Florida Public Sector Labor Relations Professional Certification Program

Program Overview

In August 2000, FPELRA began a comprehensive, four-module training program that, when successfully completed, would provide participants with a certification as a Florida Public Sector Labor Relations Professional (FLRP). There are over 150 Certified Florida Public Sector Labor Relations Professionals who have successfully completed the Program since August 2000. The four training modules are:

• Introduction to Collective Bargaining & Overview of Chapter 447, F. S., The Public Employees Relations Act
• Collective Bargaining Simulation
• Impasse Hearing Simulation
• Grievance Handling & Arbitration Simulation

Each of the four modules in the certification program provides you with a hands-on, interactive experience. Each module is designed to provide real-world experience to the attendees. Trainers and coaches are experienced practitioners in the public sector labor relations process in Florida.

Our FPELRA Professional Certification Brochure contains the full details on each of our modules.

We are also extremely pleased that the University of Central Florida in Orlando has recognized our certification program and will provide 0.8 CEU for the successful completion of each seminar in the Certification series. Application can be made after each seminar or after the four seminar series (3.2 CEU’s) is completed. A CEU fee of $25.00 per seminar ($100 after completion of the series) must be submitted to the University of Central Florida along with certification of completion obtainable from webmaster@fpelra.org

Please note: that the first module “Introduction to Collective Bargaining & Overview of Chapter 447, F.S., is a prerequisite. This module must be completed prior to taking the other program modules. The other three modules should be taken in the order shown above, but is not required

If you are interested in serving on the Training Committee, please drop a line to our FPELRA Training Coordinator

2012 Schedule:

This is the calendar year 2012 schedule leading to Professional Certification

“Introduction to Collective Bargaining/Overview of Chapter 447, F. S., the Public Employees Relations Act”
Sunday, February 5, 2012

This initial module, which must be completed prior to enrolling for modules 2, 3, and 4, provides a complete summary of the public sector bargaining process in Florida. It includes an overview of Chapter 447, F.S. The Public Employees Relations Act, How to prepare for Bargaining, Understanding the Politics of Bargaining, Good Faith Bargaining, Executive Sessions, Impasse Procedure, and more. This module, critical for understanding the preliminary collective bargaining process, will be conducted by professional trainers/educators and attorneys specializing in labor law. FPELRA’s Collective Bargaining Manual is included with registration of this module.

“Collective Bargaining Simulation”
Thursday, April 12, 2012

This module allows participants to apply the knowledge gained through attendance at the “Introduction to Collective Bargaining” module. Participants will role-play both management and union positions during a simulated bargaining session. Trained coaches assist the participants through the process.

“Impasse Hearing Simulation”
To Be Announced Soon!

This module provides participants “hands on” experience in a simulated impasse hearing between the parties. The day culminates with a Special Master hearing, the rendering of a Special Master recommendation and the subsequent process to culminate the contract process under these circumstances. This module, will be conducted by professional trainers/educators and attorneys specializing in labor law.

“Grievance Handling & Arbitration Simulation”
To Be Announced Soon!

This module focuses on contract maintenance issues of the collective bargaining agreement and focuses on how to handle grievances and prepare for arbitration. The day culminates with an Arbitration Hearing, presentations, rebuttals and the rendering of the award and debriefing exercise. FPELRA’s Grievance Manual is included in the registration fee for this segment.

Seminar Location & Hotel Information

Renaissance Orlando Hotel Airport
5445 Forbes Place
Orlando, FL 32812
Phone: 407.240-1000
Fax: 407.240.1005

Take an advance peek.

Like all FPELRA-sponsored training sessions, this certification program is offered to members and non-members alike. Please note that members receive a discounted rate on all training sessions offered by the Association during the year, as well as the annual training conference. If you are not already a member, you may apply online on our membership page.