Calendar

FELTG Executive Director Deborah Hopkins instructing a class
Oct
5
Tue
Virtual Training Event – Conducting Effective Harassment Investigations
Oct 5 – Oct 7 all-day

Download Registration Form

Event Description

Investigating harassment in your Federal agency can be an intimidating assignment, one that is rife with innuendo, conflicting accounts, and raw emotions. Ensuring that your investigation is legally compliant and protects employees, while helping the agency minimize liability, is a taxing task. It’s even more challenging during the COVID-19 pandemic when most investigations must be done virtually.

Together, these three instructor-led live training sessions will provide a solid basis for a successful and effective approach to conducting legally-sufficient harassment investigations that stand up upon third-party review. Peruse MSPB and EEOC cases and you’ll find that poorly conducted investigations are far more common than they should be, and the cost of these investigations to agencies are bigger than you’d expect.

Understand the differences between EEO and non-EEO harassment. Learn the best techniques to conduct an investigation – whether onsite or virtually. Write a report that covers all the crucial information. And much more.

This open enrollment FELTG Virtual Training Institute program Conducting Effective Harassment Investigations offers opportunities to ask questions of FELTG’s experienced instructors, and get answers in real time. Plus, this program fulfills the requirements for 8-hour annual EEO investigator refresher training.

You can register for any of the sessions individually, or you can register for all three. This program runs from 12:30 – 4:00 eastern each day, with a 30-minute break from 2:00 – 2:30 eastern. Participants will receive program materials via email on Monday, October 5.

Download Registration Form



Tuesday, October 5, 2021

Session 1: Investigating Harassment: Misconduct Principles

12:30 pm – 4:00 pm eastern (break from 2:00 – 2:30)
Presented by Deborah J. Hopkins, Attorney at Law, FELTG President

Course Description: An effective harassment investigation begins with a solid foundation of misconduct law in the federal workplace. Attorney and FELTG President Deborah J. Hopkins will explain the principles that underpin a successful investigation of federal employee misconduct, whether it’s on-duty or off-duty. Attendees will learn the five elements of discipline and understand how they relate to the misconduct investigation process. Plus, they’ll learn about evidence standards and burdens of proof in misconduct cases, how Douglas factors play in to an investigation, the importance of nexus, what to do when a witness won’t cooperate, and much more.

Learning Objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Identify the relationship between the foundations of federal accountability and misconduct investigations.
  • Identify and collect relevant penalty evidence during the investigation.
  • Recognize the mistakes that derail effective misconduct and harassment investigations.

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

Session 2: Understanding Harassment and Planning the Investigation

12:30 pm – 4:00 pm eastern (break from 2:00 – 2:30)
Presented by Katherine Atkinson, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

Course description: What is the scope of the investigation? Who should you interview? What documents are you going to need? Preparing your investigative plan is a critical step in developing a legally sufficient investigation. Attorney Katherine Atkinson will explain the proper role of the investigator and how you can avoid the pitfalls of an insufficient investigation with the proper preparation and knowledge. Plus, she’ll answer important questions about representation: Does the witness have the right to a representative? Does the union have a right to attend the interview – even if the witness doesn’t want the union there? What rights does agency management have in the process?

Learning Objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Discern the difference between EEO and non-EEO harassment, and the impact that has on the investigations’ legal sufficiency.
  • Identify witness rights and management rights.
  • Recognize the three basic characteristics of evidence in a harassment investigation.

Thursday, October 7, 2021

Session 3: Conducting the Investigation and Writing the Report

12:30 pm – 4:00 pm EDT (break from 2:00 – 2:30)
Presented by Katherine Atkinson, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

Course description: Attorney Katherine Atkinson will share legal principles and proven guidance to navigate this most critical and challenging part of harassment investigations: conducting the interviews and gathering relevant evidence. Attendees will leave the session with techniques for questioning, tools for reading body language, suggestions on how to handle difficult personality types, and tips for writing the fact-finding report (FFR) and report of investigation (ROI). Ms. Atkinson will also share how technology is changing the investigation process, including a very timely discussion of conducting virtual interviews.

Learning Objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Identify the similarities and differences in conducting onsite and virtual interviews.
  • Apply logic and judgment to evaluate conflicting statements.
  • Write a fulsome report on the findings from the harassment investigation.


Price

  • Early Bird Tuition (register by Sept 20): One Session = $340  |  Two Sessions = $650  |  Full Event = $900
  • Standard Tuition (register Sept 21 – Oct 7): One Session = $390  |  Two Sessions = $695  |  Full Event = $950
  • Rates per registrant. No split registrations permitted.
  • Want to register a group? Group discounts are available through Sept 20. Contact FELTG.
  • REGISTER NOW.

 

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex to broadcast this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more attendees for the full event. Group discounts are only available through September 20.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Oct
21
Thu
Webinar – Workplace Investigations: Successfully Interviewing Witnesses With Mental and Behavioral Health Conditions
Oct 21 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructor

Shana Palmieri

Program Description

For many, it’s the most difficult and unpredictable part of the workplace investigation — conducting the interview. This is especially the case when the witness has a behavioral or mental health issue, or violent tendencies. Shana Palmieri, LCSW, will provide you with a set of tools to handle these challenging interviews. During this 60-minute webinar, Ms. Palmieri, the co-founder and COO of Xferall, will explain temperament traits and personality disorders, and then provide a road map for interviews. She’ll share guidance on how to de-escalate emotionally charged situations.

Attendees to this webinar will also learn how to:

  • Interview witnesses with violent tendencies.
  • Handle delicate interviews.
  • Interview witnesses with past trauma.

This class focuses on the practical and clinical side of managing employees with behavioral health conditions, rather than the legal side.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $285 per site, per webinar (payment required by October 8)
  • Standard Tuition: $315 per site, per webinar (payments made October 9 or later)

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $50 per teleworker, on a space-available basis.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Oct
26
Tue
Virtual Training Event – Nondiscriminatory Hiring in the Federal Workplace: Advancing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility
Oct 26 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

The federal hiring process requires patience. Take the time to do it correctly. Those who hurry the hiring process are not only likely to make a mistake in hiring, but they may also end up without sufficient documentation to combat a discrimination complaint, making the allegation difficult to defend against.

With a flurry of Executive Orders early in his term, President Biden made it clear that diversity and inclusion are priorities in the federal workplace.  His most recent Executive Order 14035 on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in the Federal Workforce  charges agencies with identifying “strategies to advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, and eliminate, where applicable, barriers to equity, in Federal workforce functions, including: recruitment; hiring … and onboarding programs.”

FELTG instructor and attorney at law Katherine Atkinson will explain how to ensure your hiring practices are nondiscriminatory and align with merit system principles and the Administrations’ priorities. Ms. Atkinson will cover the types of interview questions that cause problems, and will discuss selection panel roles and responsibilities, including ensuring the selecting officials implement best practices to develop and maintain evidence demonstrating the non-selection was neither discriminatory nor retaliatory.

