• November 7-9, 2024
  • Hyatt Regency of Bellevue
  • Tour & Pre-Conference Workshop Registration Closes October 8 (5:00 p.m. PST)
  • Conference Registration: Closes October 8 (5:00 p.m. PST)
  • Registration Payment Due: November 1

To 
 and Beyond

Success is not a mere destination; it’s an infinite journey where the power of unity knows no bounds.

The conference theme of “Infinity” embodies the idea that success and unity go on forever; igniting DECA members’ aspirations and propelling them to new heights, just like Buzz Lightyear’s, “To Infinity and Beyond!” Our theme is a representation of DECA’s mission to foster growth in entrepreneurship, business, marketing, and leadership – the formula for success.

This year, embrace the spirit of exploration and unity in the face of the limitless universe. With boundless determination, infinite drive, and the unwavering spirit of exploration, at WRLC, we invite you to go beyond your limits. Reach for the stars and beyond.

Get ready to immerse yourself in all the Pacific Northwest has to offer!

We're excited to welcome DECA's Western Region to the 2024 Western Region Leadership Conference!

Scroll through to learn about our conference activities!

Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors!

COMPETITION & INDUSTRY WORKSHOPS

Explore nearly 60 workshops following the tracks of: Entrepreneurship, Career, Competition, Finance, Leadership, and College.

TWO GENERAL SESSIONS

Two keynote speakers who will inspire attendees.

During Closing Session, we'll honor our top WRLC competitors!

l

TESTING COMPETITION & CERTIFICATION LAB

Amplify your resume while at WRLC! Participate in our DECA testing competition to win awards or complete an online certification exam in the area of project management, Microsoft Office, tech, marketing, and lots more!

STATE OFFICER & CHARTERED ASSOCIATION ADVISOR RECEPTION

We look forward to hosting Association State Officers and Chartered Association Advisors for a short reception of networking, DECA updates, and light refreshments.

WESTERN REGION COMPETITION INVITATIONAL

Students will compete for awards in front of volunteer judges. Advisors register students for competition in conference registration. Competition times will be assigned. Each student may participate in one role-play and the mock job interview.

PRINCIPLES OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP INDIVIDUAL SERIES

Role-play events for first-time competitors. Awards will be announced at closing session.

MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS INDIVIDUAL SERIES

Role-play events for experienced competitors. Awards will be announced at closing session.

MOCK JOB INTERVIEW PRACTICE

Students can practice a job interview for a career in the hospitality industry.

ONLINE REGISTRATION

Conference Registration Now Closed

SCHOLARSHIPS

Scholarships for Washington Students

Individual member registration and chapter scholarships are available for Washington chapters.

Scholarship applications due September 18 at 5:00 p.m.

Scholarships for Non-Washington Chapters

These scholarship packages are available for chapters to attend WRLC. Only advisors outside of Washington may apply.

Scholarships are due September 20 at 11:59 p.m. PST 

OFFICIAL CONFERENCE TOURS: NOVEMBER 7

Chapters may pre-register for any one of our four tours in conference registration, open from August 13 – October 8 at 5:00 p.m. PST

All tours will be on Thursday, November 7.

Bellevue Collection Nordstrom

Discover how this iconic retailer drives innovation in fashion, customer service, and business operations—an unforgettable experience for future industry leaders!

Microsoft MakeCode

Unleash your creativity. Build your own games, code cool devices, and even mod Minecraft to make it your own! Whether you’re new to coding or already a pro, MakeCode is fun, easy to use, and packed with endless possibilities.

Discover Salesforce: A Tour for Future Innovators

Are you curious about how technology shapes the future of business? Join us for a dynamic tour of Salesforce, where you’ll explore how this leading customer relationship management (CRM) platform is transforming the way companies connect with their customers. If you are interested in DECA’s Professional Selling Event, this tour is for you! The tour will include what Salesforce is, Real-World Applications, Careers in Tech, and a Q&A session.

