Advance your career with expert-led training designed for today's professionals
The Professional Development Institute (open to both the public AND State Employees) empowers working professionals across all industries to enhance their skills, advance their careers, and achieve meaningful professional goals. Our expert-led programs combine academic excellence with practical, real-world applications that deliver immediate value to your workplace.
Why Choose SCSU?
Industry-Relevant Skills: Our courses are designed to meet the evolving demands of today's workplace, covering everything from leadership and communication to technology and project management.
Flexible Learning Options: Choose from in-person, virtual, or hybrid formats that fit your busy schedule. Many programs offer evening and weekend sessions to accommodate working professionals.
Expert Instructors: Learn from experienced practitioners and academic experts who bring real-world insights to every session.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals from diverse industries and build valuable relationships that extend beyond the classroom.
Continuing Education Credits: Many programs offer professional development units (PDUs) and continuing education credits recognized by professional organizations.
Registration is now open for upcoming sessions. Spaces fill quickly – secure your spot today!
If you are a Connecticut State Employees who would like to register for training at Southern using funding from your agency, please see your TAO to complete the required paperwork.
If you are a State employee who would like to register for training at Southern using a charge card for private pay or later reimbursement from your union, etc., please register here: https://owll.southernct.edu/
Keep Your Best People
Employee retention has become one of the most important challenges facing organizations today. This course explores the key factors that influence engagement, commitment, and long-term employee success. Participants will learn practical strategies for strengthening workplace culture, supporting employee development, and reducing turnover. The program includes coaching support to help participants apply retention strategies within their own organizations.
Instructor: Ellen Feldman Ornato
Date/Time/Location: October 28, 2026 (Online, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.) and November 11, 2026 (Virtual Coaching Session, 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.)
Cost: $249
Course ID: NCLS.BP.1.1.1
Recommended For: Supervisors, managers, HR professionals, team leaders, and organizational leaders seeking practical strategies to improve employee engagement, retention, and workplace culture.
Five Behaviors of Cohesive Teams
High-performing teams are built on trust, accountability, and productive collaboration. Based on the Five Behaviors model, this course helps participants understand team dynamics and identify opportunities for greater effectiveness. Through assessment results, discussion, and application exercises, participants will learn how to address conflict, strengthen commitment, and improve results. Coaching support reinforces learning and helps teams sustain meaningful change.
Instructor: Ellen Feldman Ornato
Date/Time/Location: November 5 and 12, 2026 (Online, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.); November 19, 2026 (Group Coaching Session, 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.)
Cost: $599 (includes assessment fee)
Course ID: NCTE.FB.1.1.1
Recommended For: Team leaders, supervisors, managers, project teams, and professionals interested in strengthening collaboration, trust, accountability, and team performance.
Building Influence
Effective leadership depends on the ability to influence others, regardless of job title or position. This interactive course helps participants develop the communication, relationship-building, and credibility skills needed to gain buy-in and create positive outcomes. Attendees will explore strategies for navigating workplace dynamics, fostering collaboration, and communicating with impact. Coaching sessions provide opportunities to practice and strengthen new skills.
Instructor: Kat Koppett
Date/Time/Location: November 10 and 17, 2026 (Online, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.); November 24, 2026 (Group Coaching Session, 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.)
Cost: $475
Course ID: NCLS.BI.1.1.1
Recommended For: Professionals at all organizational levels who need to gain support for ideas, build partnerships, communicate persuasively, and increase their effectiveness at work.
Creating Successful Special Events: Conference and Event Management
Planning successful events requires strong organization, communication, and project management skills. This course provides practical guidance for designing, coordinating, and evaluating conferences, meetings, and special events of all sizes. Participants will explore budgeting, logistics, vendor management, risk mitigation, and attendee experience strategies. Whether planning internal meetings or large public events, attendees will gain tools to create professional and memorable experiences.
Instructor: Prof. Lee deLisle
Date/Time/Location: November 11, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. | SCSU
Cost: $249
Course ID: NCTH.SE.5.3.3
Recommended For: Administrative professionals, event coordinators, communications staff, program managers, association staff, and anyone responsible for planning meetings, conferences, trainings, or public events.
Supervision in a Union Environment
Supervising employees in a unionized workplace requires a clear understanding of roles, responsibilities, and labor-management relationships. This course provides practical guidance on managing performance, communication, documentation, and workplace issues while maintaining compliance with collective bargaining agreements. Participants will examine common supervisory challenges and proven approaches for addressing them effectively. The program is ideal for both new and experienced supervisors working in union environments.
Instructor: Prof. Kauther Badr
Date/Time/Location: November 19, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. | SCSU
Cost: $249
Course ID: NCSB.UE.3.3.9
Recommended For: New and experienced supervisors, managers, HR professionals, and labor relations staff working in unionized public, nonprofit, or private-sector organizations.
