WCDA History

Washington Career Development Association (WCDA) had existed for many years, but due to low membership numbers and few of those willing to lead, it died in 2007. In 2014, a survey was sent to Washington NCDA members to explore the level of interest in reviving a state-wide career development association. Twenty-eight responded affirmatively. Over the next year, WCDA went from being an idea to a reality. Seven career enthusiasts from around the state met February 20, 2015 and in just four highly productive hours, formulated a vision and plan, hammered out a mission statement and bylaws, and created a board. The goal for WCDA was to be accessible to anyone in the state, inclusive to all interested in career development, and affordable. The mission statement defined our purpose as “to cultivate career knowledge and encourage innovation” and we intended to accomplish this “by providing training opportunities, encouraging collaboration and a sense of community, promoting public understanding, inspiring innovation and research, and raising awareness.” WCDA has grown since then from 7 to more than 70 members. Look below for specific events that have happened in the past. We hope to continue to grow and expand our effectiveness in the coming years.