Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays for my professional development?
What is a professional association?
How do I register for an event?
How do I find out about PD opportunities?
When is Orientation?
What if I need extra or special training?
How do I get other questions answered regarding professional development?
Who pays for my professional development?
There are several ways that the registration, travel and per diem costs for professional development are paid for in the WSU Extension system. Each of the four districts has funds that are specifically earmarked for professional development activities. Usually you need to have a Professional Development plan in place that has been approved by either your County Director or your District Director to access these funds. Some counties have funds available for Professional Development. Your county director will know if there are funds available through this source. Some Extension faculty use funds they have generated through grants, contracts, and salary accruals for professional development activities. Some activities such as graduate school are a personal investment, but there may be assistance available through employee fee waivers and scholarships. back to top
What is a professional association?
Within Extension, professional associations are both interdisciplinary as well as supporting the professional development within disciplines. Currently there are several associations which provide both training and professional development through involvement in the association such as holding an elected office and working with colleagues on various committees. Please visit the links area to obtain information on specific associations and membership contacts. back to top
How do I register for an event?
Each event will have specific registration requirements that can be found within the event notification information. back to top
How do I find out about PD opportunities?
There are several options for discovering PD opportunities. The PD department provides information through a monthly e-newsletter; periodic emails to the “all extension” list serve; and through this website. Professional Development opportunities are also listed on the various calendars that are found on this website. You can also explore PD opportunities by asking your district director or county director. WSU Extension sponsors several conferences on a regular basis that provide options for PD.
Professional Development opportunities are offered on each of the WSU campuses and online through WSU Human Resource Services. back to top
When is orientation?
Orientation is a process which begins with this web page. Other parts of the orientation process include an on campus visit to discuss benefits and meet key personnel. Your direct supervisor will assist you in scheduling this piece of orientation. If you cannot attend the WSU Pullman benefits orientation you can attend at one of the urban campuses (WSU Spokane, WSU Vancouver or WSU Tri-Cities) or on line through WSU Human Resource Services.
Each August WSU Extension and the College of Agriculture, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS) host a week long in-depth orientation that you will want to attend. Talk to your direct supervisor about attending this orientation. back to top
What if I need extra or special training?
Please evaluate your skills and plan your professional development accordingly. Ultimately, you are responsible for your own professional development. A professional development plan can assist in building a successful long-term career. WSU Extension offers many opportunities for training.
Please take the time to read the professional development emails and e-newsletter as it arrives and regularly review this website. There are also many opportunities through various conferences and workshops offered throughout Washington State University and the WSU Extension system. Additionally you can request special training from your Regional Director. back to top
How do I get other questions answered regarding professional development?
Contact Jim Lindstrom, Director, Professional Development at (509) 358-7871 or email jlindstr@wsu.edu. back to top
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