Partners Program

The ACT-IAC Partners program is unlike any other leadership development program and provides participants with:

• A facilitated open and trusted partnership with a 1 to 1 ratio between government and industry who collaborate in a not for attribution environment that allows team to “walk in others' shoes”
• Enhanced leadership and communication skills to help drive your team and organization towards better results
• Experiential leadership training based on OPM’s Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs)
• Opportunity to collaborate with other executives facing similar challenges
• Collaborating to provide leadership sessions for your cohort on topical issues
• Led by practicing senior government and industry professionals
• Up to 75 Continuous Learning Points

The successful Partner will:

• Have in general 15+ years of experience in progressively responsible positions across a multitude of business activities – including, but not limited to, program/project management, technology management, financial management, procurement, business development, and marketing.
• For Government-Candidates should be a GS 15 (or a High Step 14) or equivalent (minimum gate for consideration); currently serving in a leadership role that deals with significant people issues, multiple processes, and complex technologies. The candidate should be considered promotable to the highest level of Government leadership such as SES within the next 3-5 years.
• For Industry-Candidates should currently be serving in a leadership role that deals with significant people issues, multiple processes, and complex technologies, and be promotable to corporate officer levels at the VP, S.VP. President, COO, CTO, CIO, and CEO levels within the next 3-5 years.
• Candidates who have recently “switched” from government to industry or industry to government, should have 2 years of experience “on the other side” as the program is designed to share what it is like to walk in each others’ shoes.
• Be able to dedicate an average of 20-25 hours per month for Partner activities between March and October and attend all required sessions in person.
• Be recommended by a Sponsor within their organization or agency

Participant fee is $4950 for government and $5995 for industry. This includes all meals, facilities and overnight accommodations for two off-sites outside of the DC area, and registration and accommodation for the Executive Leadership Conference in October. ACT-IAC understands and is accustomed to helping agencies navigate uncertain budgets, for more information contact Leslie Barry, Director of Professional Development at [email protected]. 

*Please note only one person per industry member company should apply and can be accepted.  Industry applicants must be from a member company in good standing

This is a highly competitive program and agencies/companies are encouraged to nominate only their strongest candidates.

Applications for the 2024 Partners program are NOW CLOSED - Applications will open for the Partners 2025 in late October, 2024. 

After graduation, individuals become a member of the ACT-IAC Fellows community – the premier, trusted collaborative network of over 1,200 accomplished government and industry executives focused on solving governments toughest challenges.

“Great program! Impossible to describe the benefits you will get.”
Todd Lennox, USDA, Partners 2023 Graduate  

“What a rare opportunity to forge such meaningful relationships across government and industry!”
Jeremy Arensdorf, Jefferson Consulting, Partners 2023 Graduate     

“I am honored to be a member of the Partners Program Class of 2023 and to be associated with such a diverse and accomplished group of government and industry leaders. The program’s shared learning environment creates a close-knit sense of community -- bridging the government and industry perspectives -- that will remain with us for the rest of our careers.”
Joel Lundy, GSA  , Partners 2023 Graduate      

“An excellent leadership program that focuses on your personal development and engaging in a broader network to collaborate, learn, and problem solve. Incredibly valuable!
Kent Colwell, ASRC Federal, Partners 2023 Graduate         

“Learn about yourself, others and your future path toward leadership success!”
Richelle Wright, VA, Partners 2023 Graduate 

“’The greatest gift you can give yourself is a little bit of your own attention.’ Anthony DeAngelo. This has been one of the best experiences of my entire career and has allowed for amazing connections and conversations that will drive the future of government and industry collaboration.”
Jenny Bonner, Riva Solutions, Partners 2023 Graduate         

“The ACT-IAC partners program is more than just a professional development program. It's the program you don't know you need, and it's worth every second of your time.”
Nathan Manzotti, GSA, Partners 2023 Graduate        

“The Partners Program is not a training program - it's a leadership experience that results in genuine, trusted, and long-term relationships.”
Keri Gentilcore, NTT Data, Partners 2023 Graduate   

“Partners Program has helped me build a coalition of diverse leaders in the federal government and government contracting space who are motivated by effecting positive change for citizen experience. I am thrilled to have met the folks in my class and I look forward to staying engaged as a fellow.”
Ankur Saini, DOT, Partners 2023 Graduate       

“The Partners program builds trust and understanding between sectors.  I gained practical leadership skills and forged lifelong connections that I will carry with me. I'm excited to pay it forward as an ACT-IAC Fellow.”
Venu Naguboyina, Navitas Business Consulting, Partners 2023 Graduate          

“It's better than you imagine.”
Pauline George, Department of Labor, Partners 2023 Graduate   

“This program is completely different than any other professional development program available. This program is not a sit at the table and do some exercises in a workbook or hear a guest speaker for a couple of days. ACT-IAC has put together an incredible 8 month learning and professional growth program which provides growth opportunities for everyone.”