Join FELTG for this special event, from wherever you are working — agency office or home. The program will be presented live, and you’ll have time to ask questions and get answers in real time. This program runs from 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm eastern, with a 30-minute break from 2:00 – 2:30 eastern.

This program meets the President’s mandate to provide training on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the Federal workplace.

Instructor

Katherine Atkinson

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $340 (register by October 12)
  • Standard Tuition: $380 (register October 13 or later)
  • Rates per registrant.
  • Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through October 12. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device. You may also attend the training event as an audio training, by dialing in over the phone and following along with the materials independently.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • What if I want to attend a session but have a schedule conflict?
    • FELTG plans to offer this live event periodically, so check our calendar for upcoming dates.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals. Group discounts are available through October 12.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Nov
2
Tue
Webinar — Barking Up the Wrong Tree? Service and Therapy Animals in the Workspace
Nov 2 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructors

Ricky Rowe, Deborah Hopkins

Course Description

Pet ownership increased and animal shelters emptied during COVID-enforced lockdowns in 2020. Undoubtedly, remote workers have enjoyed the therapeutic benefits that come with owning a pet. But does that make their new furry friends therapy or emotional support animals? And can no-longer-remote employees bring their new four-legged friends to the workplace? In most cases, the answer is an easy no. But if it’s a reasonable accommodation request, the answer isn’t quite as definitive.

The EEOC’s stance that an emotional support animal may be a required reasonable accommodation for a qualified individual with a disability, even if it is not a trained service dog, fails to provide an easy answer.

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Determine the difference between a service animal and a therapy animal.
  • Recognize when an emotional support animal would be a reasonable accommodation
  • Effectively navigate the interactive process.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $270 per site, per webinar (payment required by September 27)
  • Standard Tuition: $295 per site, per webinar (payments made September 28 or later)

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $50 per teleworker, on a space-available basis.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Nov
3
Wed
Virtual Training Event – The Exemption Proves the Rule: Reasonable Accommodation, Discipline, and the Vaccine Mandate
Nov 3 @ 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm

Download Individual Registration Form

About the Event

Federal employees have until November 22 to get vaccinated to comply with Executive Order 14043. The Biden Administration’s mandate is direct. However, a sizable percentage of the population still refuses to get the vaccination, and misinformation continues to spread. You should expect to have more than the usual share of requests for exemptions on either religious or medical grounds. How will you handle these requests? And how do you plan to discipline an employee who refused to get vaccinated?

Attorneys Katherine Atkinson and Deborah Hopkins (FELTG President), have the answers. They have stayed on top of the ever-changing guidance and mandates over the past year, providing FELTG customers with up-to-the-minute instruction on navigating the challenging issues related to COVID-19. Join them on November 3 for The Exemption Proves the Rule: Reasonable Accommodation, Discipline, and the Vaccine Mandate and you’ll leave with the basic framework for dealing with these unique and unprecedented challenges with a focus on:

  • Reasonable accommodation for disability
  • Reasonable accommodation for religion
  • Discipline for vaccine-related misconduct

Ms. Hopkins and Ms. Atkinson will walk you through the legal analysis for addressing challenges in these areas, and answer all your questions, including:

  • What medical conditions that qualify as disabilities under the ADA could exempt an employee from the vaccination mandate?
  • What is the definition of religion under Title VII?
  • When can you question the sincerity of an employee’s espoused religious belief?
  • How do you discipline an employee for using falsified vaccine cards?

Join FELTG for this critical and timely training, from wherever you are working — agency office or home. The program will be presented live, and you’ll have time to ask questions and get answers in real time. This program runs from 1 pm – 4:30 pm eastern, with a 30-minute break from 2:30 – 3:00 eastern.

Download Individual Registration Form

Instructors

Deborah Hopkins and Katherine Dave

Deborah J. Hopkins, Katherine Atkinson

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition (register by October 20): $355
  • Standard Tuition (register October 21 or later): $395
  • Rates per registrant.
  • Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through October 20. Contact FELTG.

 

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex to broadcast this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • What if I want to attend a session but have a schedule conflict?
    • FELTG also plans to offer this live event periodically, so check our calendar for upcoming dates.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals. Group discounts are available through October 20.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Nov
16
Tue
Webinar — So You Think You Can Dismiss That EEO Claim
Nov 16 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructor

Katherine Atkinson

Program Description

Katherine Atkinson DaveThere are several reasons why an EEO claim might be dismissed, but it’s not a decision that should be made too quickly or without much thought. A surprising number of agency dismissals are overturned by the EEOC each year. Don’t become another EEOC statistic.

FELTG Instructor Katherine Atkinson will review the lawful reasons for dismissing a claim — failure to state a claim, timeliness, collateral attack — and walk you through making that determination.

Learning objectives:

  • Identify claims that do not fall under the EEO process
  • Understand the components of timeliness in EEO claims
  • Draft legally-sufficient acceptance and dismissal documents

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $270 per site, per webinar (payment required by November 8)
  • Standard Tuition: $295 per site, per webinar (payments made November 9 or later)

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $50 per teleworker, on a space-available basis.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Dec
9
Thu
Virtual Training Event – Managing Employee Mental Health Challenges During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic
Dec 9 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Download Individual Registration Form

Course Description

If one of your agency’s employees had a mental health crisis in the workplace, would you know what to do? And considering most employees are still working remotely, how would you even know?

Almost 18 percent of all adults have a mental illness diagnosis at some point in their lives. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the ongoing mental health crisis in this country. Earlier this year, OPM released a memo on the importance of mental health and the well-being of Federal employees: “Awareness of mental health supports for Federal employees is an important element of protecting employee well-being and sustaining a high performing Federal workforce.”

This virtual training program will provide highly practical guidance and straight-forward advice on dealing with the very unique challenges you face at this time. Licensed Clinical Social Work Shana Palmieri will de-stigmatize the truth about “mental illness” and will explain the impact various mental health conditions have on individuals, and those they work with. She’ll also provide strategies for effectively supervising and managing employees with these conditions, even as they work remotely.Ms. Palmieri will answer challenging questions, such as:

  • What do you do if you suspect a mental health crisis and the employee won’t answer his phone?
  • How do you provide constructive criticism to someone who exhibits narcissistic behavior?
  • If you suspect that one of your employees has a mental impairment, what can you do beyond directing them to EAP?
  • What are the symptoms of a personality disorder?

Attendees will learn how to walk the tenuous line between providing accommodations and support for a mental health condition and holding employees accountable for their work performance. Attend this timely virtual training event and learn strategies to:

  • Improve performance and success for employees with mental health conditions.
  • Communicate effectively with all employees.
  • Successfully accommodate employees with behavioral health conditions.
  • Set appropriate boundaries and expectations in the workplace.
  • Handle a crisis or outburst in the workplace.

