March 9 - 10, 2026

This two-day, live, online workshop is designed specifically for city and county elected officials seeking to strengthen leadership capacity, foster collaboration, and build public trust. Through interactive modules, participants will explore practical tools for shaping positive organizational culture, enhancing intergovernmental cooperation, and delivering measurable value to constituents. The workshop blends strategic insight with real-world application, grounded in principles of organizational development and civic accountability.

Washington Counties Risk Pool (WCRP) is providing scholarship support for this course. Entity limits and course limits for scholarships may apply. Scholarships are first come first served. The Results Group Ltd will bill WCRP directly, and students must complete the training to avoid replaying the WCRP for the paid tuition. Those wishing to take advantage of the offer are asked to contact your county risk manager to request the registration code before you register. To learn if you are a WCRP member or if you have questions about scholarship opportunities available to WCRP members, please contact memberservices@wcrp.wa.gov.

Day 1: Foundations and Collaboration

• The importance of defining community-based outcomes: Understanding why clear, community-focused goals are essential for effective leadership and measurable impact.

• Obstacles to overcome: Identifying common challenges elected officials face and strategies to navigate them successfully.

• Principles of organizational development: Exploring foundational concepts that drive healthy, adaptive, and resilient organizations.

Day 2: Creating Value and Organizational Development

• Collaboration is not a weakness: Challenging misconceptions and highlighting how teamwork strengthens leadership and outcomes.

• Promoting community support and public perceptions: Techniques for building trust and positive engagement with constituents.

• An action plan for "Where to from here?": Crafting actionable steps to sustain momentum and drive future progress.

This workshop is non-partisan and designed to equip elected officials with tools that transcend political cycles. Participants leave with actionable strategies, shared language, and renewed clarity about their leadership role in shaping the future of their communities.

Technology & Participation: Each participant must use a computer or laptop with both a camera and a microphone. A roster is maintained for compliance and documentation. To earn the Certificate of Completion, participants must attend both days. If an unavoidable conflict arises, contact the instructor directly to discuss options.

Materials: All participants will receive copies of the course materials and a Certificate of Completion.

Check out Steve's books by clicking the cover.

“In a social media world where influencers like Simon Sinek and Jocko Willink appeal to the masses (myself included), I submit to you the original author and organizational guru preaching ownership and pragmatic leadership...Stephen L. Kent. There are so many books and tutorials on leadership, and there are certainly many perspectives and personalities to match. But if you despise falling into the trap of a victim mentality and want a reminder or initial lesson on why public service is a noble calling worthy of your full efforts, look no further. In a manner that fires you up, Kent lays out the framework for success masterfully. Full five stars for this book, especially if you work in law enforcement and feel discouraged or are going through burnout and need recharged.” - Bart, Senior Decision Maker

“Direct and unapologetically straightforward, Steve Kent does not burn up time trying to get you to like him or feel good about yourself. Rather, he provides you with a straightforward model to achieve an effective culture in your organization that will position you for success whether you're a law enforcement professional or in any other field of endeavor that spends other peoples' money. I couldn't recommend a better "must read" for the aspiring or veteran public servant.” - EB, Major General, Retired