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Navy FFR is now accepting applications for the 2026 Leadership In Training cohort, an immersive professional development program designed to grow the next generation of FFR leaders.
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Forging the Future: N9 Academy to Launch in July 2026 to Elevate Visionary Leaders

Person touching a lightbulb and the N9 Academy logo

March 17, 2026 | Story by Naomi Wilkins | Commander, Navy Installations Command | Fleet and Family Readiness 

WASHINGTON – The Navy’s Fleet and Family Readiness (FFR), designated as N9, has announced a significant investment in its civilian leadership with the launch of the new N9 Academy – a six-month hybrid program designed to elevate leadership excellence and promote the mission readiness of Navy warfighters. 

Beginning in July 2026, the N9 Academy is a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening the FFR's human capital infrastructure. The pilot program will select 18 senior leaders across various installations, regions and headquarters locations. The program's innovative structure combines intensive on-site instruction with continuous virtual engagement, ensuring that learning is both focused and flexible. 

FFR’s Training division is spearheading the N9 Academy and recently hosted three online information sessions to provide details to participants eager to learn more about the program’s structure, content and skills they will enhance during the program as well as their ongoing opportunities after completing the Academy.  

“This program really positions participants as leaders who can be tapped to weigh in on complex issues that cross departmental lines,” said Stephanie Patton, Strategic Program Analyst for FFR Training, who is also instrumental in the N9 Academy’s development and implementation.  

The curriculum is designed to be highly interactive and practical, moving beyond theory to engage in senior-level deep dives, explore strategic leadership and decision-making and even participate in military culture shift and wargaming exercises. A central feature of the program will be the capstone project, where participants tackle a real-world challenge from their own command with step-by-step guidance to ensure the outcome is an actionable solution.  

The value of the academy is designed to extend far beyond the six-month curriculum. While the formal instruction of the academy is temporary, the impact is lasting. “Graduates will build trusted relationships with leaders across the N9 portfolio. This network is a powerful resource that they can call on," added Patton.  

The program’s motto, “Forging Leaders, Inspiring with Action,” reflects its core philosophy.  This initiative is designed for leaders ready to share what comes next. “This isn’t just about what you can learn. It’s about what you can share, give back and build. It’s a mastery-level experience designed to forge leaders who inspire with action,” added Patton.  

The N9 Academy pilot program targets senior leaders within FFR from installation, region and headquarters. This includes personnel at the NF-05 and GS 13-15 levels. Recruitment is open March 2 – 31, 2026.  

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