The Principles Certificate program is a widely recognized, industry-standard program that provides a solid foundation of entry-level training for procurement professionals in the public sector. OPBA is committed to continuous improvement of the program to ensure that learners have a meaningful experience. Since 2020, we have been modernizing the delivery and content. Read on to learn what you can expect in 2023.
Schedule: The 2023 schedule is now available on the OPBA website enabling you to plan your professional development calendar for the coming year. The limited class size can often mean that classes fill up early, so be sure to register soon.
Principles Exam: We are making it easier to apply to write the Principles exam. Learners still need to submit the application, which is found on the payment page, but no longer need to submit proof of membership and attendance in the Principles courses. Staff will now review the OPBA membership profile for the certificates of attendance. For proof of the additional requirement of having attended two courses/workshops/meetings, the applicant must ensure that the evidence is either in their profile or submit it along with their application.
The Principles exam was offered monthly in 2022 due to the number of people waiting to write the exam as we transitioned to the electronic version. In 2023, the writing periods for the Principles exam will be March, June, and November and will continue to be accessible 24/7 from the 1st to the 7th of each month.
Important information about the construction seminars: The construction module has been rewritten and will be available in the spring. The content has been expanded and built into two courses: Introduction to Construction and Advanced Construction. As with most other Principles seminars, both sessions are 6 hours each, held over two half days. The Introduction to Construction will remain an elective along with the Co-operative Purchasing seminar. The Advanced Construction course can be used as one of the additional meetings and will also be open to anyone with some construction experience who would like to build on their knowledge.
New Instructors: We will welcome seven new instructors to the Principles seminars in 2023. They have just completed their training and are eager to get started. Their orientation includes observing, teaching with a mentor, and eventually teaching independently.
Price Increase: Fees are increasing to $254.25 (including hst) for members and $310.75 (including hst) for non-members. The fee increase supports the ongoing development of the Principles Program so we can maintain the relevance and currency of the program and materials.
Do you have questions about the Principles Certificate program? Contact members@opba.ca.