The goal of Non-Commissioned Member Professional Development is to facilitate the development of military professionals who serve Canada and are devoted to the Profession of Arms.

Developmental Period

A Developmental Period is a time frame in one's career during which individuals, through a combination of training, experience and educational opportunities, increase their professional skills and knowledge.

Developmental Period 1

Developmental Period (DP) 1 is the period where personnel are socialized into the Profession of Arms, and given the initial skills and knowledge to become effective members of the profession. DP 1 includes the Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) Course for new entries to the CF. Upon successful completion of the BMQ, the candidates proceed to their respective Environmental and Occupational Qualification training.

Developmental Period 2

DP 2 is the period where personnel hone their skills as members of small teams in the military profession. DP 2 focuses on Unit Employment and Occupational Qualification to CPL/LS. For those appointed to a MCpl/MS rank, this period is capped by the Primary Leadership Qualification (PLQ) Course instructed at various Training Establishments.

Developmental Period 3

DP 3 is the period where an emphasis on small team leadership is added to the technical expertise of one's military occupation. After gaining continued experience as a MCpl/MS and Sgt/PO2 in DP3, members who are appointed to the rank of WO/PO1 receive the Intermediate Leadership Qualification (ILQ), prior to moving into DP 4 and the rank of WO/PO1.

Developmental Period 4

DP 4 is the period where the emphasis is on increasingly complex technical expertise, and leadership at the sub-unit level. In DP 4 the member continues to gain experience and if merit listed to MWO/CPO2 attend the Advanced Leadership Qualification (ALQ).

Developmental Period 5

At DP 5, the emphasis is on leadership at the unit level. As guardians of the Profession of Arms for the NCM Corps, CWO/CPO1's are called upon to practise institutional leadership, indirectly influencing policies which will determine the future of the profession. Merit listed MWO/CPO2s will next complete the Chief Warrant Officer Qualification (CQC). Selected CWOs/CPO1s will next progress to Senior Appointments (SA).