Celebrating 15 Years of the Center for Workplace Enhancement (CWE): Supporting Your Growth and Development

Fifteen years ago, the CWE was founded by the OHSU/AFSCME Local 328 Labor Management Committee with a clear goal: to help employees grow, pursue education opportunities, and develop career relevant skills. Since 2009, the Center for Workplace Enhancement (CWE) has been there for AFSCME Local 328-represented employees, offering a wide range of opportunities designed to support OHSU’s diverse, hybrid workforce. Over the years, CWE has expanded its programs. Here are some examples of their courses.

  • Career Development - resumes, interviewing, career goals

  • Communication - initiating difficult conversations, responding to high conflict messaging

  • Conflict Management

  • Computer Skills - Word, Excel, Oracle, Teams, and Outlook skills

  • Emerging leaders program - for leadership development

  • Project Management

  • Team Trainings

  • Workplace English Classes

What Does the CWE Offer?

The CWE is all about creating learning experiences that are accessible, relevant, and impactful. Whether you’re looking to boost your skills, learn something new, or take the next step in your career, the CWE has something for you. One of its key offerings is managing the Professional Development Reimbursement Program (PDRP), which provides you with quarterly education dollars to fund your growth. As part of the current bargaining agreement between OHSU and AFSCME Local 328, you’re guaranteed 24 hours of job-related training per year—just ask! 

What’s great about CWE programs is that they count as job-related training no matter how they tie into your daily tasks. So whether you want to enhance your role, brush up on leadership skills, or dive into resume building, CWE’s got you covered. They also offer classes on things like using Outlook or Google more efficiently, and there’s a whole library of resources available on the O2. And as of July 1, 2024, PDRP funding has increased from $350 to $450 per quarter!

What’s New?

Thanks to recent efforts, we’re thrilled to announce the increase in PDRP funds—from $350 to $450 per quarter. This boost means more opportunities for you to invest in your personal and professional development. 

Plus, with National Career Development Month coming up this November, there’s no better time to focus on your future. You can self-register for a 25-minute Quick Career Conversation through Compass, where you’ll get the chance to chat with a professional counselor about your goals and next steps.

CWE Center career development tool kit has resume and interviewing resources and more.

https://ohsuitg.sharepoint.com/sites/CWECenterToolkit - toolkit with all their offerings not just the career development ones

Professional Development Reimbursement Funds - increased up to $450 per quarter for professional development.

November any OHSU employee can self-register for  a 25-minute Quick Career Conversation in Compass - these are virtual via Webex.

Career Counseling Intake Form 45 min virtual via Webex or in person by request available year round

https://o2.ohsu.edu/career-workplace-enhancement-center/cwe-center-classes - CWE classies list

https://o2.ohsu.edu/career-workplace-enhancement-center - O2 link

How to Qualify for PDRP

The Professional Development Reimbursement Program (PDRP) has been a part of our collective bargaining agreement since 2009. Its purpose? To make professional development opportunities more equitable for all AFSCME Local 328-represented employees. To qualify, you need to:

  • Be an AFSCME Local 328-represented employee

  • Work at least 18.5 hours per 80-hour pay period

The CWE is here to support you in your growth and career development. It’s just one of the many things your union has fought for over the years. So take advantage of the programs and services available, and let the CWE help you reach your professional goals!


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