S2 E6 - COAAA University

The mission of COAAA University is to create a confident, competent, compassionate, and connected workforce. Learn from Erica Drewry, Director of Client Services, and Carrie Oswald, Clinical Operations Analyst, about the vision and planning efforts that have gone into the creation of COAAA University.The university, a training program developed from clinical best practices, is designed to equip staff with fundamental skills for working with the public. Katie, Erica, and Carrie dive into the implementation process, the benefits of the program, and the importance of staff development. Join them as they share their enthusiasm and pride in the success of COAAA University and their dedication to serving the community.Key Takeaways1. COAAA University is a comprehensive training program developed by a committee to enhance the skills and competencies of staff members working with the public.2. The training program covers essential topics such as crisis management, documentation, assessment, and professional growth, aimed at building a connected and competent workforce.3. COAAA University involves both internal and external speakers and is designed based on the needs of adult learners, providing interactive and relevant training sessions."We expect for it to always be growing. And that's really cool, and it, it helps to keep the bar high for COAAA University."— Carrie Oswald4. The program is focused on promoting the values of the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (COAAA) and aims to create a cohesive team through discussions and interactions.5. The potential expansion of COAAA University into a leadership track and supervisor-specific classes is being discussed, highlighting the initiative's commitment to workforce development and skill enhancement.6. COAAA University has introduced a new supervisor group to support and train new supervisors, creating a community for sharing challenges and experiences, and is developing a new supervisor toolbox."So maybe right now, we're kind of in the 101 courses, and then we'll get to the 200 level courses on 300. I kinda wanna see it become the umbrella for internal staff training."— Erica Drewry7. The program has implemented paid student internships with a focus on onboarding orientation, and COAAA University aims to formalize paid placements to support staff and ease supervision.8. COAAA University focuses on training social workers in competencies and provides support for field instructors, and enrollment in the program is mandatory for new hires and open to contributions from existing staff.9. The evaluation of COAAA University courses focuses on feedback from participants about content, delivery, and applicability to the job, with positive feedback received on the interactive and relevant training."We are COAAA first and foremost, and who are we as COAAA? We know that we're a great place to work."— Katie White10. COAAA University represents the agency's dedication to its employees and the community, aiming to create a ripple effect in the community through the development and support of a dedicated workforce.Memorable Moments00:00 Worked closely with COAAA, medical social worker.04:49 COAAA University, a dream based on best practices.06:54 Formed committee, planning, curriculum development, stakeholder engagement.10:29 Embracing COAAA identity and promoting professional growth.13:44 Mix of clinicians share knowledge in diverse training.18:36 University relies on students to shape programs.20:05 Continuous planning and refinement for COAAA University.25:00 New supervisor group discussing roles; challenges, successes.26:11 Small group meetings for new supervisors learning.30:14 MSW competencies guide simplified.35:30 Excited for feedback on course content quality.38:21 Successful launch after dedicated committee's hard work.39:28 Balancing multiple priorities can be challenging.42:33 Proud to be part of an impactful initiative.Let me know what you think of this podcast, as well as any ideas you have for an episode. Email me at [email protected]!Copyright 2026 Central Ohio Area Agency On Aging