Washington Youth Academy - NGYCP

08/28/2026

Applying to the Washington Youth ChalleNGe Academy does not have to be complicated. Getting started takes just three steps:
1️⃣ Submit the online application.
2️⃣ Complete the required doctor and dentist forms and gather your documents.
3️⃣ Complete the interview and final review.
Begin early—gathering completed forms and records can take time.

After submitting the application, watch your email carefully for instructions and respond promptly to requests from the WYCA admissions team.

WYCA is a free, 22-week residential program for eligible Washington youth ages 15½–18.

Applications are now open for the class beginning January 11, 2027. Spots are filled first-come, first-served, so families are encouraged to apply early.

Apply here: https://mil.wa.gov/how-to-apply

Questions?
[email protected]
(877) 228-8947

08/28/2026

Know someone who needs a job? We’re hiring! We have positions open for Maintenance Custodian, Counselor, Cadre and a Licensed Practical Nurse. Find all the details at the link:

We accept job applications electronically through our careers webpage. You can also sign up for 'Job Alerts' if you wish to receive email notifications for new job openings in your field of interest.

08/26/2026

Falling behind in school does not mean a young person is incapable. Sometimes, they need a different environment—one built around clear expectations, consistent routines, academics, teamwork, job skills, and personal responsibility.
Swipe through five signs that the Washington Youth ChalleNGe Academy may be the right next step for a young person in your life.

WYCA is a free, 22-week residential program in Bremerton for eligible Washington youth ages 15½–18 who are behind in school, have dropped out, or are at risk of not graduating. Participation is voluntary, and the young person must be ready and willing to commit to the program.

Applications are now open for the class beginning January 11, 2027. Admission is first-come, first-served, so families are encouraged to apply early.

Apply now: https://mil.wa.gov/how-to-apply

Questions?

[email protected]
(877) 228-8947

08/25/2026

WYCA is on the road this September!
Our Outreach & Admission Specialist, Liz and Kelly, will be connecting with schools and community partners throughout Clallam, Jefferson, Mason, Grays Harbor, Kitsap, Lewis, Pierce, and King counties.

We’re also hosting a Professional Tour at 10:00 a.m. on September 16 at our Bremerton campus. Educators, counselors, youth-serving professionals, and community partners are invited to see the

Academy and learn more about the opportunities available to Washington youth.

Register for a Professional Tour:
https://stofwadeptofenterpriseservices.formstack.com/forms/professional_tour

Want WYCA to visit your school or organization?
https://stofwadeptofenterpriseservices.formstack.com/forms/presentation_sign_up

We look forward to connecting with you!

08/24/2026

WYCA Regional Advocates volunteer in their own communities, using their experience, interests, and local knowledge to help cadet graduates navigate employment, education, community resources, and everyday life challenges.

Regional Advocates work alongside WYCA Case Managers and can help multiple cadets build stronger connections within their home communities.

Ready to provide local guidance with lasting impact?
Learn more and apply:
https://mil.wa.gov/regional-advocates

Questions? Contact [email protected].

07/18/2026

We are so happy to announce some senior leadership changes that have been happening at the Academy over the past few weeks. Our new deputy director is Christopher Acuña, who previously served as commandant. Formerly the operations officer, Steve Wood competed and is promoted to the role of commandant. Ayesha Willis, the long-standing Lieutenant for the 3rd Platoon, is the new operations officer. Read the blog for details.

New deputy director, commandant, ops officer named at WYCA Posted on Jul 17, 2026 By Washington Military Administrator There are some exciting senior leadership changes at the Washington Youth ChalleNGe Academy. Director Amy Steinhilber announced that the new deputy director is Christopher Acuña, w...

07/17/2026

Intake Day marks the beginning of something new.

Our newest cadets have arrived at the Washington Youth ChalleNGe Academy and are beginning to settle into their new routines, meet their fellow cadets, and take the first steps of their WYCA journey.

The days ahead will bring structure, challenge, growth, and opportunity—and we’re proud to welcome them as they begin building a stronger future.

Today’s ChalleNGe… Tomorrow’s Success.

07/16/2026

Settling in and starting strong.

Since Monday’s intake day, our newest cadets have already begun adjusting to academy life, learning new routines, and taking their first steps toward greater discipline, confidence, and success.

The first days can bring plenty of change, but they are settling in and doing well. We’re proud of the effort they’re showing and look forward to watching them grow throughout the cycle.

Today’s ChalleNGe… Tomorrow’s Success.

07/11/2026

Final preparations are underway!

From uniforms and boots to school supplies, our team is getting everything ready to welcome the newest cadets of Class 26-2.

Every item represents a step toward structure, growth, responsibility, and a fresh start.

📅 Intake Day is almost here.
We can’t wait to welcome Class 26-2 to the Washington Youth Challenge Academy.