Article 19
Bargaining History
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It was the mutual interest of the parties that this Article address the issue of enhancing and maintaining a quality workforce. The parties agreed that we need to develop an approach that would be visible and have the support of DOL management.

Section 2 provides for the development of Agency Retention Plans to implement Secretary's Order 2-91. The goal of these plans is the development of specific programs to develop and retain employees, with a goal of providing more opportunites for career advancement.

Section 3 provides for a Career Enhancement Program that would provide opportunities for employees to move into technical, administrative, or professional positions within the Agency or the Department. It was also acknowledged that this program will supplement the already-existing opportunities for career enhancement in which DOL employees may progress within the Department. It is a program that will be available to all DOL employees and not limited to any particular group. This program replaces the upward mobility program in the previous Agreement.

A major component of this program will be the establishment of career counseling in the Agency and DOL Academy. In addition, technical and non-technical training will be provided for employees identified by the Agencies to participate in the program.

The Department will establish a central employment office that will provide for career counseling for DOL employees and assist employees in identifying career opportunities that may exist in Agencies throughout the Department.

Section 4 provides for an annual career fair. It is understood that circumstances may warrant conducting the fair on a less frequent basis.