Manager Training and Development Strategy: A Methodology to Link Strategic Initiatives at Washington and Lee University

Washington and Lee University has developed and implemented a strategic plan and performance development initiative for 2007-2017. In concert with the strategic plan and performance development initiative, supportive manager core competencies have been identified. The deliverable for this capstone project is a documented methodology that supports the strategy for the design and implementation of a manager training and development program that ensures needed competencies are available. The author uses survey data to determine training needs and priorities and, through a review of literature, investigates effective strategies to arrive at a successful implementation methodology. The author presents findings and conclusions regarding design implementation methodology for manager training and development.

Challenges and Opportunities in Managing the Aging Workforce: An Investigation of the Federal Emergency Management Agency

The aging workforce is becoming the majority of the working population in the United States. Although the literature on the aging workforce is sizable, little exists on how public agencies use the older workers. This capstone project examines the challenges and opportunities related to the employment of older workers as seen through a case study of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Knowledge gained from a synthesis of the literature review with survey data collected and analyzed will enable HR professionals to better understand the demographic, economic, regulatory, and intellectual influences of the aging workforce. The results from the survey of FEMA employees suggest a basis to plan and implement successful hiring and retention policies related to the aging workforce.