High-quality teaching is known to be a leading factor in student success.²⁵ However, K-12 schools continue to battle an ongoing faculty shortage that was worsened by the pandemic.²⁶ This situation has led to an increased focus on faculty retention.²⁷

For educators in CTE programs, the hands-on nature of study has made it even more challenging to navigate the pandemic. According to the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), CTE educators will "need time, support and professional development to recover and reflect on lessons learned."²⁸ And, new educators will need training on new delivery methods and technologies.²⁹

Regular training can enhance an employee’s initiative and quality of work as well as make them more committed to achieving organizational goals.³⁰ And, research suggests that employees who are engaged and thriving are 59% less likely to seek another job elsewhere.³¹

If you're interested in starting or expanding a simulation program, professional development will be an important factor in your program's success. Enrolling in courses taught by skilled simulation educators can help empower your faculty with the knowledge they need to thrive and grow an effective simulation program.