Fundamentals of Supervisory Leadership
This course introduces current and aspiring supervisors to the essential leadership practices needed to guide people, support performance, and build strong teams. Participants will explore practical tools for communicating clearly, strengthening emotional intelligence, setting expectations, coaching employees, improving engagement, and leading teams through workplace change. Through discussion and workplace examples, learners will develop the confidence and skills to lead with accountability, empathy, and purpose.
Instructors: Ron Utterback, Hope Utterback
Date/Time/Location: December 2, 2026 | 9:00 AM-4:00 PM | Online
Fee: $249
Course ID: NCLS.FS.1.1.1
Recommended For: New supervisors, aspiring supervisors, team leads, project managers, and professionals preparing to take on greater leadership responsibilities in public, nonprofit, or private-sector organizations.
Prereqs: None
Inclusive Leadership: Supporting and Supervising Neurodivergent Employees
Inclusive leaders recognize and support the diverse ways employees think, communicate, and contribute. This course explores practical strategies for supervising and supporting neurodivergent employees while fostering an inclusive workplace culture. Participants will learn about common workplace barriers, effective communication practices, and approaches to accommodations and support. The course is designed for managers, supervisors, HR professionals, and team leaders committed to maximizing employee success.
Instructor: Prof. Kari Sassu
Date/Time/Location: January 8, 2027 | 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. | SCSU
Cost: $249
Course ID: NCAU.NE.11.1.3
Recommended For: Supervisors, managers, HR professionals, educators, team leaders, and workplace champions focused on building more inclusive workplaces.
Unlocking AI: Tools, Prompts, and Productivity
Learn how to use today's most effective AI tools to improve productivity, communication, and problem-solving at work. Participants will explore practical applications for drafting content, analyzing information, streamlining routine tasks, and enhancing decision-making. The course emphasizes effective prompting techniques and responsible AI use in professional settings. Leave with actionable strategies that can be applied immediately in government, nonprofit, or private-sector workplaces.
Instructor: Steven Yanicke
Date/Time/Location: October 21, 2026 | 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. | SCSU
Cost: $249
Course ID: NCAI.UA.3.3.1
Recommended For: Employees, nonprofit professionals, and private-sector staff at all levels who want to use AI tools to improve efficiency, communication, research, writing, and daily workplace productivity.
Training for Managers: The AI Leadership Playbook
AI is transforming how organizations operate, and leaders must be prepared to guide teams through that change. This course helps managers understand AI capabilities, opportunities, risks, and governance considerations. Participants will learn how to support employee adoption, improve team productivity, and make informed decisions about AI-enabled work. Ideal for supervisors and managers seeking to lead confidently in an evolving digital environment.
Instructor: Steven Yanicke
Date/Time/Location: November 4, 2026 | 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. | SCSU
Cost: $249
Course ID: NCAI.TM.3.3.1
Recommended For: Current and aspiring supervisors, managers, directors, and organizational leaders responsible for leading teams, managing change, and integrating new technologies into the workplace.
Power BI Level I: Turning Data into Actionable Insights
Develop the foundational skills needed to transform raw data into meaningful insights using Microsoft Power BI. Participants will learn how to connect, visualize, and interpret data through interactive dashboards and reports. The course focuses on practical techniques for identifying trends, communicating findings, and supporting data-informed decisions. No advanced analytics experience is required.
Instructor: Matt Baher
Date/Time/Location: November 5, 12, and 19 | 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM | Online
Cost: $399
Course ID: NCCS.BI.2.1.3
Recommended For: Analysts, program managers, administrators, project leads, and professionals who work with data and want to create meaningful reports and dashboards.
Power BI Level II: Applied Data and AI-Supported Productivity
Build on your Power BI knowledge by exploring more advanced analytics, reporting, and productivity-enhancing features. Participants will learn how to create more sophisticated dashboards, automate workflows, and leverage AI-supported tools within the Power BI environment. The course emphasizes practical applications that improve efficiency and decision-making. Ideal for professionals ready to move beyond basic reporting and maximize the value of organizational data.
Instructor: Matt Baher
Date/Time/Location: December 3 and 10 | 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM | Online
Cost: $329
Course ID: NCCS.BI2.2.1.1
Recommended For: Professionals with foundational Power BI experience who are ready to expand their analytics, reporting, automation, and AI-supported decision-making capabilities.
AI Productivity with Microsoft 365 Copilot and Office Tools
This course introduces learners to practical, everyday uses of Microsoft 365 Copilot in Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Participants will learn how to use AI assistance to draft and summarize communications, analyze data, create and refine documents, and build professional presentations. The focus is on real workplace scenarios, effective prompting, responsible AI use, and time-saving workflows that help users move from manual tasks to higher-value work.
