Please submit information on upcoming training courses to Bill_Halainen@nps.gov. New listings and revisions are in bold face. Please note that the calendar now includes ongoing on-line training offerings, which will be posted for about a month at a time.

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Online Training

NPS Fundamentals I: NPS Mission and History. A cornerstone for your NPS career. Learn online at your own pace about the history of the NPS, how the NPS is organized, and how the NPS fits into the federal government. Registration: DOI Learn https://doilearn.doi.gov/. Cost: free. Completion of this course is required for NPS Fundamentals II: Introduction to NPS Operations (training held at Grand Canyon for permanent and term NPS employees). NPS Fundamentals website: http://www.nps.gov/training/fund/index.htm. Contacts:  Mark Harner, (928-638-7983, Mark_Harner @nps.gov) or Debbie Cox, (304-535-6277, Debbie Cox @nps.gov).

NPS Fundamentals III: NPS Career Management and Retirement Planning. Look ahead in your NPS career and eventual retirement. Learn online at your own pace about career and retirement planning, including sessions on advancing in your chosen career path, financial planning, insurance, and making healthy lifestyle choices.Registration: DOI Learn https://doilearn.doi.gov/. Cost: free. NPS Fundamentals website: http://www.nps.gov/training/fund/index.htm. . Contacts:  Mark Harner, (928-638-7983, Mark_Harner @nps.gov) or Debbie Cox, (304-535-6277, Debbie Cox @nps.gov).

NPS Fundamentals IV: Managing Work Life in the NPS. What are the expected legal and ethical behaviors of NPS employees? Why should diversity matter to you? What can you do to ensure a safe work environment? Get these questions answered and more in this online course studying public ethics, diversity, and safety in the NPS. Registration: DOI Learn https://doilearn.doi.gov/. Cost: free. NPS Fundamentals website: http://www.nps.gov/training/fund/index.htm. . Contacts:  Mark Harner, (928-638-7983, Mark_Harner @nps.gov) or Debbie Cox, (304-535-6277, Debbie Cox @nps.gov).

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Other Online Course Listings

EMS Training. The Branch of Emergency Services is announcing various levels of emergency medical services (EMS) training. This is offered to NPS employees at no cost by the Air National Guard. A list of offerings and dates are located  under the "Training" link on the NPS EMS InsideNPS website (http://inside.nps.gov/waso/waso.cfm?prg=177&lv=3). If you wish to attend one of the listed sessions, please contact Bob Wightman at 865-436-1261 or bob_wightman@nps.gov.  He will provide additional details about the courses and will put you in touch with ANG Liaison.

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Scheduled Training

November 2 – November 6 – Archeological Resources Protection Training Program (XP-ARPTP-102), Jean Lafitte NHHP&P, New Orleans, LA. This 37-hour FLETC course provides training in all aspects of an archeological investigation and subsequent prosecution of the crimes. The class culminates in a 12-hour archeological crime scene practical exercise where law enforcement officers and archeologist work as a team to investigate and document a crime scene. Attendees will gather and process physical evidence, write incident reports, executive summaries, search warrants, damage assessments, and provide testimony in a courtroom scenario. Open to all  sworn law enforcement officers, prosecutors and federal archeologist. All NPS applicants should contact Wiley Golden at 912-267-2246 for registration. All others should contact their national academy representatives at FLETC.  Contact FLETC senior instructor Charles Louke at 912-280-5188 for course information.

November 9 – November 13 – Backcountry Tactics and Tracking Training, Carlsbad, NM. Students who successfully complete this training will be able to apply tactical tracking skills in remote backcountry settings and urban environments. These skills will aid in search and rescue operations, locating missing persons, border security, poaching, and fugitive apprehension. Tuition: $600, including meals, lodging, weapons, and tactical gear with the exception of personal gear. The program is offering tuition free training to agencies with 50 officers or less and a population of 50,000 or less. For more info, contact the program managers at 575-748-8088 or 575-746-5875 (phones), 575-748-8171 (fax), or FLETC-Artesia@dhs.gov (email).

