This episode is the second in the Career Practitioners of Tomorrow (CPT) series from NCDA's Diversity Initiatives and Cultural Inclusion (DICI) Committee. It explores how graduate students, early-career professionals, and new career services practitioners can intentionally build their professional identity through evidence-based strategies rooted in national standards, emerging research, and the evolving landscape of work and career development.

Panelists—including counselor educators, career services directors, and workforce development leaders—unpack the core competencies necessary for success in the profession and discuss trends reshaping practice. The conversation emphasizes practical, research-supported pathways for ongoing growth, including scholarship, writing, presentation development, mentorship, networking, and engagement with the National Career Development Association (NCDA). This session: 

• Explains how evidence-based frameworks guide effective practice and develop competencies.
• Highlights current and future trends shaping the field.
• Provides actionable guidance for building a strong career development portfolio.
• Offers tips for engaging deeply in NCDA to accelerate growth.

Speakers

• Moderator: Dr. Nina Talley - Director of Career Development, Center for Career & Professional Development, University of South Florida
• Dr. Christian Chan - Assistant Professor, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
• Victor Massaglia - Director of Career Services, University of Minnesota School of Public Health 

Resources

• CPT Project for Session 2: Submitting Professional Proposals
• Career Practitioners of Tomorrow Guide: https://bit.ly/NCDA-DICI-CPT 
• Contact CPT: https://forms.gle/Y4oTKiL4kpdiisF69