As part of her Master of Public Administration (MPA) Tribal Governance program, Burnett completed a Graduate Learning Contract titled A Cost and Benefits Analysis of Moving from a 5-Day Work Week to 4 Days. Her research included interviews with QIN employees and a review of national and international case studies. She presented her findings to QIN leadership, highlighting the potential benefits of a 32-hour workweek with no reduction in pay.

Burnett’s analysis drew on examples from organizations such as San Juan County, Iceland, and Japan, where shorter workweeks led to improved recruitment, retention, and employee health. She emphasized how such a shift could support QIN’s strategic goals of promoting employee well-being and cultural heritage, while also addressing regional employment challenges like high local unemployment and recruitment difficulties.

Her work also acknowledged the unique considerations facing QIN, including high living costs, its remote location, and the importance of flexible scheduling to accommodate cultural practices and holidays. On July 14, 2025, the Quinault Indian Nation passed a resolution to implement a 32-hour work week to begin later in the year of 2025.

Burnett’s academic journey culminated in Spring 2024 with her graduation from the MPA Tribal Governance program. Her Capstone project—organizing a Health Sovereignty Fair for Quinault Tribal Elders in May 2024—demonstrated her commitment to community health and culturally responsive leadership. The event featured wellness activities and participation from organizations such as WSU’s Institute for Research and Education to Advance Community Health (IREACH).

Julie Burnett’s work exemplifies how thoughtful policy design rooted in community values can lead to meaningful change in Indigenous governance and employee well-being.