Twenty federal employees have completed the first Executive Assistant Certificate Program, preparing them for greater responsibility in improving work environments, managing projects, and operating office systems. The first class graduated on Jan. 20.

The two-week pilot training program was developed by the DOI University in partnership with the Office of the Inspector General and the Bureau of Land Management. The program was designed to prepare specialists who can build a productive and harmonious work environment in which employees set the correct priorities for office management.

Participants learned how negative attitudes could sabotage relationships and were coached on understanding the importance of feedback and self-disclosure in establishing and improving relationships in communications and listening techniques. The program developed specific skills in the following areas: management and decisionmaking techniques; project management; office management; personal profile systems; writing; interpersonal communication; time and stress management; and customer service.

DOI University is working with several Interior bureau personnel offices to plan the next Executive Assistant Certificate Program, which will be announced in the Spring. If you have questions about the program, call Patricia Rogers at 208-5796 or e-mail her at patricia_m_rogers@nbc.gov.