NOAA's National Weather Service is recognized as a world leader in providing climate, water, and weather services. We're recognized as one of the best Government organizations, consistently receiving high customer service ratings from the American public. Serving behind the scenes, CFO/CAO employees provide critical support to forecasters, hydrologists, and others who provide timely and accurate tornado, hurricane, tsunami, and flash flood warnings by ensuring they have the fiscal and administrative resources necessary to accomplish the mission.

The NWS's standing is a source of pride for employees within NWS, and our goal is to maintain the high standards set by those who preceded us. Achieving the standards we set for ourselves, as well as those expected by the Congress and the American public, requires personal dedication, drive, and commitment.

Likewise, the organization must have the same level of commitment to its people. With that in mind, I'm pleased to announce the CFO/CAO Investment in Excellence - Applied Learning Program. The program's goals are two-fold: ensuring continuity of organizational excellence; and, positioning our CFO/CAO employees to accept the mantle of leadership. Investing in our employees' development provides opportunity for career growth and progression, and ensures a return on investment, which is manifested in a continuing legacy of excellence.

The Program, which focuses on individuals within the Office of the CFO/CAO, encourages self-motivated, high performers to reach higher than their current position. In turn, selected employees are provided tools to be able to accomplish their goals. The program will stimulate our employee's growth through structured, applied learning and assignments.

While the Program is expected to be highly selective, our investment to everyone is a commitment to support your development. Whether you decide to apply or not, I'm committed to ensuring we have the tools necessary to perform our leadership and support functions.

The applications can be accessed by clicking on the following links: Practical Track and Academic Track. I encourage you to consider applying. The deadline for submitting an application, with supervisory endorsement, is June 22, 2007. If you have any questions about the program, please contact Ms. Jackie Conyers at either 301.713.1698x122 or jackie.conyers@noaa.gov.