Looking to build new skills, explore your career goals or connect with colleagues who can help you grow? UCOP Learning and Development offers two programs that can help you take the next step in your professional journey.

Whether you’re interested in strengthening your leadership skills or learning from an experienced colleague, these opportunities offer practical guidance, valuable connections and support for your career growth.

Build your leadership skills as an individual contributor

You don’t need to manage a team to be a leader. The 2027 UCOP Leadership for Individual Contributors Cohort helps experienced staff build confidence, strengthen their skills and make a greater impact in their current roles.

From Jan. 28 through May 27, participants will join colleagues from across UCOP for interactive workshops and small-group discussions. Topics include project management, emotional intelligence, time management, working with supervisors, and writing and presentation skills. Participants will also apply what they’ve learned to a workplace leadership project of their choosing.

Who can participate: Individual contributors at the P3, P4 or P5 level who have worked at UCOP and in their current role for at least two years, have a STEP rating of Solid Performance or above and have their supervisor’s support.

The program requires approximately eight hours per month and a $100 materials fee covered by the participant’s department.

Interested? Register for an information session on Nov. 10, from 1–1:30 p.m. (PT), review the UCOP Leadership for Individuals Cohort overview and complete the 2027 Program Application by Friday, Nov. 20.

Find career guidance and connections through mentorship

Sometimes, a conversation with the right colleague can open new doors. The 2027 UCOP Mentorship Program pairs staff with experienced colleagues who can offer career advice, share their perspectives and help mentees navigate workplace challenges.

The free program includes one-on-one mentoring, monthly mentee cohort meetings and learning opportunities for mentors. Participants can meet virtually or in person, with mentees setting their own goals and shaping the experience around their interests.

“I had a lot of valuable career guidance and coaching from my mentor,” shared a past participant. “The support from my mentor, mentee cohort and Mentorship Program leader made my journey a great experience.”

Who can participate:

• Mentees: Career, contract and represented staff in any classification with at least one year of UCOP service and a performance rating of Solid Performance or above.
• Mentors: Experienced UCOP leaders and staff with at least one year of service who want to support their colleagues’ development. Former mentees are welcome!

Annual participation averages approximately 40 hours for mentees and 20 hours for mentors. Prospective mentees should discuss the program with their supervisors before applying.

Ready to connect? Apply as a mentee or complete the mentor interest form.

For questions about either program, contact ucopld@ucop.edu.

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