Retail Paradise Tour at the Bellevue Collection

Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Bellevue Collection, a premier shopping and dining destination in the heart of Bellevue, Washington! This is an incredible opportunity for high school DECA members to explore the vibrant retail landscape and gain insights into the world of business and marketing. The tour will highlight retail insights, visual merchandising, marketing strategies, and sustainability initiatives.

Pike Place & Seattle Waterfront

Get ready to experience Seattle like a local!

Spend hours roaming the Flying Fish stall and Pike Place Market, leave your mark at the Gum Wall, head down to Miner’s Landing on Pier 56, or ride The Seattle Great Wheel, overlooking stunning views of downtown Seattle and Elliot Bay. Chapters should book their sightseeing and other activities on their own.

This tour will be on Thursday, November 7, with shuttles running from the conference venue to Pike Place Market from 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm. Limited spots available.

Google Kirkland Campus Tour

Step into a behind-the-scenes tour of Google. Discover innovation, dynamic workspaces, and gain insights into tech and business. Ignite your entrepreneurial spirit and explore career paths!

Art Walk: Discover and Explore Creative Vibes!

Embark on an art walk through downtown Bellevue and discover the vibrant world of art from a fresh perspective! As you explore, you’ll learn about the business side of the art world—how artists promote their work, manage their careers, and collaborate with galleries. This immersive experience will open your eyes to the creative and entrepreneurial aspects of the art industry!

Speaker: Lorie Hoffman, Arts & Creative Economy Manager at the City of Bellevue

PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS: NOVEMBER 7

Chapters may pre-register for these exclusive pre-conference workshops, being hosted on-site at the conference venue, Thursday, November 7. 

Workshop start times vary. Limited spots available.

Register for any of these workshops in conference registration, open from August 13 – October 8 at 5:00 p.m. PST

Unlocking Innovation with Lean Manufacturing

Dive into the world of Lean Manufacturing! Discover how this innovative approach helps companies streamline processes, reduce waste, and boost efficiency. Get hands-on experience and see how these cutting-edge techniques could transform your future career and projects!

Speaker: Will Turner, Lean Excellence Manager

Eco-Friendly Choices: The Cool Side of Responsible Sourcing

Experience a behind-the-scenes tour of the Hyatt Regency Bellevue and see how sustainability drives their hospitality practices! Explore the innovative green technologies and eco-friendly initiatives that help the hotel reduce its environmental footprint. Get inspired by the real-world applications of sustainability in the hospitality industry and see how you can make a difference too! This workshop also aligns with this year's Hospitality and Tourism Professional Selling (HTPS).

Create Unforgettable Adventures: Attracting Visitors to Your Destination

Are you ready to unlock the secrets to making any destination irresistible? Join us for an exciting session exploring how to turn YOUR TOWN into a must-visit hotspot! We’ll start with a dynamic overview of Bellevue’s coolest features and hotspots. Then, we’ll dive deep into strategies for captivating a wide range of visitors, from thrill-seekers to culture enthusiasts. Finally, we’ll focus on how to craft personalized, unforgettable experiences for individuals or small groups. Get ready to discover the art of making every visit an adventure and leave with fresh ideas to make your destination the place everyone wants to be!

Speaker: Jane Kantor, Visit Bellevue Destination Sales

Success Signals

Dive into "Success Signals Communication Styles" with Rhonda Hilyer, the #1 conference speaker across the USA, and revolutionize how you interact with everyone around you! Learn cutting-edge strategies to enhance your relationships at home, school, and work, while also gaining an edge in DECA. Ms. Hilyer's expert insights will empower you to communicate more effectively and stand out in any situation!

Speaker: Rhonda Hilyer, President and CEO at Agreement dynamics

Adobe Express Workshop: Create Stunning Visuals with Ease

Unlock your creativity with Adobe Express! In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn how to design professional-quality graphics, social media posts, flyers, and more—without needing advanced design skills. Explore Adobe Express’s intuitive interface and powerful tools for quick, customizable templates, image editing, and brand building. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your visual content, this workshop will equip you with the skills to create impactful designs in minutes.

INDUSTRY WORKSHOPS

Learn more about the conference workshop options! Workshop times will be released late October so you can create your own WRLC schedule!

