This committee develops programs for all monthly meetings and conferences. This committee also plans workshop/seminar programs for the professional development of members - an important goal in the Association’s strategic plan. This committee organizes the fall conference and a spring professional development program. The Professional Development and Program Committee is considered the “workhorse” of the Association. Members are expected to attend approximately 7 to 8 meetings per year and work on program development activities between meetings. It is expected that individual members of the committee will assume the responsibility for planning one or two of the monthly meeting programs after the topics have been identified. Service on this committee is a great opportunity for members to actively participate and often serves as a stepping stone to service on the Executive Committee.
One of the greatest values we get from our association is the commitment to continuing education and professional development. The committee has focused monthly meeting programs on issues that are topical and allow peers to share best practices and lessons learned from their experiences. The fall and spring conferences are highlighted by ICMA University workshops or similar caliber educational seminars, as well as an opportunity for reflection and to build relationships with colleagues. Seminars are chosen based on the needs of Massachusetts managers as reflected by the results of the ICMA applied needs assessment tool and on recommendations of colleagues. In the past two years, we have added in September or October an introductory boot camp to provide a “nuts ‘n bolts” overview of key topics for first-time and aspiring administrators.
The committee endeavors to provide programs that will appeal to the broadest range of our members, regardless of membership in ICMA, geographic region of the state, budget limitations, experience in the profession, and position held. We continuously evaluate and modify as necessary our offerings and format to reflect the interest of members through surveys and consultation with the Executive Committee.
