ARTICLE 8
TRAINING AND CAREER LADDER

Section 1 - Basic Training:
Other than skills necessary to qualify for the position, the Employer agrees to provide each employee with basic training or orientation for the safe and effective performance of his/her job. Such training shall be provided at the Employer’s expense and, if possible, during the employee’s regular workday. If the employee is required to participate in training outside of regular work hours, the employee will be compensated in accordance with the Compensation Units I and 2 Agreement. Continued training shall be within budgetary constraints.

Section 2 - Continued Training Opportunities:
The Employer will encourage and assist employees in obtaining career related training and education outside the Department by collecting and posting current information available on training and educational opportunities. The Employer will inform employees of time or expense assistance the Employer may be able to provide.

Section 3 - Career Ladder:
The parties recognize and endorse the value of employee training and career ladder programs. Both parties subscribe to the principles of providing career development opportunities for employees who demonstrate potential for advancement. The feasibility of upward mobility and training programs for unit employees shall be a proper subject for labor-management meetings. Career ladder promotions when effected, shall be in accordance with DPM Chapter 8, Part II, Subpart 8, and Appendix A.

Section 4 - Experience Verification:
When an institution of higher learning provides credit for on the-job experience, the Employer will, at the request of the employee, provide pertinent information to verify the employee’s experience with the District. The employee shall provide the relevant documents and information necessary for the release of the employee’s information to the relevant institution.

Section 5 - Union Sponsored Career Advancement Programs:
Management and the Union support the objective of meaningful career advancement for District Government workers in the areas of promotion, transfers and filling of vacancies. In keeping with this objective, the Union will investigate and develop programs to enhance opportunities for career advancement such as: career counseling services; placement of career planning resource materials on site; correspondence course arrangements with area colleges, universities, vocational and technical schools; and workshops on resume writing and interview skills.

Programs that are developed will be presented and discussed during appropriate labor management committee meetings for review and consideration.