Leadership Track

  • Lead Like a Woman: Never Apologize for Being a Strong Woman
  • A Dream Too Big!
  • Leadership: Flexible but True to Self
  • Ignite Your Impact and Inspire Change
  • Empowering YOU to Influence and Inspire
  • Leadership in the US ARMY

Competition Track

  • Raise your DECA Test Score!
  • A Speaker’s Toolbox
  • Dress for Success
  • DECA Glass Worthy Presentation
  • Power Up Professional Selling Events
  • All Things CRM
  • Running for State or Executive Office

Finance Track

  • Financial Lock Box Challenge
  • Saving/Investing
  • Fraud Detection and Prevention
  • Strategies to Make the Best College Choice
  • Give Me Some Credit
  • Fraud Busters: Spot It and Stop It
  • Master Budgeting & Saving for What Matters

Technology Track

  • Revolutionize Learning with VR & AI
  • Mastering Social Media for Your Future
  • AI with Alonda
  • Artificial Intelligence: What The Future May Look Like
  • Connect with Customers Everywhere
  • Women In Business Panel
  • SBA Can Boost Your Business Dreams

Adobe Express Make & Take

College Round Tables

Featuring various colleges

Sport & Hospitality Track

  • Responsible Sourcing in Hospitality
  • Hockey for Everyone (Seattle Kraken)
  • Seattle Sounders
  • Alaska Airlines
  • Hospitality: Marketing, PR, & Social Responsibility
  • People Power
  • Microsoft

Entrepreneurship Track

  • Lessons in Living Fearlessly
  • Unlocking Your Inner Business Owner
  • Unlock a Career That Pays to Protect!
  • Seattle Sorbet
  • Turn Your Hobby Into a Business!
  • Put Love at the Center of Work!
  • Business Licensing

Advisor Workshop Track

  • Industry Certifications
  • Unlock Purpose and Productivity
  • Empowering Coaches to Empower Others
  • Put Love Into the Center of Your Work
  • Insure Future Success
  • Debt Slapped – Free Curriculum
  • Beyond Good Intentions – Plans to Impact

Explore Washington

funko pop hq

The 17,000-square-foot flagship store is a hub where fans can gather, connect and experience something truly magical, with areas dedicated to Star Wars, Marvel, Disney, DC, Harry Potter and more. Admission is free and students can create their own Funko POP!

Boeing factory tour

Boeing Future of Flight is one of Washington State’s premier aerospace attractions, welcoming guests to enjoy the Boeing Everett Factory Tour, Gallery, Sky Deck and Boeing Store. Boeing Future of Flight is located 25 miles north of downtown Seattle.

VISIT SNOQUALMIE FALLS

Snoqualmie Falls is a 268-foot waterfall known internationally for its appearance in the television series Twin Peaks.

federal reserve

You’ve never seen this much money: Tour the Federal Reserve’s Renton cash facility and vault.

Book by October 1st! Contact: phuong.mcmanus@sf.frb.org

BILL & MELINDA GATES FOUNDATION DISCOVERY CENTER

Imagine a world where all of us can live healthy and productive lives. Explore their exhibitions, learn about the work of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and its partners, and be inspired to take action on causes you care about.

starbucks reserve roastery

The Roastery is an evolution of the coffee culture, where the company has cultivated new ideas and pushed the boundaries of coffee innovation. The immersive experience is great for those looking for a sip of Washington’s coffee scene.

Columbia Tower Observation Center

No other view truly captures the beauty of the Seattle area. Unmatched view gives you the ability to map out your entire PNW experience: Riding the Great Wheel, shopping in Pike Place, ferrying to Bainbridge Island, and so much more.

cornish college of the arts

Cornish has been a leader of the creative side of Seattle for over 100 years. Their urban campus is in the midst of creative agencies, architecture and design firms, and nonprofits, and walking distance from creative spaces for art and culture.

University of Washington

Gorgeous architecture. Views of Lake Washington and Mount Rainier. The UW is a scenic oasis in an urban setting, where you can study under cherry blossoms, paddle a kayak after class, watch a waterfront football game or read all afternoon in a spectacular library that may remind you of Hogwarts.

