Workforce development is a direct approach to revitalizing a region’s economic stability. Unlike other methods of economic stimulation, this person-centered approach focuses on the needs of the people of the community, rather than the businesses, taking into account the barriers faced by community members as well as the overall needs of the region. It quite literally transforms its participants into skilled job candidates, ready to hit the ground running.
The heroes performing this important, transformative work often take on their day-to-day jobs armed with a big heart and some basic training on the best way to connect with the population. But in some outlying and marginalized populations, including those experiencing homelessness or recently exiting the department of corrections, workforce development efforts become exponentially more difficult.
Developing a standard
In order to provide a suite of skills useful for these workforce development professionals, the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) created the Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP) certification. This credential was built using research based on the job requirements of a wide range of workforce development roles.
In order to achieve CWDP certification, applicants must demonstrate knowledge of five competencies, which professionals across the country have identified as prerequisites for success in the workforce development industry. These competencies consist of Customer Service Methodology, Diversity in Workforce Development, Labor Market Information and Intelligence, Principles of Communication and Workforce Development Structure, Policies and Programs. This can be fulfilled either by completing an approved training course, or successfully passing a 100-question test.
Besides proving their understanding of the five competencies, applicants must also demonstrate that they meet education and recent work experience requirements, including a minimum education level of a High School Diploma or GED. They must also have spent at least 12 out of the last 24 months working as a workforce development professional, as well as maintain a membership with the NAWDP and adherence to a code of professional ethics.
Standing out from the crowd
Earning CWDP certification is not a requirement to landing a workforce development position. Rather, it is a nationally recognized and portable professional credential that helps workforce development professionals stand out in their field, especially to those making hiring, promotion, salary and bonus decisions. Besides the set of useful skills that come along with CWDP certification, accredited professionals also have access to a nationwide network of Dynamic Works workforce professional colleagues that can provide valuable support throughout their careers.
Once completed, CWDP certification is valid for three years, after which it must be renewed. Recertification involves completing 60 hours of professional development in the five core competency areas with documentation.
Dynamic Works Institute has the knowledge and experience necessary to deliver quality CWDP training in the five competencies for both certification and recertification. In addition, our mix of live and asynchronous online training fit into the busiest schedules and are backed by industry-leading customer service to ensure you get the most out of the experience.
For more information about CWDP certification or recertification, contact us today.
Date: 11/10/22
