What is SWE LDP?
The SWE Leadership Development Program (LDP) is an intensive program designed to help collegiate members expand their leadership potential and overall SWE knowledge. Over the course of a year, selected participants engage in monthly meetings, develop relationships with collegiate and professional SWE members, and further expand their leadership abilities through implementation of their learnings. In addition, LDP participants join other collegians at the Collegiate Leadership Institute (CLI) at Society conference for professional development workshops and networking opportunities.
The Rebranding of a Program
During FY20, the SWE LDP was created through the rebranding of the SWE Future Leaders (SWEFL) program. Current Collegiate Director Kelsey Harper met on a routine basis with the FY20 SWEFL Coordinator Gail Dyer, Coordinator-Elects Natalie Hahn and Caeley Looney, and the Collegiate Engagement Taskforce to shape the future of the program.
Previously, the SWEFL program utilized two tracks for participants based on a member’s year in school. Starting in FY21 with the LDP, these tracks will be based off of the overall SWE knowledge of the applicant. Selected participants will be placed in either the “Beginner” or “Advanced” tracks, which have different programming geared towards increasing specific areas of knowledge.
FY21 Programming
The Beginner track for FY21 will cover the following SWE topics: overall structure, programs, tools and resources, preparation for WE20, scholarships and awards, bylaws, branding, ethics, and committees. Leadership development topics include leadership styles, self-management and development, networking, resumes, self-awareness, mentorship vs. sponsorship, emotional intelligence, financial management, interpersonal skills, communication styles, and strategic planning.
The Advanced track for FY21 will cover the following SWE topics: transitioning from collegiate member to professional, the LCC, the Senate, and additional SWE committees for overall exposure. Leadership development topics include leading during change, building relationships, preparing for conference, authenticity and integrity, fostering collaboration, advocacy, strategic planning for both yourself professionally and for your organization, and an industry panel.
How are Members Selected?
In order to be selected for the LDP, interested SWE members must meet a variety of qualifications, including:
- Be an active collegiate member
- Hold a CGPA of 2.5/4.0
- Demonstrate strong leadership potential
- Demonstrate interest in continuing their SWE journey past collegiate section participation
Members who meet these criteria can apply and are evaluated by the program coordinators.
This year, 50 members were selected between the Beginner and Advanced tracks of the LDP. Be sure to keep an eye out for an introduction of this year’s LDP members in the next All Together post!
Related content:
- SWE Needs You! FY22 Call for Nominations
- SWE PDG Committee Now Accepting Applications for FY21 Awards Cycle
- Meet SWE’s FY21 Board of Directors and Board of Trustees
- What I Wish I’d Known Before Taking 3 Student Leadership Positions
