Program offers federal workers channel for growth

Published 12:00 am Sunday, August 2, 2009

About 247 high-ranking U.S. government employees in Vicksburg may register for the Civilian Talent Management Program, which aims to make them more marketable at Army installations around the world.

The August presentation will offer upper-level workers professional development, said a release from Linda Donaldson, executive director of CTM, based in the Washington, D.C., area.

The presentation does not guarantee a promotion or pay raise, but allows workers to move from their current position to another — if they meet qualifications, said CTM civilian career adviser Kirk Carter Jr.

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Vicksburg, which has one of the largest populations of high-ranking government employees in the nation, will be one of 25 sites nationwide hosting more than 11,000 people.

High-level government employees often receive training and career opportunities less competitive than that of generals and colonels, said Jill Mueller, strategic communications director for the U.S. Army Civilian Development Office.

The program “will give us more diverse leaders,” she said. “We want leaders as agile and dynamic as we need them to be.”

Within the next week, eligible employees will be invited to register for the presentation, set for 9 a.m. Aug. 13-14 in the multipurpose room at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Vicksburg District building on Clay Street. Advisers will answer questions, provide direction for career growth and help attendees meet the Army’s requirements for leadership.

“Over time, Army leadership has learned that there needs to be somewhat of a parity in development for Army civilians,” Donaldson said in the release.

The system will bring high-level employees to a status similar to that of colonels and generals. It will also make them eligible for Senior Executive Service, a group of executives selected for their leadership qualifications who serve in key positions just below presidential appointees.

“Those who want to be considered for a position are chosen by commanders or a higher-ranking authority,” said Mueller. “Opportunities are limited only by the individual’s potential and desire.”

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Contact Tish Butts at tbutts@vicksburgpost.com