ABSTRACT
For certification/credential owners, professional development and continuing education are mandated. The Standard path is to attend education sessions that count toward continuing education requirements, submit the forms for credit, and pay renewal fees. Virtually every credentialing organization will count time spent attending or preparing presentations for an internal community of practice if it’s related to the certification. Done well, a community of practice will improve the skills for those in its realm. It is also an excellent opportunity to identify and engage internal resources interested in increasing their knowledge and value, preparing a bench of worthwhile candidates ready to step in and backfill an opening. Committing to an hour a week of continuing education will pay back many times over in discovered efficiencies, gained skills, a growing network, and career advancement.
