Professional development is not a lone journey. It requires a commitment to yourself and those you are striving to help. It also requires support from those closest to you. some of the best government professionals can share their knowledge and experiences. Most of the classes are taught by current or former City Managers and other high level government leaders. Many participants in the CPM program are tenured professionals with several years of government experience. This program pushed me well outside of my comfort zone, as I was one of the least experienced participants. This opportunity exposed me to some of the great personalities and thought processes of local government leaders. It inspired me to sharpen and practice the skills I have learned and strive for continuous improvement. The experience from this program energized me in a new way and made me realize I still have much to learn. I will never stop learning. The CPM program can be utilized as 6 credit hours towards a Master’s degree in Public Administration (MPA), which inspired me to keep pushing and enroll to complete my MPA. I have found it very useful to stay curious and follow the things that give me energy. Ask yourself, what excites you and gives you energy in your professional life? How can you deepen and improve that thing? Find any opportunity you can to pursue the things that energize you! Professional development is not a lone journey. It requires a commitment to yourself and those you are striving to help. It also requires support from those closest to you. This might be one of the best parts of the journey, discovering how many people support your aspirations and believe in you. From a partner, a friend, a family member, to mentors, supervisors, or scholarship provider, there are so many people who believe in you and want to see you succeed. I am one of those people, and ready to help you continue or start your journey. Please feel free to connect with me through CPRA’s new Connected Communities if I can be of any assistance or support. Just ask yourself what you want, how you will get there, and then take a step. You won’t regret it, I guarantee it.
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Colorado Byline | Winter 2021 • 9
