FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 20, 2026
CONTACT:
Amanda Sawney
asawney@wict.org
The WICT Network Announces the 2026 Rising Leaders Program Cohort
The WICT Network is thrilled to announce the latest wave of participants selected for the 2026 Rising Leaders Program (RLP). This premier initiative is for high potential managers and directors across media, entertainment, technology, sports and gaming.
Chosen through a competitive selection process, this year’s April and June cohorts were reviewed by a panel of industry leaders and Rising Leaders Program alumni.
Designed for professionals preparing to step into broader leadership responsibility, the Rising Leaders Program helps participants strengthen strategic thinking, expand their leadership impact and build the skills needed to lead teams and navigate change with confidence. The curriculum focuses on key areas of modern leadership, including decision making, influence and team effectiveness.
“Leadership requires more than strong execution. It requires the ability to think strategically, advocate for resources and lead with intention,” said Jessa Cooke, Senior Vice President, Educational Programs. “The Rising Leaders Program helps participants make that shift and prepares them to lead at the next level.”
Applications for the November cohort of the 2026 Rising Leaders Program are open. Visit The WICT Network website to learn more about the application process and program requirements.
The WICT Network gratefully acknowledges Comcast NBCUniversal for its continued support as the Silver Sponsor of the Rising Leaders Program.
The following companies are represented in April and June cohorts of the 2026 Rising Leaders Program:
- A+E Global Media
- Arcadyan Technology Corporation
- Cable One
- Charter Communications (including Spectrum Reach)
- Cisco Systems
- Comcast (including Comcast Advertising, Comcast Business, Comcast Corporation, FreeWheel, and Xumo)
- Cox Communications
- CSG International
- GCI
- Hallmark Media
- NBCUniversal
- Netflix
- Paramount
- The Walt Disney Company (including ESPN)
Visit The WICT Network website for a complete list of participants, their biographies and more information about the Rising Leaders Program.
About The WICT Network – Empowering Women across Media, Entertainment & Technology
The WICT Network is a global organization advancing leaders and future leaders across media, entertainment, technology, sports, gaming and adjacent industries. Our mission is to elevate the workforce by empowering and educating individuals through high-impact professional development programs, original gender research and a B2B network that supports talent development and advancement. For almost 50 years, The WICT Network has partnered with top companies and key stakeholders to strengthen the leadership pipeline. Founded in 1979 to advance women in cable television, The WICT Network has transformed into a digital powerhouse serving nearly 10,000 individuals through 24 domestic and international chapters, making The WICT Network the largest and oldest professional association of our kind. Charter Communications, Comcast NBCUniversal, The Walt Disney Company, Warner Bros. Discovery and NCTA Education Foundation are The WICT Network’s Strategic Touchstone Partners. To learn more about the organization and our research, visit www.wict.org and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn (@WICTHQ).
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