This class focuses on the practical and clinical side of managing employees with behavioral health conditions, rather than the legal side. This event will be held from 1:00 – 3:00 pm ET. You won’t want to miss it.

This program meets the President’s mandate to provide training on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the Federal workplace.

Download Individual Registration Form

Instructor

Shana Palmieri

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $295 (register by November 22).
  • Standard Tuition: $325 (register by November 23-December 9).
  • Rates per registrant.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex to broadcast this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals. Group discounts are available through November 22.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Jan
20
Thu
Webinar – Workplace Investigations: Trauma and PTSD – Considerations for Effective Interviews
Jan 20 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructor

Shana Palmieri

Program Description

For many, it’s the most difficult and unpredictable part of the workplace investigation — conducting the interview. This is especially the case when the witness has suffered trauma. And it’s likely to happen, considering these sobering statistics:

  • Seven to eight percent will have PTSD at some point in their lifetimes.
  • Eight million adults will experience PTSD in a given year. This is only a small number of the people that experience a trauma.
  • Ten percent of women will experience PTSD at some point in their lifetimes, compared with four percent of men.

Shana Palmieri, LCSW, will provide you with a set of tools to handle these challenging interviews. During this 60-minute webinar, Ms. Palmieri, the co-founder and COO of Xferall, will explain the connection between trauma and memory and its implications for the interview. Attendees will learn the considerations of a trauma-influenced interview.

This class focuses on the practical and clinical side of managing employees who have experienced trauma, rather than the legal side.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $270 per site, per webinar (payment required by January 4)
  • Standard Tuition: $295 per site, per webinar (payments made January 5 or later)

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $50 per teleworker, on a space-available basis.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Jan
24
Mon
Virtual Training Event – Calling All Counselors: Initial 32-Hour Plus EEO Refresher Training
Jan 24 – Jan 27 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Event Description

The world of Federal EEO is constantly changing. With the expected deluge of complaints related to vaccine exemption denials, it’s also expected to get much more challenging in the next few months. Agencies will be onboarding new EEO counselors, and need to make sure they’re prepared for the unique challenges 2022 is sure to bring. FELTG has the solution — the most engaging, up-to-date, and comprehensive 32-hour EEO Counselor initial training available.

Over the course of four 8-hour days, FELTG’s experienced instructors will steer you through a carefully and meticulously crafted agenda that explains EEO law in easy-to-understand terms and helps you develop the skills necessary to be an effective EEO professional, and provides the mandatory 32-hour initial training for new counselors as required by EEOC.

Topics include an overview of the EEO process, the counselor’s responsibilities, the applicable statutes, theories of discrimination, remedies and more. Plus, we’ll focus on emerging issues related to COVID-19 and vaccine exemption requests, provide updated on LGBTQ+ discrimination, and take attendees through a thorough discussion of reasonable accommodation.

And there’s more.

Are you a veteran counselor looking for your 8-hour refresher? Attend one of the final three days of training to earn your refresher hours. Plus, if you work in another realm of EEO, you’re welcome to join us for the very latest guidance on all these timely topics.

This is an interactive class. You will not be asked to share your screen, but there will be many opportunities to participate, and you should be prepared to share and discuss.

You can’t afford to trust this required initial training to whatever is available at the last minute. Register by January 11 for the Early Bird rate.

Daily Agenda

Monday, January 24

EEO Counselor Training, Part I — Introduction and Role of the Counselor: Introduction to Counseling; the EEO process; timelines; requirements; why counseling first; EEO counselor approach; purpose of the EEO counselor; what makes a good EEO counselor; an intro to alternative dispute resolution; ADR in EEO counseling; the counselor’s role when ADR is elected.

Tuesday, January 25

EEO Counselor Training, Part II — Theories of Discrimination: EEOC jurisdiction; discrimination base on race, color, national origin, reprisal, and disability; intentional discrimination; hostile work environment; sexual harassment; LGBTQ status; MD-110; COVID-19 related EEO topics; vaccine mandates.

 8 per day

Wednesday, January 26

EEO Counselor Training, Part III — Interview Skills: Introduction to interview skills; interviewing the counselee; interviewing the RMO; meeting with counselee after RMO; interviewing difficult personality types; what happens if a contractor wants to file an EEO complaint.

 8 per day

Thursday, January 27

EEO Counselor Training, Part IV — Avoiding Mistakes; Writing the Report: Mistakes to avoid in the counseling process; organizing the report; issue spotting; knowing your audience; writing the narrative; writing styles; plain language writing.

 8 per day

Join FELTG for this training, from wherever you are working — agency office or home. The program will be presented live, and you’ll have time to ask questions and get answers in real time. This program runs from 9 am – 5 pm eastern each day.

 

Instructors

Robert Woods, Ricky Rowe, Katherine Atkinson, Ann Boehm

 

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition (register by January 11):                                                                                                                                              One Day = $575  |  Two Days = $1100  |  Three Days = $1575 | Four Days = $1995
  • Standard Tuition (register January 12-24):                                                                                                                                              One Day = $675  |  Two Days = $1200  |  Three Days = $1675 | Four Days = $2095
  • Rates per registrant. No split registrations permitted.
  • Want to register a group? Group discounts are available through January 11. Contact FELTG.
  • REGISTER NOW.

 

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more attendees for the full event. Group discounts are available through January 11.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Feb
8
Tue
Virtual Training Event – Managing COVID-related EEO Challenges in the Federal Workplace
Feb 8 @ 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm

Download Individual Registration Form

President Biden’s Executive Order requires all Federal employees to be vaccinated with no option for regular coronavirus testing to opt out of the mandate. What does this mean for employees who refuse to get vaccinated? Are there any religious exemptions that would allow employees to continue to work without vaccination? What about employees who cannot get vaccinated due to a disability – can agencies accommodate them?

Attorney Katherine Atkinson will not only share with you the latest guidance from the president’s EO, the EEOC and the CDC, but she will also explain how applying the basic EEO framework can answer the aforementioned and other puzzling EEO questions you may suddenly face. Because Ms. Atkinson will use a legal analysis to address these challenges, the answers and guidance you receive during this virtual training will be useful long after the coronavirus is gone.

Beyond the vaccination mandate, Ms. Atkinson will also help you answer the following questions and more:

  • Is an employee with asymptomatic COVID-19 an individual with a disability under the ADA and Rehabilitation Act?
  • Do more employees have potential retaliation claims now, even though the vaccine mandate is enjoined?
  • What should your agency do with pending vaccine exemption requests?

Plus, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions about the unique problems you’re facing during these unprecedented times.

 

Learning takeaways

Attendees will learn how to determine:

  • Whether an unvaccinated employee creates an undue hardship to an agency’s operations in the religious accommodation context
  • How the undue hardship determination is different for an employee who requested accommodation due to a disability
  • How to spot pandemic-related retaliation that constitutes a legal violation

This program runs from 1:00 – 4:30 eastern, with a 30-minute break from 2:30 – 3:00 eastern.

