Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Ivy Tech Community College Kosciusko County is expanding its Applied Organizational Leadership Studies (AOLS) Certificate program for the 2026–27 academic year, providing 25 fully funded spots for students who live and/or work in Kosciusko County.
This 18-credit-hour certificate program can be completed in less than a year and is offered through a partnership between Ivy Tech Community College, the Don Wood Foundation, OrthoWorx and KEDCO (Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation). The initiative was created to address a local leadership development gap by providing accessible, college-level learning for emerging leaders and supervisors.
"Leadership development remains one of our employers’ top workforce needs,” said Allyn Decker, vice president, operations and engagement. “The AOLS program helps emerging leaders build practical management skills in a cohort model, with no cost to employees or employers."
Employers across Kosciusko County have identified a growing need for leadership training as organizations work to develop talent from within. The AOLS Certificate helps participants build the skills needed to lead teams, navigate organizational challenges and support workplace growth, according to a news release from Ivy Tech.
Following the success of the inaugural cohort, which offered 10 fully funded spots, the program has expanded to serve 25 students.
“The AOLS Certificate from Ivy Tech has had meaningful impact on my role as warehouse manager,” said Samantha Stewart, graduate of the AOLS certificate program. “It strengthened my communication skills and helped me lead with greater confidence while creating a more productive and positive work environment.”
The certificate consists of six courses:
• Applied Theories of Management & Leadership
• Organizational Culture & Change Leadership
• Followership
• Team Leadership & Conflict Resolution
• Multicultural Leadership
• Leadership & Personal Development
Classes meet Tuesdays from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. and are primarily held in person at Ivy Tech Kosciusko County.
Tuition sponsorship is available for 25 eligible students. Those interested in applying should contact Ethan Wright at ewright194@ivytech.edu or learn more about the program by visiting IvyTech.edu/aols