November 16 – November 20 – Equipment Operator Safety, Hawaii Volcanoes NP, HI.  This course will examine the risks of operating heavy equipment and steps required to minimize them. Topics include an in-depth examination of dangers of heavy equipment operations, pre-shift inspection, loading, unloading and transportation.  Participants will demonstrate proper pre-shift inspection and safe operating skills in the field on equipment commonly found in park operations.  Participants will gain insights on how to establish park practices and procedures that provide a framework for compliance and actions they should incorporate into their park’s operations. To Apply:  Log on to DOI Learn and search the catalog for "mnt7" without the quotation marks to find the class.  Contact: Steve Hastings 301-663-8206 x134 or Dorothy Printup 301-663-8206 x101

November 17 – November 19 – California Condor Outreach Workshop, Grand Canyon NP, AZ. This workshop is intended to provide an opportunity for any individual working in California condor country to learn and share information about one of the world’s rarest birds.  Workshop participants will be provided with the latest information on California condor populations and lead reduction efforts as well as project updates.  In addition, participants will share effective communication methods and techniques and work together to develop a common language for communicating with the public.  For more information, or to register to participate in the workshop, contact Rosa Palarino at 928-638-7904 or via email at rosa_palarino@nps.gov.  

November 18 – Commercial Services Program Monthly Chat: "NPS Commercial Services Program Chat with the Chief," 3 p.m. EST. An hour-long workshop is held each month on a commercial services topic.  For more information, log onto the NPS Commercial Services chat website: http://inside.nps.gov/waso/waso.cfm?prg=1197&lv=4 Questions or suggestions on these sessions should be directed to Doug Hawthorne (303-987-6908).

November 20 – Executive Leadership Seminar for Park and Public Managers. November 20th is the deadline for applying for scholarships for this course, which will be held from April 27th to May 7th at the Institute at the Golden Gate in San Francisco, UC Merced and Yosemite National Park. The context surrounding parks and protected areas is rapidly changing. Climate change, habitat loss, suburban and urban encroachment, increased fire severity, budget constraints and countless other problems pose challenges that require careful analysis and sophisticated solutions by leaders. There is an immediate need for effective leadership training for the stewards of the world’s natural and cultural heritage. Thanks to the joint efforts of the University of California, Merced, the National Park Service, the Institute at the Golden Gate, the Great Valley Center, and the National Parks Conservation Association’s Center for Park Management that need will soon be filled. These public agencies have created an 11-day intensive management seminar on leadership, innovation, and organization renewal that will provide valuable training for international executive-level managers of parks and protected areas. Participants will meet industry leaders and innovative thinkers with expertise in leadership and park management, and will be able to form a network of global public land management leaders. There is space for 24 participants and approximately half will be National Park Service leaders; early application is highly recommended. For information on applying and on scholarships, click on http://parkleadership.ucmerced.edu/

November 30 – December 3 – Intermediate Carpentry Skills, William Penn Mott Jr. Training Center - Annex, Pacific Grove CA. Intermediate carpentry skills is a transitional-level training program designed to meet the needs of the semi-skilled park maintenance worker. Program content includes an introduction to plan reading, the Uniform Building Code, care and uses of stationary power tools, wall and roof system framing, installing doors and windows and the installation of common roofing materials.   For information on the Mott Training Center and their curriculum -- which is accreted through the University of California -- click here:   http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=21793   To apply employees must log on to DOI Learn  (https://doilearn.doi.gov/).  Click on the Catalog tab, then Catalog and search for "mnt4" (without the quotation marks).  Supervisory approval is required so please let your supervisor know you have applied.  The Servicewide Training and Development program will pay tuition ($1,200).  "Tuition" includes all class costs plus lodging and meals from Sunday supper through Friday lunch.  The only cost to your park is the travel to central California (the Monterey peninsula).  Contact: Steve Hastings 301-663-8206 x134 or Dorothy Printup 301-663-8206 x101

