Professional Development FAQ

Revolutionizing Professional Development

MSA is moving away from the one-size-fits-all approach of In-Service workshops and embracing more personalized professional development offerings.

MSA members will now have the freedom to choose their own PD opportunities. We are piloting a new reimbursement model that will offer flexibility and empower you to take control of your professional growth. You can pursue the knowledge and skills that you believe will best propel your career forward.

Call for Volunteers

As a member of the MSA Professional Development Committee, your voice matters. You’ll have a say in shaping the balance between individual reimbursement and collective workshops. Together, we’ll create a fair and effective system that meets the diverse needs of our members.

Join us on this exciting journey of redefining professional development. Together, we’ll transform the way we grow and thrive in our careers.

Who should volunteer?

To ensure comprehensive representation across different job families (see MSA Collective Agreement Article 49.0.21.), we are seeking up to seven (7) members, aligning with various job families to join the committee. To volunteer, you must be a signed MSA member in good standing. Find a membership form here.

What are the Job Families?

Job Families refers to a series of related positions that offer increasing levels of job function, competency, interpersonal skills, mental effort, decision-making, education, and leadership.

Administrative Support and Service

You provide administrative program, and/or office support, and coordination of the University's services and programs.

Ancillary

You provide campus-related, non-academic services, and supports the daily activities of students, faculty, staff, and the public.

Finance

You focus on the financial activities of the University from transaction processing through to financial analysis and reporting.

Information Technology

You provide secure, innovative, and client‐oriented information technology services, support, and solutions.

Learning and Academic Administration

You provide services, supports, resources, and programs related to academic life, student development, and success.

Infrastructure and Operations

You provide technical expertise, planning, programs, and services for the University’s physical infrastructure and environment.

Marketing, Comms and External Relations

You focus on developing strategies and communications plans to support the University’s brand and reputation.

What will I do?

Recommend fair and sustainable eligibility criteria and annual reimbursement limits for supporting members’ professional development using a cost reimbursement model.
Plan and organize a select number of annual group PD training or education activities for a diverse range of MSA members, considering the allocated budget.
Actively participate in meetings, discussions, and decision-making processes of the committee, including voting when necessary.

How much time do I have to commit?

We anticipate holding two (2) to four (4) weekly meetings initially to propose the criteria for assessing professional development fund requests. Afterward, meetings will be scheduled on a monthly or bi-monthly basis, taking into consideration the work hours of committee members to minimize interference with their regular responsibilities. Additional meetings may be scheduled as needed on an ad hoc basis to address specific matters.

How do I sign up?

To express your interest in joining the PDC, please include your name and job family classification in an email to m**@**cewan.ca, by August 4, at 4:30pm.