UCAR LEADERSHIP ACADEMY FAQ's

Q: What happened to the Leadership Academy Action Learning Projects?

A: The intent of the L/A Action Learning Projects required in previous years, was to provide participants opportunities to practice the skills and learnings of the program with real-time projects. The revised Academy program has replaced the projects with nominal, yet insightful, field work activities and integrative discussion sessions.

Q: I'm not currently a supervisor, but hope to be someday, can I still participate in the Leadership Academy?

A: Yes. The Academy is open to current and possible future leaders.

Q: Doesn't the Leadership Academy take a lot of time?

A: Yes and No! Participation in the L/A should be viewed as an investment - an investment in yourself! The revised L/A schedule is spread out over an 8-month timeframe, with classes/sessions meeting an average of 3-5 days per month - significantly less time per month than previous Academy programs.

Q: Who are the trainers for the program, what are their credentials?

A: Our main partners in the design, development and teaching of the Academy is Chain Reaction Partners, Inc., ( http://www.chainreactionpartners.com/home2.html ) a team of leadership development experts with over 20 years of experience. Additional valued partners include: Mountain States Employers Council (MSEC - http://www.msec.org/ ), a non-profit membership organization, with services in management development, legal & compensation resources; plus a variety of invaluable, in-house financial, business, human resources, legal and corporate content experts.

Q: How did the Leadership Academy get started?

A: Launched in 2003 as part of the President's Council's Developing Our Human Capital initiative, it continues to serve as UCAR's premier leadership development program. Over 120 employees have enhanced their careers and made significant, meaningful organizational contributions by participating in the program. The Academy is constantly reviewed and updated with the latest research and innovation, and its longevity is testament to the enduring relevance and impact of self-discovery on leadership development.

Q: Why is there a cost to attend the Leadership Academy?

A: As with all development/training programs, there are significant costs involved. However, when compared to similar leadership development programs, UCAR's L/A costs are very reasonable, and we strive to keep costs as low as possible The costs are shared between divisions/programs and F&A/Human Resources.

Q: What are the costs to participate in the Academy?

A: Divisions/programs contribute $1,850/pp; F&A/Human Resources contributes $1,500/pp.

Q: What's included in my Academy tuition?

A: Tuition covers all trainer fees, one-on-one private coaching, program materials, customized assessments, personalized development plans, peer mentors, guidance/feedback, awards, kickoff & graduation refreshments, as well as continuous design enhancements/improvements to keep the program current, relevant and fresh for current and upcoming participants.

Q: How do I get into the Leadership Academy?

A: Discuss your career goals and development plans with your supervisor/manager. Academy participants must be nominated by their Lab/Division Directors, final approvals are made by the President's Council.

Q: When are final selections made and how will we be notified?

A: Final selections will be made by October 1st. Candidates will be notified along with their supervisors/directors at that time.

Q: How many people can participate in the program?

A: The Academy is capped at 24, wait lists are kept for future programs.

Q: How often is the Academy held?

A: Once per year

Q: What if I can't attend all the classes due to prior commitments?

A: the Leadership Academy schedule is posted along with nomination solicitations. Every session in the program is designed to build from the previous one. For optimum benefit for you and co-participants, you are expected to attend all sessions. However, should an unexpected emergency arise, you just need let us know.

Q: Will I be promoted once I complete the Leadership Academy?

A: There are no automatic guarantees for advancement by participating in the Academy. However, by participating, you will develop and build valuable skills, and knowledge that could enhance your current and future career goals.

Q: Who is the main contact for the Leadership Academy?

A: Cheryl Cristanelli, UCAR Training& Development Specialist, UCAR Human Resources, oversees the Leadership Academy Program: x8708, cherylc@ucar.edu . Additional contact: Michelle Darveau, Generalist/Training Manager, Human Resources, x8703, mdarveau@ucar.edu.