NAWDP developed the Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP) certification using research based on the job requirements of a wide range of workforce development roles. The results have been validated by professionals across the nation in a variety of settings as representative of the skills and competencies required for success in the industry. The 5 Competencies the CWDP is based on are:
Ready to Get Certified?
Elevate your impact, boost your credibility, and stand out in the field of workforce development.
Why Get CWDP Certified
The Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP) sets a national standard for excellence in the workforce development industry. Earning it demonstrates your commitment to your craft, your community, and your clients—and maintaining it ensures you continue to meet the evolving needs of today’s workforce.
Certification is a chance to grow. It’s an opportunity to stay up to date on best practices, deepen your impact, and invest in your continued success as a leader in workforce development.
CWDP Certification Requirements
Applicants must meet EACH of the four requirements to be eligible for certification.
Education & Work Experience
Applicants must have a minimum education level of a High School Diploma or GED
AND have been working as a workforce development professional in 12 out of the last 24 months before applying. Learn more
Core Competency Assessment
Complete an approved reciprocity training course OR pass a 100-question test based on the 5 Competencies of the CWDP. Learn more
NAWDP Membership
Maintain active NAWDP membership each year of your three-year certification period. Become a Member
Approved Reciprocity Trainers
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 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
The CWDP Certification Process
STEP 1:
Complete the CWDP Application Form
You can save your progress and resume work as your schedule allows. Once the application form is completed and submitted, you will receive a confirmation email that you have successfully completed the application, along with a PDF of the completed form. NOTE: This does not complete the application submission process.
STEP 2:
Submit Supporting Documentation
Upload your supporting documents in the designated file upload spaces on the submission page. You will be prompted for payment for the $125 CWDP application fee once you submit. *Application fee is non-refundable.
STEP 3:
Submit Employment Verification Form
Have an Employment Verification Form completed by a representative of your current or former employer and submitted to prove you have a minimum of 12 months experience as a workforce development professional in the last 24 months prior to the date of your CWDP Application. This may include current and former employers to meet the requirement.
Become a Member Today
Join NAWDP to connect with a national network of workforce development professionals committed to excellence. Membership gives you access to training, certifications, and resources that strengthen your expertise and impact.