 

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition (register by January 24): $355
  • Standard Tuition (register January 25 or later): $395
  • Rates per registrant.
  • Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through January 24. Contact FELTG.

 

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals. Group discounts are available through January 24. 

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Feb
24
Thu
Winning EEO Cases Through Summary Judgment
Feb 24 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructor

Katherine Atkinson

Program Description

Unlike the MSPB, the EEOC allows parties to file motions for summary judgment, potentially eliminating the need for a time-consuming, expensive, and risky hearing. Yet, many agencies fail to take advantage of this opportunity. During this 60-minute webinar, FELTG Instructor Katherine Atkinson will explain the the importance of the Report of Investigation and thorough discovery, the benefits of motions for for summary judgment (MSJs), and what to include in the MSJ to best represent your client and case.

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Identify when to file a motion for summary judgment
  • Organize for the motion
  • Draft an effective motion that withstands third-party scrutiny

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $270 per site, per webinar (payment required by February 11)
  • Standard Tuition: $295 per site, per webinar (payments made February 12 or later)

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $50 per teleworker, on a space-available basis.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Feb
28
Mon
Virtual Training Event – Workplace Investigations Week
Feb 28 – Mar 4 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

This week focuses on conducting administrative investigations in the Federal workplace with an emphasis on employee misconduct including workplace harassment. After an overview of the substantive law, including EEO and non-EEO harassment, participants will learn procedures and best practices for conducting investigations in the Federal workplace, including planning the investigation, fact finding, collecting evidence, dealing with witnesses, understanding types of questioning, and testifying at hearing. The week concludes with a day focused on writing an investigative report. The program will include breakout discussions and interactive Q & A with the instructors.

Instructors

Ann Boehm, Shana Palmieri, Katherine Atkinson

Daily Agenda

Monday

Administrative Investigations: The Substantive Basis: Why investigate; discipline law and elements; understanding charges of misconduct; collecting penalty evidence; law behind other types of administrative investigations.

Tuesday

Harassment Investigations: Investigating allegations of harassment; differentiating between EEO and non-EEO harassment; the latest on LGBTQ+ harassment; witness rights.

Wednesday

Conducting the Investigation, Part I: Evidentiary principles; purpose of investigation; preparing for the investigation; role of the investigator; beginning the interview; union representation; how to successfully interview witnesses with behavioral or mental health issues or violent tendencies; de-escalating an emotionally-charged interview; handling delicate interviews; interviewing witnesses who have experienced trauma.

Thursday

Conducting the Investigation, Part II: Conducting the interview: handling hostile witnesses; assessing credibility/lies/hearing what isn’t said; body language; gathering other evidence; technology and investigations; high profile case considerations; testifying at an administrative hearing; rules for being an effective witness.

Friday

Writing the Investigative Report: Organizing for the report; establishing the chronology; writing for your audience; report writing style; report writing conventions; report organization; sample report.

Pricing

Most people attend the full training week, but you may opt out of any days you don’t plan to attend.

Early Bird Tuition (register by February 11):

  • 5 days = $2375
  • 4 days = $1995
  • 3 days = $1575
  • 2 days = $1100
  • 1 day = $575

Standard Tuition (register February 12-March 4):

  • 5 days = $2475
  • 4 days = $2095
  • 3 days = $1675
  • 2 days = $1200
  • 1 day = $675

Seminar registration includes a printed copy of the materials via USPS. In order to receive materials by the training date, please register by February 11 and provide a shipping address. Registrations received after February 11 will also receive printed materials, but materials are not guaranteed to arrive by the training date.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • This program is pre-approved for CLE credits in Virginia. CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person. No split registrations.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals for the full event. Group discounts are available through February 11.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Mar
9
Wed
Virtual Training Event – Honoring Diversity: Eliminating Microaggressions and Bias in the Federal Workplace
Mar 9 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

If you thought President Biden’s Executive Orders to advance racial equity throughout the Federal government and strengthen discrimination protections were just feel-good statements, think again. Agencies have until March 23, 2022 to put together their DEIA strategic plan. And then agencies will have to file annual DEIA reports to the White House.

This issue is NOT going away and it can’t be successfully addressed by sending the White House a list of policies and procedures. Employees, regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity or sexual orientation, will not feel respected and empowered unless the agency addresses unconscious bias and microaggressions in the workplace.

What is a microaggression? During this two-hour virtual training, FELTG Instructor Katherine Atkinson, attorney at law, will explain what microaggressions look like it in their various forms — microinsults, microassaults, and microinvalidations.

Whether intentional or not, microaggressions can be very hurtful to the employees who experience them, and such behaviors indicating implicit bias can lead to discrimination. They are warning signs of a potential hostile workplace. And they put a serious dent in employee morale and productivity.

Ms. Atkinson will also share an implicit bias test, explain its impact, and provide examples. She’ll provide a quick review of EEO law so you can determine when bias or microaggression leads to the level of discrimination.

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Identify acts of microaggression and acts influenced by implicit bias.
  • Recognize and define harassment.
  • Respond appropriately and effectively when you see a microaggression in the workplace.

This program meets the President’s mandate to provide training on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the Federal workplace.

Class will be held from 1:00-3:00 PM eastern.

Instructor

Katherine Atkinson

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $295 (register by February 22)
  • Standard Tuition: $325 (register February 23 to March 9)
  • Rates per registrant.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device. You may also attend the training event as an audio training, by dialing in over the phone and following along with the materials independently.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals. Group discounts are available until February 22.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Mar
16
Wed
Virtual Training Event – Nondiscriminatory Hiring in the Federal Workplace: Advancing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility
Mar 16 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Your agency has until March 23 to put together a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility (DEIA) strategic plan that not only identifies “strategies to advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility,” but also to “eliminate, where applicable, barriers to equity, in Federal workforce functions” such as hiring. This half-day virtual session will give you the guidance you need to ensure ensure your hiring practices are nondiscriminatory and align with the federal merit system principles.

Even if you weren’t facing down a deadline, you know: The federal hiring process is a challenging one that requires patience. Those who hurry the hiring process are not only likely to make a mistake in hiring, but they may also end up without sufficient documentation to combat a discrimination complaint, making the allegation difficult to defend against.

FELTG instructor and attorney at law Katherine Atkinson will explain the types of interview questions that cause problems, and will discuss selection panel roles and responsibilities, including ensuring the selecting officials implement best practices to develop and maintain evidence demonstrating the non-selection was neither discriminatory nor retaliatory.

Join FELTG for this special event, from wherever you are working — agency office or home. The program will be presented live, and you’ll have time to ask questions and get answers in real time. This program runs from 1:00 – 4:30 pm eastern, with a 30-minute break from 2:30 – 3:00.

