Learning and Professional Development
at the Department of National Defence (DND)
The Department of National Defence is committed to supporting an
educated and knowledgeable workforce and offers a vast array of
learning opportunities to enhance work satisfaction, career building
and employability. At every stage of your career we offer you opportunities
to grow.
Learning activities are offered in both official languages in bilingual
regions. Stay current with the latest trends in your field of interest
or learn more about technology, communications, interpersonal skills,
cultural sensitivity, management and leadership. To gain valuable
skills and experience, you can also take part in special projects
and short-term assignments.
Your DND manager will help you find out what is right for you,
and tell you what funding is available.
Orientation Program
We’ll get you off to a good start with our Orientation program
for new civilian employees. It’s designed to familiarize you
with the Department. Within weeks of your arrival, you will attend
a formal orientation session, in which you will learn about Defence
operations, business strategy and culture. In addition, your manager
or supervisor will talk with you about your personalized learning
plan and explain the performance review process. As part of the
Orientation program, you will also have regular meetings with your
supervisor or manager to discuss your progress.
Defence Learning Network (DLN)
The Defence Learning Network (DLN) is an innovative approach to
continuous learning for DND civilian employees and military members.
It is set to revolutionize the way DND employees and military members
learn and train. The DLN is a dynamic delivery system for “anywhere,
anytime, just-in-time” training that includes using the power
of the Internet. Through the DLN, you will be able to take online
courses from your home, office, and other convenient locations such
as Learning and Career Centres (LCCs). You can even borrow a laptop
computer if you need one.
The DLN encompasses the LCCs which have full-time professional
staff who offer career advice for civilians, and learning and training
services for both civilian and military. LCC staff can help you
with effective job search techniques, learning plans, and resume
and interview preparation. You will also have access to library
resources such as books, videos, audiotapes, and CD-ROMs. You will
be able to participate in discussion groups. The centres also deliver
a multitude of courses you can take to improve your current skills
and performance.
Civilian Personnel Education Support Program
Improve your qualifications by going back to school with DND’s support.
If you are a civilian employee you may be eligible for up to one year of financial
assistance to get a degree, diploma, certificate or accreditation through full-time
studies at a recognized Canadian educational institution. This program allows our
employees the opportunity to attain a higher level of education, while being paid
an allowance equivalent to 100% of their salary, as well as full reimbursement of approved tuition and books!
Management Trainee Program (MTP)
Do you see yourself as a future leader in the Public Service?
MTP is a four-year program aimed at developing high-potential entry-level
candidates for key positions of responsibility in the federal Public
Service. The Program provides hands-on work experience through assignments
with federal departments and agencies in different regions of the
country. DND offers MTP candidates interesting and challenging assignments
in a wide range of areas: international policy, public affairs,
human resources, finance management and environmental protection.
As well, an educational component complements and enhances the experience
acquired on the job. Courses focus on the basic knowledge and skills
required by Public Service managers. When you complete the program,
you will be pre-qualified for a middle manager-level position.
Any civilian employee with a university degree may apply. MTP trainees
are recruited through a yearly competition process administered
by the Public Service Commission. More information is available
at http://www.jobs.gc.ca/mtp-psg/application_e.htm.
Career Assignment Program (CAP)
DND also participates in the federal government’s Career
Assignment Program. The goal of this two-to-four year program is
to identify individuals who have demonstrated executive potential
and to accelerate their development.
Every participant gets a personalized learning plan. The program
begins with a six-week educational component offered through the
Canadian Centre for Management Development. The participant then
moves on to assignments that may provide experience in regional
operations, policy development, work for central agencies, etc.
These work assignments will help you develop the competencies you
need to qualify for an executive level position.
CAP candidates are recruited through an annual competition process.
Financial support is provided for relocation, if necessary. To learn
more about CAP you can visit http://www.psc-cfp.gc.ca/cap/00/00_e.htm.
In addition there are other developmental assignment programs such
as Job Enrichment Training (JET) that may be available.
Learn it/ live it at DND!
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