HR Launches Spring Cohort for Career by Design

Human Resources continues to invest in employee growth through intentional, high‑impact development opportunities. Career by Design, a cohort‑based professional development program led by the Learning and Organizational Development team, supports employees at all career stages in reflecting on their goals and building a purposeful path forward.

Registration for the spring 2026 cohort is now open. Each cohort is limited to 25 participants, and supervisor approval is required. A book with an active code for an assessment is required for the program and the assessment must be completed prior to the fisrt session.

Rather than centering on traditional career advancement, Career by Design emphasizes career ownership. Through guided learning and reflection, employees will explore their strengths, better understand the University’s career ecosystem, align their aspirations with institutional priorities and translate insights into actionable steps.

What makes the Career by Design program unique?

Career by Design blends three in‑person sessions with a six‑month virtual community of practice, creating a sustained learning experience that moves participants from reflection to long‑term momentum.

In‑person sessions

• Session 1 – Discover: Understanding Your Professional Self
  Participants explore their motivations, strengths, values, and career drivers—the foundation for intentional growth.
• Session 2 – Ownership: Understanding the Career Ecosystem
  This session demystifies how professional growth happens at UNC Charlotte, highlighting career readiness, networking, mentoring and internal mobility.
• Session 3 – Alignment: Connecting Career Growth with Institutional Impact
  Participants learn how to align their goals with University priorities and use the performance cycle as a strategic development tool.

Six‑Month Community of Practice

Learning doesn’t end after the classroom sessions, and ongoing engagement reinforces the idea that career development is a continuous journey. Through a virtual community hosted in Google Spaces, participants will continue to:

• Reflect on their goals
• Share insights and strategies
• Access curated resources
• Check in on progress with peers

Participants who complete all requirements will receive transcript credit and a printed certificate.

Spring 2026 cohort dates

• Friday, May 15, (9 a.m.–noon)
• Friday, May 22, (9 a.m.–noon)
• Friday, May 29, (9 a.m.–noon)

Visit the Career by Design webpage for additional information or contact the learning and organizational development team at hrtraining@charlotte.edu or 704‑687‑8622.