This program meets the President’s mandate to provide training on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the Federal workplace.

Instructor

Katherine Atkinson

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $355 (register by March 2)
  • Standard Tuition: $395 (register March 3 or later)
  • Rates per registrant.
  • Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through March 2. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device. You may also attend the training event as an audio training, by dialing in over the phone and following along with the materials independently.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • What if I want to attend a session but have a schedule conflict?
    • FELTG plans to offer this live event periodically, so check our calendar for upcoming dates.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals. Group discounts are available through March 2.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Apr
4
Mon
Virtual Training Event – EEOC Law Week
Apr 4 – Apr 8 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Course Description

An increase in reasonable accommodations requests based on religion and disability.  Pandemic-related civil rights crises. Increase discussion of diversity and inclusion. Way too many harassment complaints. Talk of changes to the EEO process. If you’ve thought about registering for FELTG’s EEOC Law Week in the past, now is the time to act on it. This weeklong virtual is updated for 2022, including the latest on COVID-related challenges and workplace harassment.

This in-depth training overs the gamut of EEO issues, and provides usable guidance for all practitioners, regardless of experience level. FELTG’s expert speakers, drawing on years of experience from all sides of the litigation table, deliver a fast-paced week of strategies, principles, and authorities relative to the major aspects of the field of discrimination law in the federal government.

And it provides the required material for EEO counselors and investigators to receive refresher training hours

The program runs 12:30 – 4:30 pm eastern each day, with a break from 2:00 – 2:30.

3.5 per day.

Download Individual Registration Form

Who Should Attend

Attorneys; EEO managers and directors; EEO specialists; EEO counselors and investigators; reasonable accommodation coordinators; federal supervisors and managers who have complicated EEO issues in the workplace; Labor and Employee Relations specialists; union representatives.

Instructors

Katherine Atkinson, Ann Boehm, Bob Woods

Daily Agenda

Monday, April 4

Basic EEOC: Nuts & Bolts: Course topics: Statutory authority and jurisdiction of EEOC; an overview of the theories of discrimination; overview of the EEO process; amended and consolidated complaints; timeliness issues in the wake of the Supreme Court decisions in Morgan and Ledbetter.

Tuesday, April 5

Contractor Complaints; Intentional Discrimination and Reprisal Cases: Course topics: The agency’s role and obligations when a contractor files an EEO complaint; intentional discrimination analysis and cases; selection and promotion cases; reprisal analysis and case updates.

Wednesday, April 6

Accommodating Individuals with Disabilities: Course topics: The Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act, defining individual with a disability, understanding major life activities and substantial limitations; identifying essential job functions; the legal requirements for the interactive process; types of reasonable accommodation; the latest on the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) and relevant regulations.

Thursday, April 7

Current Trends in EEO Law: A Focus on Harassment: Course topics: The very latest on what’s happening in EEO; hostile environment harassment; gender stereotyping; same-sex harassment; recent court decisions on sexual orientation and transgender discrimination including the SCOTUS decision Bostock v. Clayton County; non-EEO harassment; settling EEO cases.

Friday, April 8

Mixed Cases; Damages & Remedies: Course topics: Understanding the world of mixed cases; overview of equitable remedies: back pay, front pay, reinstatement; non-pecuniary and pecuniary damages; past and future damages; damages offsets; the duty to mitigate damages; collateral sources and pre-existing conditions; multiple causations of harm; the eggshell complainant.

Pricing

Most people attend the full training week, but you may opt out of any days you don’t plan to attend.

Early Bird Tuition (register by March 18):

  • 5 days = $1475
  • 4 days = $1195
  • 3 days = $910
  • 2 days = $630
  • 1 day = $345

Standard Tuition (register March 19-April 8):

  • 5 days = $1550
  • 4 days = $1285
  • 3 days = $975
  • 2 days = $685
  • 1 day = $395

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals for the full event. Group discounts are available through March 18.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Apr
13
Wed
Virtual Training Event – Navigating the Realities of Employee Stress, Anxiety, and PTSD in the Post-pandemic Workplace
Apr 13 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Instructor

Shana Palmieri

Program Description

It may seem that you or your coworkers are a little more on edge lately. Most likely, you or they are. Nearly 8 million adults annually experienced Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome in a given year – and that data was collected before the pandemic. More recent studies show increases in stress, anxiety, and PTSD among adults, and at the same time agencies are planning to bring employees back to the physical workspace. Attendees will learn how PTSD, stress, and anxiety could manifest in the workplace and how agencies can create success for employees with these mental health conditions.

The rates of anxiety and depression among U.S. adults increased times 4 between April 2020 and August 2021, compared to 2019. Prior to the pandemic anxiety rates hovered between 7.4% – 8.6% of U.S. adults, compared to 28.2% and 37.2% after the pandemic hit.  Similarly, for depressive symptoms prior to the pandemic, the rates hovered between 5.9% -7.5% compared to 20.2% to 31.1% after the pandemic.

This FELTG training will supply your agency with the tools of knowledge, awareness and interventions to support a healthy, successful and productive workforce.

Topics covered include:

  • Overview of symptom profile and the impact on work performance
  • Overview of workplace accommodations for mental health conditions
  • Management strategies to provide support and improve productivity
  • Effective communication techniques and strategies
  • How to develop a plan and handle a behavioral health crisis in the workplace

This class focuses on the practical and clinical side of managing employees who have experienced stress, anxiety, and PTSD, rather than the legal side. This class will be held from 1:00 – 3:00 PM ET.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $295 (register by April 1)
  • Standard Tuition: $325 (register April 2 or later)
  • Rates per registrant.
  • Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through April 1. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device. You may also attend the training event as an audio training, by dialing in over the phone and following along with the materials independently.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • What if I want to attend a session but have a schedule conflict?
    • FELTG plans to offer this live event periodically, so check our calendar for upcoming dates.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals. Group discounts are available through April 1.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Apr
21
Thu
Webinar – Reasonable Accommodation: The Mistakes Agencies Make
Apr 21 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructor

Katherine Atkinson

Course Description

Are you likely to outright deny a reasonable accommodation request for leave or a flexible work schedule? Do you think undue hardship is a viable reason to deny most reasonable accommodations? Do you think it’s the supervisor’s responsibility to determine if the individual is really disabled? Have you reached out to an employee’s doctor to find out more about his disability? If so, we have one word for you: Uh-oh.

Oftentimes the best way to learn is by making mistakes. But not when it comes to reasonable accommodation law. Instead, learn from the costly and embarrassing blunders that other agencies have already made. Attorney Katherine Atkinson will review recent EEO cases to share these mistakes so you know how to avoid them.

During this webinar, attendees will learn:

  • What steps to take when an employee informs you of his or her disability
  • How to determine if telework would be an effective accommodation
  • When leave would be considered an accommodation
  • Whether long-term telework during the pandemic affects an agency’s processing of telework accommodation requests
  • Why undue hardship is rarely a successful defense for denying an accommodation request

Learn how to handle reasonable accommodation requests with confidence.

