Professional development is essential for individuals and companies to survive and prosper in the rapidly changing environment of the business world. Everyone is scrambling to keep up with the changes in technology and information. Industry leaders are teaming with Columbia Basin College’s Institute for Professional Development to respond to their companies' needs for employee training and education.

The Institute for Professional Development at Columbia Basin College will strengthen your workforce’s knowledge and skills through careful assessment and planning of courses and customized training. As a result, your business will increase its productivity and competitiveness.

We offer a broad range of classes, workshops, and training offered in a variety of formats to meet your company’s specific requirements. Benefits of employer provided educational opportunities include:

• Greater productivity
• Increased employee retention
• Improved employee satisfaction
• Increased competitive advantage

Gary Becker, noted University of Chicago economist, has calculated the individual rate of return on employee education is 12.5-25 percent.

Resources available through the Institute for Professional Development include:

• Customized training
• Workshops and seminars
• Small Business Development Center
• Assistance with acquiring funding for training when possible
• Computer lab rentals