What is the GNWT’s Workforce Development Framework?

The Workforce Development Framework outlines the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) Learning and Development programs with the goals of:

• Providing a model for learning and development to foster a learning culture across the GNWT; 

• Improving awareness for employees and managers of approaches to workforce development; and 
• Identifying areas for continuous improvement in the GNWT approach to workforce development. 

The framework provides the structure for GNWT employees and managers to plan for and participate in education and training programs and activities and in employment support services that allow employees to develop and improve access to learning and development opportunities within the GNWT and opportunities for advancement within the GNWT.

How do I use the Framework?

Employee learning and development is mainly facilitated through performance development, which is a combination of performance management and employee development that is based on the GNWT’s Competency Model.

Employees and Managers are jointly responsible for using Learning Plans as a tool to plan and manage employee learning goals to achieve work objectives and enhance competency development.

The Framework provides information and tools that will help prepare employees with the required competencies needed for job performance. Managers and employees will need to consider the best way to apply the principles outlined in the framework to best match their particular context and environment.

You may want to refer to the Framework in the following situations:

• Developing an employee Learning Plan
• Reviewing/Completing Performance Documents
• Hiring for positions that require supplemental training and development (Internships, Regional Recruitment, Indigenous Career Gateway, etc.).

What are the Four Pathways to employee learning and development?

Within the GNWT, there are 4 primary pathways to employee learning and development:

• Formal and directed learning
• Self-directed skill development
• Learning through experience
• Learning through people

The Framework includes a comprehensive list of learning and development approaches available to GNWT employees, organized by pathway.

What are my role and responsibilities?

• Employees consider their personal learning goals and take advantage of the various pathways available to them and work with their manager to develop Learning Plans.
• Managers work with employees to further identify learning opportunities and develop Learning Plans. 
• Departments develop an overall approach to employee development, including aligning with succession planning.
• The Human Resource Branch of the Department of Finance ensures corporate programs, services, and supports are in place to support workforce development.