Training & Workforce Development
The CSCI is committed to building the capacity of local communities to become more resilient, and training and workforce development are key to that mission.
CSCI Training Programs
CSCI offers virtual training programs designed for:
- Climate adaptation practitioners – Individuals or groups who work with communities to assess and address climate-related vulnerability and risk
- Community leaders, including local and regional leaders who work within government entities, as well as leaders based in community-based organizations (CBOs)
These programs guide participants through the U.S. Climate Resilience Toolkit’s Steps to Resilience (StR), an interactive framework for understanding climate risks and developing effective, community-driven solutions. Whether new to climate planning or ready to implement strategies, this training meets the participants where they are, with a strong focus on community-centered planning that prioritizes those most affected by the climate crisis.
Topics Covered
Through an engaging online learning experience, participants explore the Steps to Resilience and learn how to apply the framework to their own community planning efforts and professional work.
The framework consists of the following five steps:
- Understand Exposure: Identify the assets that the community needs to protect and the hazards that threaten them.
- Assess Vulnerability and Risk: Examine how likely each hazard is and how much impact it could have on the community.
- Investigate Options: Co-create possible solutions through community-centered brainstorming and discussion.
- Prioritize and Plan: Evaluate strategies based on benefits, costs, and feasibility to move from ideas to action.
- Take Action: Start pulling the plan into motion with continued guidance and support.
Explore the StR Practitioner’s Guide to learn more. It draws on practical experience supporting climate adaptation across the U.S. to help practitioners balance decisions and evaluate their outcomes.
Course Schedule
Courses are typically offered annually to recipients of grants from CSCI, with additional publicly available sessions scheduled based on community interest and partner availability.
To stay informed about upcoming training opportunities, join the CSCI mailing list or follow CSCI on LinkedIn below.
Training is delivered in collaboration with NOAA’s Office of Coastal Management, NOAA’s Climate Program Office, UNC Asheville’s NEMAC, and CSCI partner Fernleaf.
