I am looking for information on how to career path Training Specialist. I have trainers that are entry level trainers and I want information on how to advance them to a level 2 or 3. I am looking for measurements that were used, competencies, etc. Does anyone have examples of career pathing that they have used?

Becky, there isn't much of a career in training. Most do it just for the love of it, then many get burned out and move somewhere else.

I worked in one organisation that wanted us to become 'learning professionals'. Training & Development were just 2 of the 21 competencies they wanted us to do. Upon acheiving level 2 (we entered at level 1) we got a 15% raise. Upon hitting level 3 another 15% raise. That motivated us.

As a learning professional we had to do things like design classes, coach, mentor, network with peers, network with experts, present at conferences, write/publish articles or thesis, demonstrate ability with IT tools including the LMS, show proof of changing / improving processes within the dept, working with recognized institutions on a JV. These were some that come to mind.

Have you talked to your HR department about their overall career planning methodology? They may already have a matrix of competencies, job descriptions, and methodology of how they move people from one level to another. Of course, you should have input on that and what makes sense in your organization.

If they don't already have formal career plans, many organizations don't, they will have acceess to info to get started through SHRM (hopefully they are members).

Is this something someone is asking you to do, or something you think you "should" do?

Thanks for your advice. I am being tasked with this by my Director.