Wichita State University’s Spero program housed and led by the Barton School of Business is entering its third year after graduating 80 participants across its Career Readiness and Entrepreneurship pathways. Early outcomes indicate that more than 75% of Career Readiness graduates report being employed, while 3 out of 4 Entrepreneurship graduates are operating ventures currently generating revenue.
Spero is the first micro-credential program in WSU’s history and the first 1EdTech TrustEd Micro-credential program in the world. It connects training directly to employment and venture creation through applied learning, employer engagement, and mentorship. Participants complete complementary workforce- and market-oriented training designed to help them secure employment, strengthen career mobility, or launch and grow businesses.
Since launching, Spero has expanded its network to 28 employer partners and more than 20 nonprofit, entrepreneurship, and community organizations that support participants before, during, and after the program.
“As we enter Year 3, we are encouraged by the outcomes we are seeing from participants and alumni,” said Dr. Larisa Genin, dean of Wichita State University’s Barton School of Business. “At its core, Spero is about creating hope for a better future. We are seeing participants secure better employment, launch businesses, and create new possibilities for themselves and their families.”
Applications for Spero Year 3 are now open, with interviews for selected applicants scheduled for July 2026. The next cohort is expected to begin during the week of Aug. 17, 2026, with programming continuing through the week of Dec. 18, 2026.
Interested applicants can submit their applications for:
- Career Readiness at https://wichitastate.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eh8toWwli1RXiZM
- Entrepreneurship at https://wichitastate.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0qBEPTKtYPliQN8
Questions regarding eligibility, program details, or the application process can be directed to spero@wichita.edu.
“What stands out about Spero is that it connects training directly to real opportunities,” said Walter Berry, chair of the Spero Advisory Board. “Participants are not only developing skills. They are building relationships with employers, launching businesses, and creating greater stability for themselves and their families.”
As Spero enters Year 3, program leaders plan to continue strengthening employer partnerships, expanding applied learning opportunities, and building pathways into employment and entrepreneurship across Wichita and the region.
Learn more about Spero at https://www.wichita.edu/spero.