Given that one-of-a-kind complex projects require innovation, learning is a precondition of success. Over a span of more than two decades, APPEL has developed a three-level approach for addressing the learning needs of NASA's project and engineering workforce. By focusing on individuals, teams, and organizational knowledge as a whole, the Academy creates multiple “touch points” for professional development. In the process, individuals build their competencies skills, teams get the support they need in the field, and the agency matures as a learning organization. Below is an excerpt from NASA’s Journey to Project Management Excellence by APPEL Director Dr. Ed Hoffman and APPEL communications lead Matt Kohut.