Professional and Career Excellence Program (PACE)
Comprehensive leadership development training providing early career and emerging leaders with the skills, networks, and experiences to accelerate their careers across a variety of sectors.
Applications close October 18, 2026
Applications for the 2026/2027 cohort are currently closed.
About PACE
PACE empowers emerging leaders to advance their careers and seize opportunities across a variety of sectors—from academia and healthcare to government, nonprofits, and entrepreneurial ventures. Dr. Kenneth Maynard partners with APA Catalyst to deliver a leadership program that helps you master crucial skills in career planning, strategic networking, negotiation, inclusive leadership, and more.
Through interactive workshops, participants develop the strategic mindset and professional toolkit needed to excel in leadership roles. The program's cohort-based approach ensures personalized attention. Join a selective network of ambitious professionals ready to elevate their impact and accelerate their career trajectory.
Learn more about Dr. Kenneth Maynard.
At A Glance
Format/Location
Six virtual sessions, one two-day in-person kickoff meeting
Duration
6 months
Term
February - August, 2027
dates
In-person kickoff meeting in February 2027
Application Period
Applications for the 2027 cohort will open in September 2026
Costs
$2,000 covers participation in six virtual sessions and an in-person workshop. Lunch is provided during the two-day workshop, along with one networking dinner. Travel, lodging and additional food expenses are not covered.
Who Can Apply
Candidates hold a terminal degree in psychology, mental health, behavioral science, or a related field and are considered early career (obtained degree within the last 10 years).
How To Apply
Applications are currently open.
Click here to apply.
Why Apply?
Accelerate your career
Gain practical tools to build your resume, refine your elevator pitch, and confidently navigate early career transitions. Gain the skills you need to lead confidently.
Lead with Purpose and Impact
Explore leadership strategies, power dynamics, and communication techniques that foster environments where all voices are valued and everyone can contribute their best work. Learn to lead authentically in any setting.
Connect with a dynamic network
Join a multidisciplinary cohort of early career professionals. Build lasting relationships, exchange ideas, and access mentorship through alumni engagement and networking platforms.
As an early career psychologist, it was important for me to connect with others who are navigating similar challenges, such as adjusting to new responsibilities, managing the pressures of work-life balance, and figuring out how to establish my professional identity. Sharing these experiences with others has been incredibly reassuring, as it reminds me that I'm not alone in facing these hurdles.
PACE Participant
Eligibility Requirements
To participate in the PACE program, applicants must:
- Hold a terminal master’s or doctoral degree in psychology, behavioral science, or other mental health related area (e.g., PhD, PsyD, MD, MS, MSW, MPH, etc.)
- Be an early career professional (obtained degree within the last 10 years)
Professionals across mental health and wellness disciplines, including but not limited to psychology, are eligible to participate. Both direct patient care professionals and public health, policy, and nonprofit professionals are encouraged to apply. No additional licensure required if working in a qualifying capacity.
Program Schedule
Kickoff Meeting
February 2027
Location TBA
Session 1: Career Development Plan
March 2027
Virtual
This session helps participants clarify what they want from their careers. Through guided reflection on their values and goals, participants begin developing a strategy for reaching their long-term career objectives.
Session 2: Managing Relationships and Networking
April 2027
Virtual
Meaningful professional connections can strengthen career growth. This session explores key strategies for networking in authentic, intentional ways that build relationships and create results.
Session 3 Feedback: Harnessing career and personal growth & success
May 2027
Virtual
Feedback and performance conversations can be challenging to navigate. This session reframes the feedback process as a tool for growth, helping participants use feedback to strengthen their impact and professional value.
Session 4: Negotiation Skills
June 2027
Virtual
Participants explore key moments in the negotiation process and learn strategies for communicating effectively, advocating for their goals, and navigating complex professional conversations.
session 5: Mastering Strategic and Timeline Priorities
July 2027
Virtual
This session helps participants manage competing priorities, use time more strategically, and focus their energy on work that creates meaningful, lasting impact.
Session 6: TBD
August 2027
Virtual
