A Message About Training

As we move closer to the end of 2018 and begin to think about what next year brings, I wanted to write a very brief blog post with some tips for success in next year's courses, and a few resources from the Training Division. Training is an important part of any job that can help us perform better on the job, protect us from injury, and even allow us to interact with friends and coworkers from different parks or regions. The tips and resources listed here are available (and encouraged) for your use in the coming year!

• Read the blog.
• If you're reading this, you are right on track! Lots of good resources from apps to training materials to Senior Staff meeting notes can be found here both in current and past blogs. You can help make this resource more effective by starting a conversation! Write your comments in the comments section below each post to make sure your voice is heard.

• Register for training in advance.
• Use the Training Division calendar to register for each class you intend to take. Be sure to show up on time (or early!) and come prepared with any assigned materials.

• Complete required training on time.
• There is a full list of training requirements specific to each classified position at this link. These courses have been designated necessary for all employees in your classification.

• Make sure seasonal personnel complete required training.
• At the beginning of each contract, these employees must complete several online learning courses using Moodle. In order to ensure seasonal employees are registered and signed up for the correct classes online, a classified staff member should contact Sarah Gray (Sarah.Gray@maryland.gov) as soon as hiring paperwork has been completed.

• Give us your input!
• Some MPS classes have evaluations included to assess what you thought of the course. When they are offered, be honest, fair and thorough in your evaluations so improvements can be made. If you have comments about a course but did not receive an evaluation to fill out, send the information to the trainer for that course. 

• Have questions? Check the Training Division website!
• Under the Resources tab, you can find information on the bloodborne pathogen policy, corporate cards, CISM, FMLA, trails, uniforms, and other topics. Commonly used forms can be found at these links as well.
• Under the Training tab, links to the Hub and Moodle are accessible, as well as out-service training information and forms.
• The MPS training policy for inclement weather is located at this link.

If you have other questions, reach out to your friendly trainers or post a comment below!

John Ohler (John.Ohler@maryland.gov)

Maria Reusing (Maria.Reusing@maryland.gov)

Bethany Watts (Bethany.Watts@maryland.gov)
Sarah Gray (Sarah.Gray@maryland.gov)