Students are not the only ones learning new things on the campus of the University of Utah. The school’s Department of Training and Development offers a wide range of courses for employees who want to learn new skills, enhance their current abilities, and advance in their careers.
The skills taught in the courses offered are those that people didn’t necessarily learn in college. “All of our trainings are very practically oriented,” said Training and Development Specialist Crystal Cory. “We give participants tools for interacting in the workplace and ways to immediately apply what they have learned.”
Whether someone is just starting out or already in a higher level of management, there are courses for everyone on campus. Workplace Essentials is the most accessible of the certificate programs offered. In this series of six workshops, which is free of cost for U employees, participants learn presentation skills, the basics of giving and receiving feedback, and other important skills for successful office interactions.
“The course felt very approachable,” said Melissa Alexander of University Advancement. “It kept me engaged and gave me information I could actually use.”
There are several courses offered for those who wish to further their careers on a management track. While all these offerings do come with a fee, it can be paid by your department or college, depending on the situation. Also, several have portions of the curriculum available at no cost.
- Supervisor Success is a one-day, high-level overview designed to help those in new roles and covers topics like how to properly delegate, making leadership transitions, and personal development.
- Management Essentials is ideal for those in associate or assistant manager positions and above at the U, whether they have just started in their position or have held it for years. Skills covered include conflict resolution, best hiring practices, and building a culture of trust, among others.
- Director Series is for people who are driving growth and change in the workplace. This is where U employees can learn more about resource management, creating positive work environments, and developing long-term strategic goals.
“It’s very easy to get caught up in the day-to-day issues of your job and not think about professional development,” said Cory. “But regardless of where you’re at in your career, we have trainings that can help you move to the next level, improve your skills, and add to your toolbox.”