Jeff Pendry, SAIC, Partners 2022 Graduate

“The ACT-IAC Partners Program was unexpectedly delightful for me. I knew the program would be great based on the ACT-IAC reputation, but I didn't fully anticipate the new relationships through networking that have already positively impacted my work and will continue to do so for years to come.” 

Nikki Miller, NASA, Partners 2022 Graduate

“The Partners Program was so much more than I expected.  Pairing historical lessons of key government time periods and activities with modern leadership paradigms was unexpected and very valuable. The perspective sharing from government to industry is unparalleled in any other program I have participated in. I will use these skills every day in my career and life.” 

Lisa Zellers, Arbor Consulting Group, Partners 2022 Graduate

“A well thought out program that brings leaders from Govt and Industry together not to just develop their leadership skills but to truly learn from each other.” 

Jaime Martinez, GSA, Partners 2022 Graduate

“For me, the biggest value I've received from the Partners program is the relationships I've built and the knowledge I've gained from my fellow industry and government leaders.  I highly recommend this program to any and all leaders wanting to rapidly grow both personally and professionally.  It's a really well thought out program, and I've had a lot of fun along the way.”

Erika Flora, Beyond20, Partners 2022 Graduate

“This was an amazing experience and opened my eyes to what we achieve across government and industry.  I appreciate the opportunity to participate.” 

Nanci Downey, FBI, Partners 2022 Graduate

"Best executive leadership development program I've done in years!"

Katharine Day, BAH, Partners 2022 Graduate

“I read all of the testimonials before I told my supervisor I would like to try it. Not sure you can truly explain how amazing this program is in words.  You must actually do it. What you experience will not only change your approach to leadership, it also will change your approach to your life.  My only issue is that I want it to last longer! Partners 2022 Graduate is the best group of people.” 

Anna Brown, GSA, Partners 2022 Graduate

“The Partners Program was a fantastic experience where I was able to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of our government. Learning leadership lessons with government and industry colleagues and discussions it led to was unparalleled. I am walking away with lifelong friendships and a network that I can reach out to anytime.”   

Fatima Akhtar, IBM, Partners 2022 Graduate

“One of the best leadership courses I have taken thus far in my career. It truly fulfills its primary objective of learning how Government and Industry can better understand each other and collaborate to meet the government's mission and objectives. The chance to network with fellow leaders from both industry and government is invaluable.” 

Shariff Mohsin, Kaizen Solutions Group, Partners 2022 Graduate

“The Partners Program is a unique opportunity - so much more than just a learning environment - it is a growth journey; challenging what you think you know about yourself and those on the other side in the best ways possible.”   

Kelly Moore, USDA, Partners 2022 Graduate

“Participating in the Partners 2022 Graduate is one of the best experiences of my life. I learned a lot of practical leadership lessons from the government and industry chairs and made long lasting friendships with many 2022 cohort members. I am excited to be an ACT-IAC Fellow and excited to see what is next on the horizon. I would highly recommend Partners program to anyone who wants to take their career to the next level.” 

Shashi Goli, Navitas Business Consulting, Partners 2022 Graduate

“It's been said that of all the skills of leadership, listening is the most valuable, and I was heartened to see this was a component of the ACT-IAC Partners 22 program.” 

Matt McDermott, Smithsonian, Partners 2022 Graduate

“The Partners Program is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be forever connected with change makers from across Government and Industry. I am excited to see what we accomplish years from now, and won't soon forget the many lessons learned through the Program. I fulsomely encourage high potential leaders within industry and government to broaden their horizons though the ACT-IAC Partners Program.”   

Bryant Stewart, AT&T, Partners 2022 Graduate

“Partners can be a transformative experience if you participate fully and intentionally. I feel that almost every moment spent socializing, listening and learning was well spent. It could take years to gather the industry insight, relationships and career knowledge that we got during this program.”  

Sabrina Colwell, USCIS, Partners 2022 Graduate

“The ACT-IAC Partners Program has provided me with increased optimism and an enhanced perspective about what the government and industry can achieve together through collaboration and partnering.” 

Meaghan Carter, Gunnison Consulting, Partners 2022 Graduate

“The best part of the Partner's program was the people I met. They made me laugh.  They surprised me. And they make me optimistic about what we can achieve together.”  

Christy Hermansen, GSA, Partners 2022 Graduate

“The ACT-IAC Partners program was a wholly immersive experience that breaks down common barriers between government and industry and allows us to learn from one another and benefit from a robust and thoughtful curriculum designed to build the leaders of tomorrow.” 

Tom Coleman, RiverNorth, Partners 2022 Graduate

“One of the best leadership development programs I have attended. It will win over even the most skeptical participant.” 

