Professional Development Program

Jeffrey Schmidt Highway Engineer, Eastern Federal Lands Highway Division Jeffrey Schmidt graduated from Michigan Technological University in 1992 with a B.S. degree in Civil Engineering. Jeff describes his time in FHWA's development program: "It was a good two years. I enjoyed all my assignments. Compared to most jobs where you're stuck in one spot, right out of college, here you can move around a lot." In his present position as project engineer, he solves engineering and design problems, interprets plans for inspectors and the contractor, performs contract administration functions, and ensures that current development participants receive the appropriate training while they are on the project. "Since I've been through the program, I try and steer new participants into the direction that benefits them the most from their current assignments."

Advancement During the Program

Participants enter the Professional Development Program at grade GS-7 or GS-9, depending on their educational degrees and experience. After 1 year in the Professional Development Program, participants are considered for promotion to a grade GS-9 or GS-11. At the end of the training program when all assignments have been successfully completed, graduates are eligible for advancement to grade GS-11 or GS-12. Final grade advancement will be processed after the permanent placement management's approval. Promotional opportunities depend on satisfactory performance in each assignment while participating in the Professional Development Program.

Thereafter, eligibility for promotion is determined by competitive procedures under the FHWA Merit Promotion Plan. Under this system, graduates are eligible for consideration for promotional opportunities at each career level.

This wide range of technical and professional opportunities can lead to the highest technical and management positions within the Federal Highway Administration.

Participants are provided the opportunity to develop job skills to meet individual goals. As skills develop, so will avenues for advancement. The FHWA encourages development and offers training to refresh, update, and build skills.

Educational Opportunities

Continuing education while gaining work experience is an important part of the Professional Development Program. Participants will increase their skills and knowledge through on-the-job training and formal classroom training. Participants have the flexibility to choose the training areas that will be of greatest interest throughout their careers.

Graduate/Postgraduate Study

Professional Development Program participants selected for the program may be able to pursue graduate/postgraduate studies later in their careers. Agency funding is offered for specialized training in areas such as hydraulics, geotechnical engineering, structures, pavements, transportation planning, or other areas related to engineering, community planning, and transportation and environmental specialities.

Career Planning Assistance

The FHWA is known for its team spirit, professionalism, and ethical values. These qualities support another FHWA tradition . . . helping and encouraging fellow employees to grow and advance in the organization.

During the Professional Development Program, all participants will have an experienced coach in the participant's discipline. The coach and the participant will prepare a development plan that outlines all assignments during the 24-month program. The coach will be the participant's daily contact regarding assigning and evaluating work, and providing guidance. This coaching will continue when the participant is away from the sponsoring office on developmental assignments.