November 30 – December 4 – Equipment Operator Safety, San Antonio Missions NHP, TX. This course will examine the risks of operating heavy equipment and steps required to minimize them. Topics include an in-depth examination of dangers of heavy equipment operations, pre-shift inspection, loading, unloading and transportation.  Participants will demonstrate proper pre-shift inspection and safe operating skills in the field on equipment commonly found in park operations.  Participants will gain insights on how to establish park practices and procedures that provide a framework for compliance and actions they should incorporate into their park’s operations. To Apply:  Log on to DOI Learn and search the catalog for "mnt7" without the quotation marks to find the class;  Contact: Steve Hastings 301-663-8206 x134 or Dorothy Printup 301-663-8206 x101

December 6 – December 7 – Operational Leadership Training, Wyndham Hotel, Gettysburg, PA. This Operational Leadership workshop will be held prior to the 2009 Ranger Rendezvous. Operational Leadership is a nationwide effort to transform the NPS into one of the safest federal agencies through an improved capacity to lead, assess risk and significantly reduce accidents, injury and fatality rates, thus improving morale, productivity and employee wellness. The course will begin at 1:00 p.m. December 6th and be completed by noon December 7th. The class will end in time for Rendezvous participants to take the afternoon tour of Gettysburg NMP. This course is open to all disciplines and can count toward the annual 40 hour supervisory requirements. Please contact Rebecca Harriett at (304) 535-6224 or e:mail rebecca_harriett@nps.gov to sign up. There is no fee, but phone or e:mail registration is required no later than November 20th.

December 7 – December 11 – Backcountry Tactics and Tracking Training, Carlsbad, NM. Students who successfully complete this training will be able to apply tactical tracking skills in remote backcountry settings and urban environments. These skills will aid in search and rescue operations, locating missing persons, border security, poaching, and fugitive apprehension. Tuition: $600, including meals, lodging, weapons, and tactical gear with the exception of personal gear. The program is offering tuition free training to agencies with 50 officers or less and a population of 50,000 or less. For more info, contact the program managers at 575-748-8088 or 575-746-5875 (phones), 575-748-8171 (fax), or FLETC-Artesia@dhs.gov (email).

December 9 – December 11 – Multijurisdictional Counterdrug Task Force Training: Patrol Interdiction, Padre Island NS, TX. The training will focus on durg interdiction stemming from vehicle stops. Topics will include detecting deception, contraband concealment and vehicle searches. This course will assist officers in drug-related cases from inception to courtroom. Free. Travel and per diem will be the responsibility of attendees. If interested, please contact Matt Rosselot via Lotus Notes or at 361-949-9238. Email is preferred. Seating is limited, so reserve a spot early.

December 14 – December 18 – NPS Structural Fire Officer, Lake Mead NRA, NV. This course will provide selected candidates with technical knowledge and leadership skills essential for command and control of structural fire emergencies using the incident command system. Individuals are introduced to the management skills of preplanning, communications, decision-making, fire attack strategies/tactics and logistical support functions. Skills are reinforced and evaluated through dynamic group sessions and video simulations. This course requires the ability to function in an ICS Command Position. The closing date is November 14th. For further information, contact the Mark Gorman at 605-433-5230 or check the website at http://inside.nps.gov/waso/training.cfm?lv=3&prg=358.    