Dan Crosson, USDA, Partners 2021 Graduate

“The program allowed me the space and opportunity to re-imagine the relationship between government and industry that is more collaborative and productive.” 

Urvashi Malhotra, Changeis, Inc., Partners 2021 Graduate

“By far the most impactful leadership and networking experience of my career.” 

Nikki Mounts, DOJ, Partners 2021 Graduate

“Hands down, the best professional development program I have ever done.” 

Jenn Folsom, ICF, Partners 2021 Graduate

"Partner 2021 - A great opportunity in a truly collaborative environment that can help hone your leadership skills and insight.” 

Josh Shleien, USCIS, Partners 2021 Graduate

“The ACT- IAC Partners Program is a life and career changing event. It will exceed your expectations and is worthy of your time and attention.” 

Paul Hives, Perspecta, Partners 2021 Graduate

“Partners 2021 provided participants an opportunity for personal and professional leadership growth evolving over 10 months of fabulously jam-packed events and activities. P21's leadership team promoted communications and learning through a carefully crafted environment of safety and trust. I highly recommend the program, process, and team. I look forward to endless future opportunities and engagements.” 

Allison Wolff, US Navy, Partners 2021 Graduate

“My goal in joining the Partners Program was to gain insight into responsibilities of my government colleagues, so that I could better position myself, my team and my company to serve the government better.  My participation in the program definitely yielded the insights I was hoping for, and more. In addition to the understanding government goals and challenges better, I had invaluable opportunities to grow my skills as a leader, as a teammate, and as a Partner in the delivery of government solutions.” 

Barb Volkman, Artlin Consulting, Partners 2021 Graduate

“Empathy is under-rated. This program prompts us to walk a mile in the other person's shoes, and then to sit down next to the other side (be it "government" or "industry") and figure out how to make it across the finish line.” 

Robyn Rees, DOI, Partners 2021 Graduate

“Partners 2021 - A circle of trust - from complete strangers to a forever network.” 

Kendra Bittle, Dev Technology, Partners 2021 Graduate

“Buy a bigger toolbox, because you will be adding plenty of new and shiny tools to your leadership collection.” 

Tina Cox, DHS, Partners 2021 Graduate

“The Partners Program created a safe place where we as leaders could be open, honest, vulnerable, brave, bold, trust the process and bring our talent to table with enough seats for all.” 

Tiffany Bailey, NuAxis, Partners 2021 Graduate

“Great collaboration experience.” 

Doris Gibson, HHS, Partners 2021 Graduate

“Partners 2021 gave me a leadership tool belt and filled it with some practical tools to use at my own leadership workbench.” 

Laura Cooper, DOD, Partners 2021 Graduate

“Partners provided me with an opportunity to stretch myself personally and professionally with peers who are all motivated to make government work better for the people.”  

Josh Bailes, Collabralink, Partners 2021 Graduate

“This is a unique capstone experience for senior leaders. The return on investment of your time is immediate from day one. You have the opportunity to network and learn from your peers in public and private industry in a fun, challenging and fast paced environment.” 

Robyn Towles, DHS-TSA, Partners 2021 Graduate

“A must for every leader. It helped identify leadership strengths and strategies to become a good leader!” 

Raminder Saluja, Karsun Solutions, Partners 2021 Graduate

“The Partners Program has allowed me to gain valuable insights from my federal and industry colleagues on real world challenges.” 

Melissa Ash, NRC, Partners 2021 Graduate

“Partners breaks down our professional barriers, not only to others, but to ourselves, and allows us the opportunity to remake ourselves with the benefit of vulnerability and honesty from those leaders were are partnered with.” 

Tim Gilday, GDIT, Partners 2021 Graduate

“While I've participated in many training and professional development programs, ACT-IAC provided me with the most tangible results.  It's not often one can have the opportunity to partner with industry, gain new perspectives, have access to quality speakers and activities, and make connections with amazing leaders in government and industry. What an awesome experience!” 

Marquita Washington, GSA, Partners 2021 Graduate

“It was a great experience, and even more personal engagement because of the pandemic.”

Ellery Taylor, GSA, Partners 2020 Graduate

“The Partner's program greatly exceeded my expectations during the pandemic. In an environment where people are physically disconnected, I felt more intimately connected with my partner, my POD/Team, and the overall Partners class. This was a difficult task to accomplish but the leadership team and the class met the challenges head-on and I believe we came out a stronger and better bonded cohort.” 

Evan Lee, ICF, Partners 2020 Graduate

“The Partners Program provides an opportunity to create a safe space where government and industry can exchange ideas and learn from each other.”

Marcy Almeida, IRS, Partners 2020 Graduate

“I wasn't too sure what to expect out of the program. I came out of it more confident, better connected and well prepared to be a leader. This program will stretch your capabilities and I was glad I came with such an open mind.”

