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Earning my Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP) certification is one of the crowning achievements of my professional career. It represents my commitment to excellence in workforce development and has enhanced my credibility as a recruiter and career counselor within the construction industry, particularly in the electrical trade. As a member of the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals, I have significantly expanded my knowledge, skills, and professional expertise, enabling me to better guide both new and experienced candidates through career exploration, identify the competencies required for success, and connect them with financial resources that support apprenticeships, certifications, and lifelong learning. The CWDP certification has strengthened my ability to build a highly skilled workforce while helping individuals achieve rewarding, long-term careers. I take great pride in this accomplishment, as it reflects my dedication to professionalism, continuous learning, and serving others with the highest level of expertise.

— Tony Varamo, ZERP Enterprise Solutions

I’ve become much more confident in understanding and navigating the workforce development system. As a Resource Aide & Business Service Representative at Arizona@Work, I interact with so many different clients that are seeking assistance. I now feel more comfortable answering questions, making referrals, and explaining how our workforce system works.

— Marina Morales, Arizona@Work Southeastern Arizona

The connections built through this cohort have been the most meaningful part of the experience. Having the chance to learn from colleagues across the field has broadened my perspective and strengthened my work.

— Bobbie Robie, GAMM, Incorporated

Becoming a member of NAWDP has been a truly transformative experience for my professional growth. Through its strong network of workforce development professionals, I’ve gained access to valuable insights, best practices, and innovative strategies that have directly enhanced the impact of my work.

— Robert Ingram, WorkSource DeKalb

NAWDP has been a catalyst for my professional evolution, providing deep insights into workforce legislation and an irreplaceable network of passionate experts. My election to the Region 5 Board of Directors allows me to leverage this expertise to represent my region and drive meaningful change from the inside out.

— Shannon Johnson, St. Louis Agency on Training and Employment

NAWDP has helped me find tools and ideas I could bring back to better support my community. Through those connections, I’ve learned how to build stronger relationships with local businesses, design programs that actually reach people who need them most, and better use the strengths of our board. It’s given me a way to not just improve my own work, but help others do the same.

— Ryan Kounovsky, Lane Workforce Partnership

Earning my Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP) credential has not only provided access to valuable training opportunities but also given me the confidence to actively connect with and expand my professional network within the workforce development community. This certification has enhanced my credibility and professional recognition, positioning me as a trusted expert among the clients I serve and strengthening my ability to make a meaningful impact in their career development.

— Wynnie Iga-Lwalanda, ZIL Career Avenue LLC

Earning my CWDP credential provided formal recognition of my experience and expertise, which has enhanced my credibility with both colleagues and business partners. NAWDP continues to be a valuable resource as I lead collaborative workforce initiatives and strive to create lasting impact in my community.

— Dana Sheldon, Anne Arundel Workforce Development Corporation

It is my belief that when you can validate the “what you think to be true” with a credential, that you truly are able to do your job better each and every day. This could not be more true for the CWDP. The validation that I received going through this process allows me to be confident in all settings when talking about workforce development.

— Todd Nielsen, Denver Economic Development & Opportunity

A layer of trust is added to prove my expertise in the industry. A Workforce Developer with this credential is one who has proven their willingness to participate in personal and professional development, and they are abreast of industry trends in real-time.  My CWDP allows me to proudly display my commitment to my profession.

— Reese Broadnax, SWAPDD, Inc.

I earned my CWDP in 2020 and recently renewed my certification. I decided to earn my CWDP because I wanted to expand my knowledge of the workforce system and strengthen my skills in the key areas of business engagement and customer service methodology.

— Janna Taylor, LHRDI

I decided to earn my CWDP in 2015.  I thought it was the best way to demonstrate my understanding of the market and the work that I was doing.

— Jason George, Lightcast

Becoming a CWDP has helped establish my place in the workforce development landscape. It has given me access and authority in different circles, and it provides me with more confidence as an advocate for my staff and participants.

— Erica Davis, Gamm, Incorporated

Membership with NAWDP has been instrumental in maintaining awareness of emerging workforce trends, updates, and best practices. The opportunity to attend this year’s virtual conference further enriched an already exceptional professional resource.

— Dr. Nypheteria Clophus

NAWDP membership has been instrumental in my professional growth. The access to high-quality training, timely industry insights, and a national network of peers has helped me stay ahead of emerging workforce trends.

— Dana Sheldon, Anne Arundel Workforce Development Corporation

In a fast-changing environment, having a centralized space dedicated to elevating, informing, and connecting practitioners is essential. Continued education, access to timely and relevant resources, and opportunities to learn from our peers are critical to staying effective and forward-thinking. That’s exactly what NAWDP provides, making it an incredibly valuable resource for our team and the broader workforce development community.

— Ashley Espinoza, Lane Workforce Partnership

Being part of the NAWDP community has strengthened my ability to empower others by building connections, sharing resources, and amplifying local voices. Through a shared purpose, NAWDP inspires me to encourage leadership, self‑advocacy, and long‑term growth.

— Erica Davis, Gamm, Incorporated

NAWDP membership has provided numerous invaluable resources, networking opportunities, and professional development opportunities that I would not otherwise have had access to. Experiencing all of these benefits in person at the 2025 NAWDP Conference reinvigorated my passion for the work I do.

— Jenn Adams, State of Missouri

NAWDP has helped me quickly build a foundation in workforce development and connect with a community that’s eager to support and share knowledge.

— Sarah Martino, American Society of Safety Professionals