CMA’s Women’s Leadership Academy: Empowering Women in Music [Interview] (2026)

The Women's Leadership Academy (WLA) at the Country Music Association (CMA) has become a beacon of empowerment and community for women in the music industry. This 12-week leadership development program, now in its fifth year, has evolved from a mere professional development opportunity into a transformative experience that fosters lasting relationships and personal growth. The story of the WLA is one of trust-building, community-building, and the power of shared vulnerability, all centered around the idea of creating a safe space for women to support each other.

The brainchild of Tiffany Kerns, CMA's Senior Vice President of Industry Relations and Philanthropy, the WLA emerged from a realization of the industry's lack of professional development resources for women. Kerns, who joined the music industry during a time when HR departments were scarce, understood the need for a supportive environment where women could navigate career transitions, negotiations, and personal challenges. The program's initial challenge was to earn the trust of its participants, many of whom were initially skeptical about the industry's fickle nature. By hand-selecting the first cohort and carefully developing the curriculum, CMA aimed to create a space where women could be transparent and supportive of one another.

The WLA's impact is evident in the strong bonds formed among participants. The program's weekly four-hour sessions, group coaching, and ongoing conversations outside the classroom have fostered a sense of sisterhood and genuine support. Participants have shown up for each other through promotions, job changes, layoffs, and personal struggles, demonstrating the program's ability to create a community that extends far beyond the classroom. The curriculum, guided by executive coaches Lisa Gamble and Nicole Provonchee, focuses on leadership, mental health, and boundaries, pushing participants beyond their comfort zones and encouraging personal and professional growth.

The Academy's reputation within the industry has grown significantly, with participants walking taller and advocating for themselves and other women. The fifth anniversary of the WLA marks a milestone, not just in the program's duration but also in its impact. The launch of the Women's Leadership Academy Alumni Network further solidifies the program's commitment to community and ongoing support. This network provides a platform for mentorship, collaboration, and professional development, ensuring that the connections and lessons learned during the program continue to benefit participants long after their graduation.

As the WLA continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the power of community and the importance of creating safe spaces for women to thrive. Through its unique approach, the program has become more than just a professional development initiative; it has become a catalyst for personal growth, a source of inspiration, and a platform for women to support each other in their journeys. The lasting impact of the WLA is a reminder that sometimes, the most significant changes come from the most vulnerable moments shared within a supportive community.