The PRO Academy aims to cultivate a new generation of parks and recreation professionals who are adept at managing operations, enhancing community engagement, and ensuring the sustainable stewardship of natural and recreational assets, while implementing best practices and current trends. Mid-level professionals (e.g., facility supervisors, program coordinators, operations managers, etc.) looking to advance their careers and operational expertise are encouraged to participate.
The PRO Academy is delivered over the course of two days providing participants 1.3 CEU (i.e., 13 contact hours pre-approved for both the Certified Park and Recreation Professional ("CPRP") and Certified Park and Recreation Executive ("CPRE") certifications) and all lessons align with CAPRA standards.
General Information and Prices
The OUTCOMES
- Enhanced Skills: Participants will gain practical knowledge in the critical areas of operations management.
- Leadership Growth: Emphasis on leadership development ensures that graduates of the academy are not only effective managers but also visionary leaders within their departments.
- Industry Recognition: Graduates will receive a certificate of completion, recognizing their specialized training in parks and recreation operations, which can bolster their career prospects.
- Sustainable and Resilient Practices: Knowledge of sustainability initiatives will help participants incorporate sustainable and resilient practices (financial, environmental)
The LESSONS
- What is Your Why?
- Soft Skills
- Program and Budgeting
- Park/Facility Skills
- Admin Skills
- Each lesson ladders up to one or more CAPRA accreditation standard including:
- 1.7 – Agency Relationships
- 2.0 – Planning
- 3.5 – Utilization of Technology
- 4.0 – Human Resources
- 5.0 – Financial Management
- 5.1.4 – Private, Corporate and Non-Profit Support Procedures
- 6.0 – Programs and Services Management
- 7.0 – Facilities and Land Management
- 7.8 – Environmental Sustainability Policy and Programs
- 8.0 – Public Safety, Law Enforcement and Security
The SCHEDULE
Thursday, April 30, 2026 *
Continental breakfast and full lunch provided.
8:00 am - 8:30 am ... Check-In
8:30 am - 9:30 am ... Pre Session
9:30 am - 9:45 am ... Break
9:45 am - 11:00 am ... Session #1
11:00 am - 11:15 am ... Break
11:15 am - 12:45 pm ... Session #2
12:45 pm - 2:00 pm ... Lunch
2:00 pm - 3:30 pm ... Session #3
3:30 pm - 3:45 pm ... Break
3:45 pm - 5:15 pm ... Session #4
Friday, May 1, 2026 *
Continental breakfast and full lunch provided.
8:00 am - 8:45 am ... Check-In
8:45 am - 10:15 am ... Session #5
10:15 am - 10:30 am ... Break
10:30 am - 12:00 pm ... Session #6
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm ... Lunch
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm ... Session #7
2:30 pm - 2:45 pm ... Break
2:45 pm - 4:15 pm ... Session #8
*Daily schedule is subject to change.
The LEADERS
Chris Nunes, CPRE; Broken Compass; Chief Operating Officer, The Woodlands Township (TX)
Janet Bartnik, CPRP, Deputy Director of Parks, Recreation & Tourism, Prince William County (VA)
The HOW
Registration covers all learning materials, two breakfasts, and two lunches. Those who complete the entirety of the program are eligible to be awarded 1.3 CEU (no additional fee) and a certificate of completion.
Prices: $519 CPRS members, $649 non-members
Registration closes on Monday, April 6, 2026.
More information