • Proactive Communication - You initiate contact, ask questions when stuck rather than disappearing, and submit work for review without being prompted.
  • Persistence Through Rejection - You continue through non-responses, treat “no” as data rather than failure, and maintain consistent effort even when results lag.
  • Speed of Execution - You build momentum. Cohort members who complete training quickly dramatically outperform those who drag it out.
  • Transparency About Struggles - You attend coaching calls and openly discuss what isn't working so the team can troubleshoot and adjust in real time.