You, Extension and Success: A Competency-Based Professional Development System

Abstract

Achieving the mission of the Cooperative Extension System and maintaining our strength as educational leaders are hinged on our professional competence and technical expertise. An unrelenting spotlight on professional development will match the level of excellence we expect from ourselves and ought to have for Extension in order to create a statewide, national, and global impact. So where to begin? This article describes the five elements of You, Extension and Success! (YES!), a competency-based professional development system. YES! offers a starting point for Extension employees to focus on professional goals, increase personal fulfillment, and make a real difference in Extension.