December 18 – NPS Facility Manager Leaders Program. December 18th is the deadline for applications for this program, which runs from May 17, 2010, through April 15, 2011. The objective is to develop facility managers to lead the NPS in the careful stewardship and protection of its assets. The curriculum is designed to develop and strengthen the knowledge and competencies of the selected NPS employees through a year-long education and training program that proactively builds capabilities in asset management, operations and maintenance, project management, resource stewardship, business management and supervision and leadership. No tuition. Travel and per diem to be paid by either a WASO or a regional account, to be determined after selection to the program. This is a competency-based training opportunity; it is not an intake program.  The candidates selected for this program will be enrolled in a year-long study program involving 20 to 28 weeks of study, classes and activities. The required attendance dates are: May 17-21, 2010; October 18-29, 2010; and April 11-15, 2011.  Candidates will be notified of acceptance or non-selection by March 1st. Apply on DOI Learn, where a URL for completing the on-line application will be provided.  The class identifier is NPS-2010-0517-SACN-FMLP.  The course is NPS-MNT5000.  Applicants will be put on a waiting list (Wait List) until they are officially selected for the class. The course coordinator is Betsy Dodson, Park Facility Management Division, WASO (843-856-3531).

January 4 – January 15 – Law Enforcement Driver Instructor Training Program, FLETC, Glynco, GA. The deadline for applications is November 13th. For more information, please click on http://inside.nps.gov/waso/custommenu.cfm?v=37PRG=574&ID=4024

January 4 – January 15 – Law Enforcement Instructor Training, FLETC, Glynco, GA. The deadline for applications is November 13th. For more information, please click on http://inside.nps.gov/waso/custommenu.cfm?v=37PRG=574&ID=4024 .

January 5 – March 25 – Criminal Investigator Training, FLETC, Glynco, GA. The deadline for applications is November 17th. For more information, please click on http://inside.nps.gov/waso/custommenu.cfm?v=37PRG=574&ID=4024 .

January 25 – February 5 – Firearms Instructor Training, Cheltenham, MD. The deadline for applications is November 17th. For more information, please click on http://inside.nps.gov/waso/custommenu.cfm?v=37PRG=574&ID=4024 .

January 25 – February 5 – Physical Security Training, FLETC, Glynco, GA. The deadline for applications is November 17th. For more information, please click on http://inside.nps.gov/waso/custommenu.cfm?v=37PRG=574&ID=4024 .

January 25 – February 5 – Law Enforcement Instructor Training, FLETC, Glynco, GA. The deadline for applications is November 17th. For more information, please click on http://inside.nps.gov/waso/custommenu.cfm?v=37PRG=574&ID=4024 .

January 26 – January 28 – NPS Structural Firefighter Live Fire Recertification, Glen Canyon NRA, AZ. This 24-hour live fire based course satisfies the refresher requirements for NPS structural firefighters as outlined in Section 14 of Reference Manual 58, NPS Structural Fire Management. The course is designed to refresh previously certified NPS structural firefighting personnel with varied live fire scenarios, with special emphasis on engine company response. NPS live fire qualified instructors direct the training in compliance with NFPA 1403 and OSHA requirements. The closing date is December 28th. For further information, contact the Mark Gorman at 605-433-5230 or check the website at http://inside.nps.gov/waso/training.cfm?lv=3&prg=358.    

February 2 – February 11 – Introduction to NPS Operations: Fundamentals II, Grand Canyon, AZ. NPS Fundamentals training is designed to help you build a foundation in NPS operations and procedures, expand teamwork and leadership skills, gain a big picture perspective and envision the NPS future, and develop a NPS employee support network throughout your career. Cost: Free. All travel and tuition paid for by Servicewide Learning and Development. All permanent, term, and SCEP NPS employees are strongly encouraged to attend. Learn more and find registration information at http://www.nps.gov/training/fund/index.htm . For more information, contact Mark Harner (928-638-7983, Mark_Harner@nps.gov) or Debbie Cox (304-535-6277, Debbie_Cox@nps.gov).

February 9 – February 11 – Emergency Services Workshop, Albuquerque, NM. This three-day event is designed to update and continue the application of Director’s Order 51, Reference Manual 51 and Field Manual 51 and provide training to EMS providers, park EMS coordinators and NPS medical advisors. Some of the highlights of this workshop will include revisions to the NPS EMS protocols and procedures, training on the NPS electronic patient care record, tactical EMS protocols and procedures, developing a quality assurance program, and NPS EMS vehicle and aviation standards.. Continuing education credits will be issued to attending EMS providers. For more information see the NPS EMS InsideNPS website at http://inside.nps.gov/waso/waso.cfm?prg=177&lv=3 .

