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Learning & Development

At McMaster we believe in the ongoing cultivation of human potential, leveraging the diverse talents of our employees, and recognizing that everyone is a leader in their own role. We have a variety of learning and development options to support your development so that you are continually learning, building experience and contributing your value as a leader at McMaster.

word cloud related to learning

Development Planning

Before exploring any learning development options, make sure to have an individual development plan. As you develop your plan, consider the following:

  • What are my areas for development? Do I want to strengthen skills or acquire new skills?
  • What am I interested in learning about that will support me in my current role? What learning should I consider to support a move to a different role?
  • Of the six McMaster Core Leadership Capabilities, which leadership capability am I most interested in developing?

In developing your plan, we suggest a variety of development activities including:

Activities to explore:

  • Internal Organization Volunteer Opportunities
  • External Community Volunteer Opportunities
  • Committee Work (team, department or university level)
  • Participate in, Coach or Lead an Athletic/ Recreational Teams
  • Participate in or Lead an Arts/ Cultural Group

Options to explore:

Activities to explore:

  • Onboarding activities
  • Practical operational experiences
    • examples: budgeting, strategic planning
  • Special cross-functional/ unit assignments
  • Project work (team/ department/ university)
  • Leading team, department and project group meetings
  • Internal and external event management
  • Job shadowing/ rotations

 

Activities to explore:

  • Networking (Individual/ Group Events)
  • Mentoring (Peer Mentor/ Mentee)
  • Coaching (Self/ Peer, Open to coaching and actively practises)
  • Communities of Practice (Internal and External)
  • Assessments (Personality, Skill, Competency, Leadership)
  • Professional Association memberships
  • Social media profiles
    • examples: LinkedIn

Education Training Options (HR)

The following learning and development options are sponsored by and offered by Human Resources Services to support the growth and development of all employees at McMaster.

Leadership Development Learn More about Leading at McMaster

Everyone is a leader in their own role! Maximize your leadership capability through our leadership development programs for Personal Leaders, Knowledge Leaders, and Strategic Leaders.

Inclusive Excellence Leadership Program Learn More

This is a professional development series designed to equip people leaders to action EDI priorities through their leadership practice. This program is open to academic and non-academic people leaders.

Employment Equity Training Learn More

Explore equity, diversity and inclusion training offerings for staff, faculty, and students at McMaster University.

Essentials Courses & Programs Learn More

Take short courses on key professional skills offered through McMaster Continuing Education and work towards completing a micro-credential in the areas of Communication, Innovation, Productivity, Team, Leadership and/or Business.

Wellness Education Learn More

Learn about McMaster’s Well-Being programs which are offered year round to support your holistic wellness.

Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) Learn More

With a comprehensive menu of well-being programs and services to match your individual needs and goals, our EFAP can help you define and maintain your personal well-being through education, development, motivation and direct intervention.

Employee Development Conference (IFW) Learn More

This annual conference offers employees the opportunity for professional development, networking with colleagues, and a chance to support their personal well-being.

Education Training Options (University)

The following learning and development options are offered by various areas of the University.

LinkedIn Learning Learn More

Active McMaster students, faculty and staff have free, unlimited access to video tutorials related to business, media and technology through this self-service training site.

McMaster Continuing Education Learn More

Pursue an academic certificate and diploma program to support your professional development in a dynamic world.

DeGroote Executive Education Learn More

Enroll in programs that equip leaders to dramatically increase the value they bring to their organizations. View this information session video (19min) to learn more.

MacPherson Institute Learn More

Offers a wide variety of programs, workshops, services and supports to all members of the McMaster community to cultivate an environment where learning deeply matters, and teaching is valued and recognized.

FHS Office of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Learn More

The CPD office works to advance health sciences and medical education as well as professional development opportunities for faculty members and healthcare professionals.

Inclusion and Anti-Racism Education Learn More

The Inclusion and Anti-Racism Education Program specializes in providing education and support regarding race, equity and inclusion, and human rights.

Accessibility Training Learn More

Accessibility and AODA-related training offered at the university.

Microsoft 365 and Zoom Learn More

Discover and learn about Microsoft 365 and Zoom tools and applications.

Resources

Questions? Contact us!

Melanie Garaffa headshot

Melanie Garaffa

Associate Director, Talent, Equity and Development, Organizational Development