This program meets the President’s mandate to provide training on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the Federal workplace.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $270 per site, per session (payment made by April 5).
  • Standard Tuition: $295 per site, per session (payment made April 6 or later).

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $50 per teleworker, on a space-available basis.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Apr
26
Tue
Virtual Training Event – Emerging Issues in Federal Employment Law
Apr 26 – Apr 29 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Event Description

A politicized multi-year pandemic, a change in Administration, and nationwide trends, such as the Great Resignation, have set the Federal workplace reeling with seemingly new and daunting employment-related challenges, along with several that won’t go away. FELTG’s four-day training event Emerging Issues in Federal Employment Law returns for a third straight year, poised to provide you with the strategies and challenges to meet these unique times.

Three years ago, who would have thought that:

  • Federal agencies would be devising detailed plans to create hybrid workplaces?
  • The FLRA, under a Democratic Administration, would continue to issue decisions rankling unions?
  • The MSPB would go without a quorum for nearly 1,900 days?
  • Diversity and inclusion efforts would go from persona non grata to major priority with the stroke of a pen?
  • A Federal Circuit would suddenly end 40 years of MSPB precedent on PIPs, only to have OPM release conflicting guidance months later?
  • EEO discrimination issues would continue to flourish despite a majority of employees working from home?

The FELTG Virtual Training Institute’s Emerging Issues in Federal Employment Law program offers 11 unique and timely sessions to help you navigating these unsettling times. Hold remote and on-site employees equally accountable for performance and conduct. Stay up to date on changing legal issues involving performance improvement, leave, labor relations and more. Identify and prepare your agency for new EEO trends. Learn effective strategies for managing in a hybrid workplace and negotiating collective bargaining agreements.

We’ve developed these sessions to fit into your busy workdays. The training sessions are 75 minutes long, and you can register for all or for any of them individually. Or you can register for a whole day. Or all four days. Earn CLE credits and EEO refresher training credits.

The training is presented LIVE by FELTG’s experienced and respected instructors, who will answer your questions, so you get answers in real time.

Download Individual Registration Form

This program meets the President’s mandate to provide training on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the Federal workplace.



Tuesday, April 26, 2022

The New Hybrid Workplace

 

Session 1
10:30 – 11:45 am ET

 

Holding Employees Accountable Regardless of Their Work Location
Presented by Ann Boehm, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

 

Course description: Agencies face many challenges and unanswered questions about performance and conduct as they attempt to bring some workers back to the physical workspace. How do you hold workers accountable for performance and conduct when some are in the office and others are remote? How do you provide a performance demonstration period for an employee who is teleworking? As always, FELTG has the answers when it comes to accountability. Attendees will leave with a simple and effective approach to accountability, regardless of where the employee is working. Earn 1.25 CLE credits.


Session 2
1:00 – 2:15 pm ET

 

What to Do When Harassment Occurs Outside the Building
Presented by Katherine Atkinson, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

 

Course Description: Hostile environment harassment can be alleged based not only on sex, but any protected category, such as race, national origin, religion, disability, and more. With the pandemic-fueled increase in telework and virtual meetings, and continued vitriol on social media, hostile environment harassment does not require that people be in the same location. Attendees will learn how to identify hostile work environment scenarios, discuss agency and supervisory liability, and develop successful prevention techniques. Earn 1.25 CLE credits. 1.25


Session 3
3:00 – 4:15 pm ET 

 

The New World of Work: Understanding Expectations, Aspirations, and Opportunities
Presented by Anthony Marchese, PhD., Consultant/Author/Trainer, FELTG Instructor

 

Course Description: The Pandemic of 2020-2022 thrust leaders into an unusual, unsettling territory where many are unequipped to rapidly respond to the systematic shift in employee expectations. Employees want increased autonomy and a voice in the decision-making process. With increased scrutiny of the employee value proposition (EVP), employees are eagerly anticipating how things will look in the next 6-12 months. Attendees will learn about embedded and emerging trends happening across the Federal landscape and leave with relevant best practices to navigate this landscape as a supervisor.


Wednesday, April 27, 2022

The Ever-Changing Law

 

Session 4
10:30 – 11:45 am ET

 

Santos, OPM and Performance Accountability: What Gives?
Presented by Robert Woods, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

 

Course Description: Last year, the Federal Circuit in Santos v. NASA undid more than 40 years of case precedent, requiring agencies to have substantial evidence of poor performance before they can place an employee on a PIP. Yet, OPM’s proposed regulations, while not yet final, seem to indicate that employees must first be notified and given an opportunity to improve. Don’t let these seemingly contradictory approaches keep you from taking appropriate action. Attendees will leave this session with clear guidance and an effective approach for placing an employee on notice about unacceptable performance and explaining to the employee what’s required next. Earn 1.25 CLE credits.


 

Session 5
1:00 – 2:15 pm ET

 

What’s New in Leave 2022?
Presented by Barbara Haga, President/Federal HR Services, FELTG Senior Instructor

 

Course description: Leave is an ever-changing topic and 2022 is no exception.  The passage of the NDAA for FY 2022 created a new type of leave: Parental Bereavement Leave will allow for two weeks of paid time off in the event of death of a son or daughter.  The devil, of course, is in the details.  Which employees are covered?  How is son or daughter defined?  As if that wasn’t enough, the NDAA for FY 2021 made a change to the type of service that is qualifying to become FMLA eligible, and the regulations implementing the Paid Parental Leave Act issued in 2020 made some changes to the basic FMLA entitlement.  The session will cover these changes, as well as leave in COVID-related situations. Earn 1.25 CLE credits.


Session 6
3:00 – 4:15 pm ET

 

Federal Employment Law Update: Significant Cases and Developments
Presented by Ann Boehm, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

 

Course description: The MSPB is back and delivering decisions, the FLRA and EEOC continue to issue important decisions, the Federal Circuit has been hopping, and OPM regularly updates its guidance. A District Court in Texas recently put a hold on major Federal workplace mandates, and a Federal Appeals court has recently struck down FLRA policy decisions. It’s a lot to keep up with. That’s why you need to join FELTG for this fast-paced review of the most surprising, significant, and groundbreaking developments in Federal employment law. Earn 1.25 CLE credits.

