Développer ses compétences grâce au programme de développement des membres
Our Member Development Program offers voluntary courses which build leadership, wellness and professional skills
At York Regional Police, learning does not stop when members step through the front door.
Through the Member Development Program, members across the organization are encouraged to build new skills, explore new perspectives and grow beyond the requirements of their roles.
“The program is a collection of voluntary courses open to all members, regardless of rank or role,” said Joseph Countryman, supervisor of the Technology and Skills Development Unit. “It’s designed to provide skills that support both personal and professional development.”
The program is structured around four core categories:
Professional Skills
Business writing, presentations and project management
Health, Safety and Wellness
Mindfulness and resilience, personal and workplace well-being
Community Inclusion and Organizational Awareness
Accessibility, combatting racism and making connections with diverse communities
Leadership
Skills such as mentoring and navigating difficult conversations
“Together, the four streams are designed to strengthen both individual capabilities and organizational culture,” Countryman said. “The overall goal is to build professional competencies, encourage well-being and develop leadership skills.”
From an organizational perspective, the program is also about preparing for the future. By encouraging employees to expand their knowledge and capabilities, it helps foster a more adaptable and innovative workforce. Employees who complete a set amount of training hours in each of the four streams earn a Statement of Achievement, a signed letter from the Deputy Chief of People and Culture congratulating them on their achievement. The letter is then sent to the members’ command, and Training and Education files a commendation on behalf of the member.
In 2025, more than 276 members completed at least one course in the program, while 11 went on to earn their Statement of Achievement.
“Ultimately, the goal is intrinsic motivation,” Countryman said. “But we want to recognize that achievement and show that we’re proud of them.”
The program offers an opportunity to learn new skills, pursue personal goals and connect with colleagues across the organization. Some participants take a single course, while others commit to completing the full program over several years.
“It gives members the opportunity to grow and to learn to do more with their position,” Countryman said. “It’s about continuous growth and improvement.”
Rather than relying on external instructors, courses are led by subject matter experts from within the organization. This approach allows employees to learn directly from colleagues with practical experience, while strengthening knowledge sharing across units.
“As the program evolves, member feedback plays a central role,” Countryman said. “We’re always evolving based on the members’ needs.”
In a profession defined by constant change, the Member Development Program reinforces that learning is ongoing, and growth benefits both the individual and the organization. At the heart of the Training and Education Bureau’s mandate is a simple truth: Learning for Life.
