AIFST Continuing Professional Development
In July 2011 AIFST announced its intention to introduce a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) program for members. The term (CPD) implies that an individual is already qualified, and that they are, through CPD, maintaining and enhancing their skills. Most Professionals continue to develop skills, knowledge and expertise throughout their careers. However many professionals are not disciplined in documenting their achievements and may find it difficult at times of career change, whether planned or unplanned, to articulate their abilities.
To address this need AIFST is implementing a CPD program that provides a systematic and planned approach to maintenance and development of knowledge and skills, throughout a member’s career. The program will focus on delivering relevant and targeted training and development opportunities for members. AIFST members will be able to determine their training needs by completing a range of career assessment tools to identify their development needs and will be able to access appropriate and relevant training to meet these needs, including capturing achievements.
The program will be beneficial to the individual, the employer, and the industry and will build on the Scientific/Technical program that is currently offered by the Institute.
Our current activities include:
Coordination of the AIFST Scientific and Technical Program
We are currently coordinating the Scientific/ Technical programs offered by the individual Branches to make it easier for members to plan ahead to attend events. Our Calendar of Events for 2012 will be available for members and non-members through our website. We will broaden the current program to include non-technical events in the areas of leadership and management and we will be scheduling events to address current topics of interest at both national and international levels.
We are also exploring sources of funded training for members who wish to undertake accredited training.
Career Planning and Management
We are preparing career tools and a Food Industry Career Map to assist members in their navigation of the industry, and we will be able to provide career planning assistance to member’s at all different stages of their careers. The career tools package will be launched at the 45th Annual AIFST Convention, 15 –18 July 2012 in Adelaide.
AIFST is a national association representing individuals like you from all sectors of the Australian food and allied industries, giving you exposure to all aspects of the agrifood sector.