Atash Mehta, DOL, Partners 2020 Graduate

"Partners 2020 was an unforgettable experience, not just for the unprecedented challenges we faced, but for what this class overcame together.  Thank you ACT-IAC for bringing this top notch group of leaders together and fostering our leadership development - definitely the highlight of my 2020!" 

Jeff Wehner, LMI, Partners 2020 Graduate

“Incredible moments of growth happen when you least expect it. Be prepared to be hungry, intrigued and engaged.” 

Pooja Sangwan, Attain, Partners 2020 Graduate

“Partners 2020 forever changed my perspective on how government and industry work together; through strong connections and honest conversation, I've gained a true appreciation for how we can partner together to address
inefficiency and improve outcomes.”

Kristen Wilson, GSA, Partners 2020 Graduate

“This is an outstanding leadership development program. For industry and government leaders alike, the networking and learning opportunities were invaluable”

Karen Shrum, VBA, Partners 2020 Graduate

“Partners 2020 delivered many valuable experiences, skills and relationships that I will take forward as I progress in my career. Additionally, we gained exposure to a variety of government and industry executives through our classmates, the planned sessions, as well as the Breakfast series. Lots of value packed into a focused, hard-hitting program!” 

Lisa Gardner, Leidos, Partners 2020 Graduate

“This was an awesome and inspiring experience to have been given the opportunity to be involved in the ACT/IAC Partners program. I'm looking forward to being actively involved and be a positive representative of ACT/IAC.” 

Thomas Booker, Bureau of the Fiscal Service, Partners 2020 Graduate

"As a participant in the ACT-IAC Partners program I walked away from the experience with a greater awareness and understanding of the challenges facing government and industry.  The journey of the cohort through the Partners program brings leaders together to take on difficult tasks, share experiences, and lessons learned. In addition to advancing government, the result is enduring growth as a leader and lasting connections with other leaders in the community doing great work."

Jay Houghton, Department of Justice, Partners 2018 Graduate

“The Partners program is about making meaningful connections building strong bonds between industry and government. I so valued the friendships I made over the course of the program. In fact, I stay in contact with many of the Fellows/Partners today, tapping into their experiences, knowledge and expertise and enjoying their friendship, humor and diverse opinion and thought."

Kitty Nix, AWS Professional Services, Partners 2018 Graduate

“Participating in the ACT-IAC Partners Program was an awesome experience!  What I appreciated most was engaging industry partners to learn about how they go about responding to solicitations and sharing with them the thinking that the government puts into RFP development and contractor debriefings.  The Partners breakfast themes were all based on real world challenges that participants could apply to their work real time.   It was just a wonderful opportunity and I’m so proud to be one of ACT-IAC’s newest Fellows!”

Dina T. Jeffers, Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army (Procurement), Partners 2017 Graduate 

“The ACT-IAC Partners program is unique in its ability to bring executives from the highest levels of both government and industry together with the future leaders in the Federal IT community to openly share knowledge, experiences, and leadership lessons in a meaningful way. I was continually impressed by the level of discourse throughout the program, not only during the course of our formal events but also during the informal discussions that would take place between the members of the Partners class and its leadership, as well. I learned a lot during the course of the year, and look forward to continuing the Partners journey as an active member of the ACT-IAC Fellows community.”

Paul Chandler, General Dynamics IT, Partners 2017 Graduate 

Alicia Miller IRS   Ankur Saini DOT-FMCSA   Darryle Stephens Dev Technology Group   Emily Pereira Sivulka GovCIO   Everlean Rutherford GSA   Francisco Hernandez Capgemini   Janelle Billingslea HHS   Janis Garcia Keating Wilco Group, LLC   Jannine Wilkinson GSA   Jason Marceau Karsun Solutions   Jenny Bonner RIVA Solutions   Jeremy Arensdorf Jefferson Consulting   Joanne Neukirchen FEMA   Joel Imholte Tripoint Solutions   Joel Lundy GSA   Ju (Josh) Lim IRS   Julie Sapp Jameson Cole Consulting   Kent Colwell ASRC Federal

Keri Gentilcore Acuity, Inc   Mary Martinez Cisco Systems   Melody Harrell NSF   Natascha Syre Smithsonian   Nathan Manzotti GSA   Pauline George DOL   Reshma Devkaran GDIT   Richelle Wright Veterans Affairs   Satyaveer Satvat GSA   Sean McDonald Booz Allen Hamilton   Shannon Perkins EPA   Sireesha Deena InfoPact   Steve Kanen FCC   Todd Lennox USDA   Urvesh Shah SAIC   Valarie Tran GSA   Venu Naguboyina Navitas Business Consulting   Zhen Xiao Leidos