 


Thursday, April 28, 2022

Post-COVID EEO Challenges

 

Session 7
10:30 – 11:45 am ET

 

The Widening Net of Reprisal Discrimination
Presented by Deborah Hopkins, Attorney at Law, FELTG President

 

Course description: Reprisal is asserted in almost half of all EEO complaints, and it’s the most common discrimination finding in Federal sector cases. With increasing political and societal rifts creating workplace conflicts, ongoing questions about employee vaccination and exemption status, and the soon-to-be imminent return of many Federal employees to the physical workplace, EEO challenges such as reprisal are expected to grow even more. Attendees will learn the various forms of EEO reprisal and receive important guidance on how to limit it from happening at your agency. Earn 1.25 CLE credits.   1.25


Session 8
1:00 – 2:15 pm ET

 

Telework as a Reasonable Accommodation When Employees Return to the Workplace
Presented by Ricky Rowe, Former National EEO Manager/Veterans Administration

 

Course description: By most accounts, telework was an enormous success for Federal agencies over the past two years. As you start the process of returning most employees back to the physical workplace, it’s likely that you’re going to receive a sudden increase in requests for telework, likely within the framework of reasonable accommodation. OPM guidance last summer anticipated as much. Attend this session to best prepare yourself for this onslaught of requests and give you and your staff a proper guide on how to determine whether telework is an effective reasonable accommodation, and what alternative accommodations might be available as well. 1.25

 


Session 9
3:00 – 4:15 pm ET

 

When Medical Issues Cause Performance and Misconduct Problems
Presented by Deborah Hopkins, Attorney at Law, FELTG President

 

Course description: Few situations draw as much angst among supervisors as when they have an employee with a physical or mental impairment who is struggling to do the job and/or failing to meet conduct standards. With the rise in mental health diagnoses, substance abuse disorders and the physical challenges that come with an aging workforce, Federal supervisors can expect more of these gut-wrenching situations. If the employee already has a reasonable accommodation, can you put him on a PIP or must you offer a new reasonable accommodation first? Should disability be a mitigating factor in discipline? How do you process removals for medical inability to perform? Attendees will learn the answers to these questions and much more.Earn 1.25 CLE credits. 1.25

 


Friday April 29, 2022

Labor Relations Spotlight

 

Session 10
10:30 – 11:45 am ET

 

Representation Decisions Under FLRA
Presented by Joseph Schimansky, Former Executive Director/FSIP, FELTG Instructor

 

Course description: The FLRA, by a 2-1 margin, recently rejected requests to throw out its 2020 decision that stripped immigration judges of their collective bargaining rights. This rejection came just a month after the Biden Administration reversed a Trump-era policy and officially recognized the union. In this session, Mr. Schimansky will examine Representation decisions under the current FLRA and what they mean for agencies and unions in the short and long term. Earn 1.25 CLE credits.


Session 11
1:00 – 2:15 pm ET

 

What I Learned as a Chief Management Negotiator
Marcus Hill, Principal/Hill Management Consultancy, FELTG Instructor

 

Course description: Have you been appointed chief management negotiator charged with representing the agency during collective bargaining with the union? Were you a little apprehensive or challenged how to start and ultimate accomplish this critical assignment? Whether you are a seasoned labor relations professional or a manager possessing little to no collective bargaining experience, this session is for you. During his distinguished Federal career, Mr. Hill served as Chief Management Negotiator on several occasions, achieving effective collective bargaining agreements for industrial and professional environments. Mr. Hill will share experiences, and successful strategies that will result in win-win, labor-management agreements.

 


Price

  • Early Bird Tuition (register by April 11):
    • One Session = $150
    • One Day (Three Sessions) = $395
    • Labor Relations Day = $275
    • April 26-28 All Access  = $1175
    • April 26-29 All Access with Labor Relations = $1450
  • Standard Tuition (register April 12-29)
    • One Session = $175
    • One Day (Three Sessions) = $495
    • Labor Relations Day = $325
    • April 26-28 All Access = $1475
    • April 26-29 All Access with Labor Relations = $1795
  • Rates per registrant and may not be used for groups under any circumstances. No split registrations.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast its Virtual Training Institute events. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • How do I claim CLE or EEO refresher credits?
    • This program has been submitted (and we anticipate this program will be approved) for Virginia CLE credits. Members of other state bars must submit for CLE credit on their own, and may use the materials provided by FELTG in submissions. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended, and will designate how many EEO refresher hours were earned.
  • Can I get HRCI credits for attending this class?
    • Each session is approved for 1.25 hours of HRCI general recertification credit. The HRCI course numbers will be available upon the conclusion of the training.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals for the full event. Group discounts are available through April 11.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

 

May
3
Tue
Virtual Training Event – Conducting Effective Harassment Investigations
May 3 – May 5 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Event Description

Investigating harassment in your Federal agency can be an intimidating assignment, one that is rife with innuendo, conflicting accounts, and raw emotions. Ensuring that your investigation is legally compliant and protects employees, while helping the agency minimize liability, is a taxing task. It’s even more challenging during the COVID-19 pandemic when most investigations must be done virtually.

Together, these three instructor-led live training sessions will provide a solid basis for a successful and effective approach to conducting legally-sufficient harassment investigations that stand up upon third-party review. Peruse MSPB and EEOC cases and you’ll find that poorly conducted investigations are far more common than they should be, and the cost of these investigations to agencies are bigger than you’d expect.

Understand the differences between EEO and non-EEO harassment. Learn the best techniques to conduct an investigation – whether onsite or virtually. Write a report that covers all the crucial information. And much more.

This open enrollment FELTG Virtual Training Institute program Conducting Effective Harassment Investigations offers opportunities to ask questions of FELTG’s experienced instructors, and get answers in real time. Plus, this program fulfills the requirements for 8-hour annual EEO investigator refresher training.

You can register for any of the sessions individually, or you can register for all three. This program runs from 12:30 – 4:00 eastern each day, with a 30-minute break from 2:00 – 2:30 eastern.

Download Individual Registration Form



Tuesday, May 3

Session 1: Investigating Harassment: Misconduct Principles

12:30 pm – 4:00 pm eastern (break from 2:00 – 2:30)
Presented by Deborah J. Hopkins, Attorney at Law, FELTG President

Course Description: An effective harassment investigation begins with a solid foundation of misconduct law in the federal workplace. Attorney and FELTG President Deborah J. Hopkins will explain the principles that underpin a successful investigation of federal employee misconduct, whether it’s on-duty or off-duty. Attendees will learn the five elements of discipline and understand how they relate to the misconduct investigation process. Plus, they’ll learn about evidence standards and burdens of proof in misconduct cases, how Douglas factors play in to an investigation, the importance of nexus, what to do when a witness won’t cooperate, and much more.

Learning Objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Identify the relationship between the foundations of federal accountability and misconduct investigations.
  • Identify and collect relevant penalty evidence during the investigation.
  • Recognize the mistakes that derail effective misconduct and harassment investigations.

Wednesday, May 4

Session 2: Understanding Harassment and Planning the Investigation

12:30 pm – 4:00 pm eastern (break from 2:00 – 2:30)
Presented by Katherine Atkinson, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

Course description: What is the scope of the investigation? Who should you interview? What documents are you going to need? Preparing your investigative plan is a critical step in developing a legally sufficient investigation. Attorney Katherine Atkinson will explain the proper role of the investigator and how you can avoid the pitfalls of an insufficient investigation with the proper preparation and knowledge. Plus, she’ll answer important questions about representation: Does the witness have the right to a representative? Does the union have a right to attend the interview – even if the witness doesn’t want the union there? What rights does agency management have in the process?