March 1 – March 5 – Fundamentals of Special Park Uses, National Conservation Training Center, Shepherdstown, WV. This course is being listed now due to its early enrollment deadline – December 18th. The course covers all aspects of special park uses, including First Amendment activities, commercial filming, still photography and rights-of-way. DO-53 and RM-53 are covered in depth, as well as 36 CFR and NPS Management Policies 2006. A draft agenda is posted on the special park uses page at http://inside.nps.gov/waso/waso.cfm?prg=185&lv=3 . The DOI Learn code is NPS-VRP3021. For more information, contact Lee Dickinson, Special Park Uses Program Manager, WASO, at 202-513-7092. 

March 2 - March 11 – Introduction to NPS Operations: Fundamentals II, Grand Canyon, AZ. NPS Fundamentals training is designed to help you build a foundation in NPS operations and procedures, expand teamwork and leadership skills, gain a big picture perspective and envision the NPS future, and develop a NPS employee support network throughout your career. Cost: Free! All travel and tuition paid for by Servicewide Learning and Development. All permanent, term, and SCEP NPS employees are strongly encouraged to attend. Learn more and find registration information at http://www.nps.gov/training/fund/index.htm . For more information, contact Mark Harner (928-638-7983, Mark_Harner@nps.gov) or Debbie Cox (304-535-6277, Debbie_Cox@nps.gov).

March 16 - March 25 – Introduction to NPS Operations: Fundamentals II, Grand Canyon, AZ. NPS Fundamentals training is designed to help you build a foundation in NPS operations and procedures, expand teamwork and leadership skills, gain a big picture perspective and envision the NPS future, and develop a NPS employee support network throughout your career. Cost: Free! All travel and tuition paid for by Servicewide Learning and Development. All permanent, term, and SCEP NPS employees are strongly encouraged to attend. Learn more and find registration information at http://www.nps.gov/training/fund/index.htm . For more information, contact Mark Harner (928-638-7983, Mark_Harner@nps.gov) or Debbie Cox (304-535-6277, Debbie_Cox@nps.gov).

March 22 – March 26 – Special Park Uses “Train the Trainers” Course, National Conservation Training Center, Shepherdstown, WV. The goal is to train instructors for the Fundamentals of Special Park Uses courses held annually around the country.  The Fundamentals of Special Park Uses course introduces participants to special park uses administration through the knowledge of law, regulations and policy and the practical steps to issue permits that protect park resources, preserve high quality visitor experiences, avoid visitor use conflicts, and manage the uses in the best interest of the users and the American public. This course will take those with a demonstrated interest and experience in the special park uses through the laws, regulations, policies and guidance which govern special park uses.  In addition participants will learn skills necessary to teach effectively.  People who wish to be considered as future special park uses instructors should submit a letter of interest detailing their knowledge and experience in special park uses through their Superintendent (or Division chief in the case of regional office staff) to their regional Special Park Uses program coordinator by November 15th.  Applicants should detail their experience with special park use, knowledge of laws, regulation and policy that apply to special park uses, experience as an instructor, and any special park use training they have attended.  We need people with experience and interest in all facets of the special park uses program.   Special park uses include First Amendment activities, commercial filming, still photography, special events, rights-of-way, agricultural uses, and some uses that superintendents deem necessary and appropriate, and for which no other permitting instrument exists.  Participants who successfully complete the training may be asked to teach at one 40 hour course each year.  Typically, each one week course is taught by three trainers and one or two subject matter experts.The WASO special park uses program will pay for travel and per diem, overtime and base salary for participants selected for the course.  When selected as an instructor for future courses, the WASO program will pay travel and per diem and overtime. If you have any questions please contact your regional special park uses coordinator.