Corrections_Today_November_December_2020_Vol.82_No.6

Professional Development Update

As an organization, there are many benefits to having certified pro - fessionals as part of your team. To have your staff become certified en - ables them to be part of a nationwide network of resources and enhances the productivity, efficiency and ef - fectiveness of your organization. The value of having certified profession - als as part of your staff exemplifies the organization’s commitment to foster professional development and learning culture that serves as a promotional path for leadership opportunities. The CCP reflects the highest quality and excellence of individuals who have attained the CCP and proven themselves to meet relevant standards and dem - onstrate competency in corrections operations. A workforce of certified corrections employees provides assurance of quality service, safety, ethical conduct, confidence, trust and professionalism. Having certified staffs also enhances society’s image of corrections personnel and the field of corrections. Certification is earned on an individual basis, but the value and benefits of it are not only for the individual but for the organization for which they work. The value of certification for an individual rep - resents a sense of accomplishment and recognition but it also represents commitment, dedication and exper - tise at the organizational level.

“I chose to become a Certified Correc- tional Manager through the American Correctional Association because of the profound and meaningful way the process and achievement validates my years of service, knowledge, expertise and dedication.” — Sergeant Adam Gonzalez, CCM Uintah County Sheriff’s Office “Certification lands legitimacy to the achievements and quality of well-trained staff.” — Lieutenant Michael Kreutz, CCM Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office

“I can truly say that the process of becoming an ACA Certified Corrections Manager has enlightened and inspired me to be a better leader for my agency, team and the community I serve.” — Darby Howard, CCM Deputy Director, St. Louis City Justice Services “Through my certification I am able to provide better services in support of the facility’s mission. This includes management of the facility’s staff and inmates.” — Sergeant James Russell, CCM of the 256 th Military Police Company, 40 th Military Police Battalion (Detention)

Doreen Efeti MPH, MBA, MCHES ® , DHSc is the director of professional development at the American Correctional Association.

Cindy Gomez is a certification specialist at the American Correctional Association.

Corrections Today November/December 2020 — 87