Certified Applied Technical Leader (CATL)

Innovation is at the heart of Leadership. This program is hands-on; our instructors will work with you to cultivate the leader we know you are. This is not a traditional testing program; instead, we will work with you to develop the leadership qualities you need to become certified. Certification requires a thorough demonstration of leadership innovation and long-term success as a result of your innovative approach. If you prefer nontraditional instruction, this program is for you. We are innovating education and training!

A 10-week online course for professionals aiming to lead cross-functional teams in their fields, such as adopting new technologies or improving processes in any field, for example, engineering, manufacturing, Material Logistics, Medical, Facilities Management, or the Trades.

• Target Audience: Seasoned employees, engineers, or tradespeople with 7+ years of experience, aspiring to management or entrepreneurial roles.

• Key Skills:

  • Industry studies, understanding the existing landscape.

  • Leading change management (e.g., introducing new approaches or sustainable practices).

  • Problem-solving and critical thinking for technical challenges.

  • Financial acumen for justifying innovation investments.

  • Building cross-functional teams to drive innovation.

  • Understand and bridge differences in leadership styles between office (strategic, planning-focused) and field (hands-on, operational) roles.

  • Develop communication and collaboration skills to align the office and field teams.

  • Apply leadership strategies to manage projects, teams, and stakeholders across both settings.

  • Foster a unified team culture to improve project outcomes and workplace efficiency.

• Benefits:

  • Positions participants for leadership roles in established companies or startups.

  • Equips professionals to lead transformation in trades (e.g., smart building technologies).

  • Appeals to employers adopting Industry 4.0 or green technologies.

• Delivery: Online video-based scenario learning with case studies (for example, implementing complex initiatives in concert with multiple teams in manufacturing, facilities, and medical) and a final innovation pitch.

• Certification Requirement: Present an effective cross-functional teamwork proposal and pass a peer-reviewed presentation.