Career development of professional staff at the University of the Fraser Valley: Nurturing talent from within

This research study explored the optimum components for a career development program at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) for professional staff. Career development offers many benefits, including the engagement, development, and growth of employees. It assists with recruitment and retention, along with succession planning. The purpose of this study was to uncover what skills professional staff want to learn and need and, hence, what successful components should be added to a career development program to help staff develop as leaders and progress in their careers. Through action research, two groups of participants provided feedback on this topic. First, British Columbia universities were surveyed. Second, a survey and focus group were conducted with UFV professional staff. The results of the research indicated a keen desire and need for a career development program. Recommendations include leadership and management training, internal networking opportunities, and career planning.