Instructors: Ron Utterbeck, Hope Utterbeck
Cost: $129
Two Options Offered - Pick one:
Course ID: NCAI.CP.1.1.1
Date/Time/Location: December 1, 2026 | 9:00 AM-12:30 | Online
OR
Course ID: NCAI.CP.1.1.2
Date/Time/Location: December 1, 2026 | 1:00 PM-4:30 PM | Online
Recommended For: Administrative professionals, analysts, managers, project coordinators, state employees, and business professionals seeking practical ways to increase productivity using Microsoft's AI-powered workplace tools.
Prereqs: Participants should have a working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. No programming or prior AI experience is required. As this is a hands-on course, participants will need to bring a laptop with access to Microsoft's Office suite.
Understanding Social Determinants of Health: Tools for Creating Equitable Outcomes
Health outcomes are influenced by a wide range of social, economic, and environmental factors. This course introduces the concept of social determinants of health and examines their impact on individuals and communities. Participants will learn practical tools for identifying barriers, improving service delivery, and promoting more equitable outcomes. The program is valuable for professionals working in healthcare, human services, education, government, and community organizations.
Instructor: Prof. Anuli Njoku
Date/Time/Location: October 29, 2026 | 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. | SCSU
Cost: $249
Course ID: NCPH.SD.5.3.2
Recommended For: Healthcare professionals, social service providers, educators, public health practitioners, government employees, nonprofit staff, and community leaders focused on improving outcomes and reducing disparities.
Preventing Workplace Violence
Creating a safe workplace requires awareness, preparation, and proactive prevention strategies. This course helps participants recognize risk factors, identify warning signs, and understand appropriate response protocols. Attendees will explore best practices for prevention, reporting, and de-escalation while promoting a culture of safety and respect. The content is relevant to employees, supervisors, and organizational leaders across all sectors.
Instructor: Prof. Venezia Michalsen
Date/Time/Location: November 9, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. | Online
Cost: $249
Course ID: NCSF.WV.1.1.1
Recommended For: Employees, supervisors, HR professionals, safety personnel, security staff, and organizational leaders committed to maintaining safe and respectful workplaces.
Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health First Aid equips participants with the knowledge and skills to recognize and respond to common mental health challenges and crises. Through evidence-based instruction, attendees learn how to provide initial support and connect individuals with appropriate professional resources. The course promotes awareness, reduces stigma, and strengthens workplace and community well-being. Participants leave better prepared to support colleagues, clients, and community members when needed.
Instructor: Prof. Erin Duff
Date/Time/Location: January 13, 2027 | 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. | SCSU
Cost: $129
Course ID: NCPH.MH.5.3.2
Recommended For: Employees, supervisors, educators, healthcare workers, first responders, community leaders, and anyone interested in supporting mental health awareness and well-being in the workplace and community.
Bridging the Virtual Divide
As hybrid and remote work continue to evolve, effective virtual communication is more important than ever. This course explores techniques for building trust, engagement, and collaboration across digital environments. Participants will learn strategies for facilitating productive meetings, strengthening relationships, and overcoming common virtual workplace challenges. Coaching support helps attendees apply these tools to their own teams and organizations.
Instructor: Kat Koppett
Date/Time/Location: November 4, 2026 (Online, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.); November 10, 2026 (Group Coaching Session, 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.)
Cost: $249
Course ID: NCCM.VD.1.1.1
Recommended For: Remote, hybrid, and in-person professionals, supervisors, project managers, and team leaders seeking to strengthen communication and collaboration across virtual workplaces.
Branding Like Taylor Swift
What can one of the world's most recognizable brands teach professionals about visibility, influence, and audience engagement? This course examines branding principles through the lens of consistency, authenticity, storytelling, and strategic communication. Participants will learn how to strengthen their professional presence, communicate their value, and build stronger connections with stakeholders. The concepts apply to individuals, teams, programs, and organizations across sectors.
Instructor: Prof. Sara Baker Bailey
Date/Time/Location: December 2 and 9, 2026 (Online 8:30 to 12:30) | Online
Cost: $249
Course ID: NCPR.TS.1.1.1
Recommended For: Professionals, entrepreneurs, managers, communications staff, and leaders interested in building credibility, visibility, influence, and audience engagement.
Spanish Language and Culture for Front-Line Workers
Strengthen your ability to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking clients, customers, patients, and community members. This course introduces practical workplace vocabulary, common conversational phrases, and cultural considerations that support positive interactions. Participants will build confidence through interactive practice and real-world scenarios. The program is designed for front-line professionals across government, healthcare, education, and service industries.
Instructor: Sandra Torres
Date/Time/Location: January 12 and 13, 2027 | 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. | SCSU
Cost: $329
Course ID: NCLG.SF.2.3.6
Recommended For: Front-line employees in government, healthcare, education, human services, public safety, customer service, and community-facing roles who interact with Spanish-speaking populations.