NextWave Federal Finance Leadership Program
Unlock your leadership potential to inspire, empower, and drive impactful change.
The application period for the 2023 program is now closed. Congratulations to the inaugural 2022 Cohort!
Overview
“If you’re looking for an opportunity to develop your professional network, be challenged in a thought-provoking way, and serve as a change agent by supporting the transformation of the federal finance community, then this is the leadership program for you.”
W. Curtis McNeil, RIMS-CRIMP-FED, LSSGB
Risk Management Office
Integrated Risk Management Division, Architect of the Capitol
NextWave Inaugural Cohort Graduate 2022
The NextWave Federal Finance Leadership Program (NextWave) is a transformative journey that empowers experienced GS 13-15s (or equivalent) in federal financial management to become visionary leaders. This program offers a platform for forward-thinking individuals to redefine the finance function within the federal government.
Program Experience
NextWave consists of three phases, combining educational sessions, interactive engagement with federal CFOs/DCFOs, and self-reflection exercises. Participants will also collaborate on a team capstone project to simulate real-life transformation opportunities. Additionally, participants can earn up to 6 CPE credits throughout the program.
Phase 1: Better Me
- Participants embark on a self-discovery journey, identifying their unique personas and exploring the attributes that align with their personal and professional growth. By nurturing a transformative mindset, individuals lay the foundation for their leadership development.
- Time commitment: 2 educational sessions (lectures) and 1 interactive session - approximately 12 hours
Phase 2: Better Us
- Participants reimagine the role of finance within the federal government, envisioning how OCFO functions can deliver greater value to employees and key stakeholders. This phase encourages innovative thinking and challenges the status quo, fostering a culture of excellence.
- Time commitment: 2-3 educational sessions (lectures) and 1 interactive session - approximately 12 hours
Phase 3: Better Working World
- Seasoned executives share their invaluable experiences and insights, revealing the strategies they employed to drive change throughout their careers. Participants gain invaluable wisdom from these leaders, empowering them to become catalysts for transformation.
- Time commitment: 2 educational sessions (lectures) and 1 interactive session – approximately 12 hours
Capstone Group Project
- Participants integrate their newfound knowledge and experiences into an executive presentation and actionable report, addressing complex challenges faced by today's financial organizations. This collaborative team project provides an opportunity to apply their learning and achieve transformational success.
- Time commitment: Interactive team assignment - approximately 28 hours

Application Process and Fee
The application period for the 2024 program will open in September 2023. Acceptance into the program is limited to a maximum of 30 individuals.
AGA is proud to offer this leadership program at no charge with the support of our Corporate Partner, EY.
Questions? Please contact Susan Fritzlen.