Virtually all Institute courses address competencies required by the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) designation as CWDP. Courses that address the competencies can help you qualify for initial certification and/or meet your needs for continuing education hours to maintain your certification.
| Competency |
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Description |
History and Structure of the Workforce Development System |
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Understands the history and structure of the nation's multiple workforce development programs and how this impacts the current system. Is able to relate public workforce development policy, initiatives and funding sources with the current system. Is able to interpret current laws and structure to deliver appropriate services, and understands how their own work impacts the system's goals. |
Career Development Process |
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Understands the process by which individuals: 1) define their career goals; 2) prepare for, search for, and retain employment; 3) build skills, advance, and change employment. Is able to identify the kinds of information individuals need in order to make realistic career decisions and where that information can be found. Knows what skills are needed to search for, obtain, retain and change employment. |
Labor Market Information (LMI) |
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Understands the kinds of labor market information available and the uses of such information. Is able to access, analyze and use local, state and national electronic and non-electronic LMI delivery systems. |
Diversity |
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Understands the special employment needs of diverse groups. Is able to adapt materials and services to address these needs. |
Customer Service |
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Understands who are the principle customers of the workforce development system. Is able to identify their needs and expectations and what constitutes positive customer satisfaction. Places appropriate emphasis on "excellence" and "speed of response" in work performance. |
Program Management |
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Understands how programs are designed to use appropriate service strategies to meet program goals. Understands how budgets are developed and costs are tracked for individual programs. Is able to use indicators and established instruments to document program performance and outcomes. |
Communications |
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Has good listening skills and is able to write clearly, including writing a good memo. Is able to speak to single individuals or large groups, in order to teach, inform or persuade. |
Technology |
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Understands basic computer technology used in workforce development. Is able to demonstrate proficiency or understanding of various computer software applications and the Internet. |
Collaboration and Problem Solving |
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Understands the basic principles of teamwork. Is able to deal with customers, colleagues, agencies and partner associates in a positive, professional manner. Is knowledgeable about the range of services in the community, and develops and maintains relationships with partners to deliver a comprehensive array of services to customers. |
Business and Employer Knowledge |
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Understands business and employer needs, how the private economy works, the concepts of profit and loss and return on investment (ROI), recruitment and retention of workers and the role of workforce development in economic development. |