WINGS OVER WASHINGTON

W.O.W is currently the most state-of-the-art theater in the world using 5K cameras; innovative art laser projection; drones for image capture; MUSHROOM VR™, and a ground-breaking surround sound system. Once strapped into your theater seat, you will experience an amazing flight across WA.

THE SPHEREs AT AMAZON HQ

Welcoming visitors on Saturdays, The Spheres were envisioned as a place where Amazon workers could “get away from the city” without leaving the neighborhood. With 1,000+ different species of forest plants from around the world, come immerse yourself in a living collection of our planet’s biodiversity.

MUSEUM OF FLIGHT

The MOF is the largest independent, non-profit air/space museum in the world! With 175+ aircraft and spacecraft, tens of thousands of artifacts, millions of rare photographs, dozens of exhibits and experiences, the museum and its people bring mankind’s incredible history of flight to life.

Climate Pledge Arena

Climate Pledge Arena offers 65–75-minute guided tours of the arena and areas that are usually off-limits to the public. Tours include: Team locker rooms, owner’s suite, Amazon Music Lounge, Artists compound, press bridge, and arena history.

THE GUM WALL

The Gum Wall is a brick wall situated beneath Pike Place Market in Downtown Seattle. Located on Post Alley steps from Pike Place Market, your chapter is invited to leave some gum-chewing history behind at our local landmark!

FREMONT TROLL

The Roastery is an evolution of the coffee culture, where the company has cultivated new ideas and pushed the boundaries of coffee innovation. The immersive experience is great for those looking for a sip of Washington’s coffee scene.

SPACE NEEDLE

The Space Needle is an observation tower considered to be an icon of the city and designated a Seattle landmark. Step out and experience two levels of thrilling views of Seattle, Puget Sound, Mount Rainier and beyond.

T-MOBILE PARK

Visit T-Mobile Park for a “behind the seams” experience and visit areas normally restricted to fans on this 75 minute walking tour. Tour stops may include the Owners’ Suite, Warning Track, Muckleshoot Interview Room,  Rooftop Boardwalk and Mariners Hall of Fame.

SEATTLE AQUARIUM

 Explore the exquisite biodiversity of a reef ecosystem in the Coral Triangle, come face-to-face with sharks, rays, schooling fish, mangroves, seagrasses and 30 species of coral. The aquarium’s newly built Ocean Pavilion is an exciting new way to discover the PNW’s aquatic life.

SUPERGRAPHICS

Located near the Starbucks headquarters, SuperGraphics is a large format printer specializing in experiential graphics for environments, retail, event, and fleet. They invented the car wrap. Small private tours can be arranged by contacting info@wadeca.org.

SEATTLE PINBALL MUSEUM

The Seattle Pinball Museum is proud to present a collection of over 50 pinball machines from 1960 to present day. Our games are arranged in chronological order to allow visitors to journey through the decades of American pop culture and pinball history.

MoPOP

The Museum of Pop Culture is a nonprofit museum dedicated to contemporary popular culture. It is home to the worlds most immersive pop culture experiences, showcasing iconic moments in TV, rock n roll music, science fiction, and much more.

Chihuly Garden and Glass

Chihuly Garden and Glass is an exhibit in the Seattle Center directly next to the Space Needle, showcasing the studio glass of Dale Chihuly.

SEATTLE UNIVERSITY

Seattle University is a modern, progressive, and global Jesuit Catholic university in the heart of tech-heavy Seattle’s eclectic Capitol Hill neighborhood.

nordstrom downtown flagship store

Small private tours can be arranged by contacting info@wadeca.org.

ARGOSY TOUR

A Harbor Cruise is a unique and fun way to enjoy Seattle from the water! During this 1-hour narrated cruise, you’ll see all of the beauty and history of the Emerald City. From the skyline to the shipping port, there’s views and history everyone will enjoy.

GET INVOLVED

When an individual, company, foundation or group supports Washington DECA, they are making a long-term investment in developing the future leaders in marketing, management, and entrepreneurship. Learn how you can cultivate a strong and thriving environment for Washington DECA’s emerging leaders.