b"PILLARS OF PROFESSIONALISMSeed industry players need to hone their skills to compete in the world of today. Those in the know tell us how to succeed in the modern professional landscape.Marc ZienkiewiczAFTER TWO YEARSof a pandemic, a lot has changed:Rethink Seed Production Trainingremote work, virtual events, online courses, the list goesSeed growers are highly skilled individuals running on. As COVID restrictions lift and you and your employ- complex operations that produce the highest quality seed ees begin to plot out a path forward in this changedin the world. To ensure success, seed growers and their world, its important to know the necessary skills weteams must be up to date on seed production standards, should have to thrive in the modern business landscape. regulations and procedures, and best management prac-These skills form the pillars of professionalism fortices for Canadas seed sector. success in the post-COVID seed sector. We present fiveThis is no small task, but professional development can skills and the people whove mastered them to help youhelp seed growers stand out in the modern marketplace and your organization ensure you have what it takes to beand take their skills and businesses to the next level.a professional. Up until now, there havent been many options for seed-specific learning and professional development opportunities for seed growers and seed business employ-ees in Canada. Caroline Lafontaine and the team at the Canadian Seed Growers Association (CSGA) are meeting PRO:the challenge.Caroline Lafontaine Investing in ourselves, our businesses, and our teams through continuous professional development is cru-POSITION:cial, says Lafontaine. She is helping lead an organization Chief Operating Officer moving into the online learning space and filling the seed sectors learning void.ORG:In 2022, CSGA will launch CSGA Learn, its new volun-Canadian Seed Growerstary professional development eLearning program. CSGA Association (Ottawa, Ont.) Learn will provide new ways for seed growers and seed businesses to invest in themselves and their teams. With A DIGITAL BADGE:CSGA Learn, CSGA is answering the demand for more training options, she says. Helps you gain recognitionCSGA Learn offers 10 different courses, each focusing for significant professionalon a particular aspect of the seed system, including seed development by allowing you toclasses, production standards, roguing, plot probation and easily share achievements. breeder seed. An increasing number of professional development Helps prospective customersprograms and recognitions offer digital badges. Starting in quickly verify a digital badge2022, CSGA will offer digital badges to those who possess holders competencies and skills. CSGA recognitions.Provides credibility and visually declares an individualsWhile CSGA currently manages two professional commitment to professional development. recognitionsCSGA-Accredited Plot Grower and CSGA-Recognized Plant Breederthe association is also nowLets the world know what you've accomplished. Post themlaunching the Accredited Seed Grower designation. on your social media pages, your email signature and yourThis is an opportunity for experienced growers to website. expand their knowledge and benchmark their skills against National Occupational Standards for seed produc-tion. Plus, they obtain that digital badge to help them demonstrate their commitment to the certified seed.14GERMINATION.CAMARCH 2022"