Learning Objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Discern the difference between EEO and non-EEO harassment, and the impact that has on the investigations’ legal sufficiency.
  • Identify witness rights and management rights.
  • Recognize the three basic characteristics of evidence in a harassment investigation.

Thursday, May 5

Session 3: Conducting the Investigation and Writing the Report

12:30 pm – 4:00 pm eastern (break from 2:00 – 2:30)
Presented by Katherine Atkinson, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

Course description: Attorney Katherine Atkinson will share legal principles and proven guidance to navigate this most critical and challenging part of harassment investigations: conducting the interviews and gathering relevant evidence. Attendees will leave the session with techniques for questioning, tools for reading body language, suggestions on how to handle difficult personality types, and tips for writing the fact-finding report (FFR) and report of investigation (ROI). Ms. Atkinson will also share how technology is changing the investigation process, including a very timely discussion of conducting virtual interviews.

Learning Objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Identify the similarities and differences in conducting onsite and virtual interviews.
  • Apply logic and judgment to evaluate conflicting statements.
  • Write a fulsome report on the findings from the harassment investigation.


Price

  • Early Bird Tuition (register by April 18): One Session = $340  |  Two Sessions = $650  |  Full Event = $900
  • Standard Tuition (register April 19-May 5): One Session = $390  |  Two Sessions = $695  |  Full Event = $950
  • Rates per registrant. No split registrations permitted.
  • Want to register a group? Group discounts are available through April 18. Contact FELTG.
  • REGISTER NOW.

 

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more attendees for the full event. Group discounts are available through April 18.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Jun
9
Thu
Virtual Training Event – Promoting Diversity, Enforcing Protections for LGBTQ Employees
Jun 9 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Download Individual Registration Form

First it was the Supreme Court ruling two years ago. And then President Biden’s first-day-in-office Executive Order made it even more clear: You are expected to enforce workplace discrimination protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity, as well as promote diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) with agency employees,  customers and grantees.

This two-hour virtual training, led by Attorney at Law and FELTG President Deborah Hopkins, will provide a detailed overview of workplace discrimination laws, and dig into guidance and best practices on topics including gender stereotyping as sex discrimination, transgender protections, and sexual orientation – an important part of this administration’s focus on providing equity to traditionally underserved communities.

Deborah Hopkins will also explain how to addresses unconscious biases and microaggressions in the workplace, actions which, if left unchecked, can lead to discrimination or a hostile work environment for individuals in the LGTBQ community.

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Comply with the relevant Biden Executive Orders.
  • Ensure legal protections for transgender employees.
  • Identify acts of microaggression against LGBTQ employees, as well as those influenced by implicit bias.
  • Recognize and define harassment.
  • Respond appropriately and effectively when you see a microaggression in the workplace.

This session will be held from 1:00 – 3:00pm ET.

This program meets the President’s mandate to provide training on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the Federal workplace.

Instructor

Deborah J. Hopkins

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $295 (register by May 27)
  • Standard Tuition: $345 (register May 28-June 9)
  • Rates per registrant.
  • Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available until May 27. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device. You may also attend the training event as an audio training, by dialing in over the phone and following along with the materials independently.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • What if I want to attend a session but have a schedule conflict?
    • FELTG also plans to offer this live event periodically, so check our calendar for upcoming dates.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals. Group discounts are available until May 27.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Jun
21
Tue
Virtual Training Event – EEO Counselor and Investigator Refresher Training 2022
Jun 21 – Jun 22 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Course Description

Are you looking for a convenient and engaging way to pick up your mandatory annual refresher training? Are you looking for useful, timely, and up-to-date guidance delivered in an engaging format?

Each day of FELTG’s two-day virtual training event provides an opportunity for you to pick up your mandatory annual refresher training. Attend both days and earn all eight hours, while receiving instruction on important EEO topics, such as: EEO timelines, best practices for interviewing complainants and witnesses, trends in reasonable accommodation, the very latest on sexual orientation and gender discrimination, what happens when disabilities and FMLA overlap, the latest on Post-COVID EEO challenges, and more.

Attendees will also receive a certificate of attendance verifying they’ve met the annual training requirement. We hope to see you there.

This program meets the President’s mandate to provide training on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the Federal workplace.

Download Individual Registration Form

Tuesday, June 21, 12:00-4:00 pm eastern

Ricky Rowe

FELTG Instructor Ricky Rowe, former National EEO Manager for the Department of Veterans Affairs, kicks things off with an in-depth presentation on the foundational issues that EEO professionals need to know – everything from theories of discrimination to the complaints procedure process. Mr. Rowe will share guidance to help you sharpen your practical skills, especially when it comes to interviewing witnesses. Attendees will learn various methods of communication, the difference between interviews and interrogation, types of questions, and techniques

EEO Refreshers Hours: 4

Learning takeaways

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Avoid the common mistakes made in the counseling process.
  • Identify the appropriate bases for dismissing a complaint.
  • Prepare and conduct effective witness interviews.

Wednesday, June 22,12:00-4:00 pm eastern

Ann Boehm

In recent years, the Supreme Court and the EEOC have issued dozens of significant decisions that impact how you approach your job. Meanwhile, agencies are seeing new examples of hostile work environment and national origin and religious discrimination. This session will cover those topics, as well as the changing nature of reprisal discrimination, protections for LGBTQ employees, and the increase in reasonable accommodation requests (both disability-related and religious). Many of these trends are directly related to the pandemic.  Attorney at Law Ann Boehm will look at the latest trends in EEO and you’ll leave the session with the confidence to successfully handle them all.

EEO Refreshers Hours: 4

Learning takeaways

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Address challenging reasonable accommodations, such as requests for permanent telework and new supervisor.
  • Explain the 2021 Executive Orders on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accommodation.
  • Recognize incidents of hostile work environment and reprisal.

 

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $370 per session, $700 for both sessions (register by June 6).
  • Standard Tuition: $400 per session, $730 for both sessions (register June 7-22).
  • Rates per registrant. No split registrations permitted.
  • Want to register a group? Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom for its Virtual Training Institute events. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • What if I want to attend a session but have a schedule conflict?
    • FELTG plans to offer this live event periodically, so check our calendar for upcoming dates.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • If an agency wishes to register 10 or more attendees for the full event, a group discount will be applied if all registrations are received and paid for together. Group discount deadline is June 6.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Jun
28
Tue
Virtual Training Event – Managing Ongoing COVID-related EEO Challenges in the Federal Workplace
Jun 28 @ 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm

Download Individual Registration Form

President Biden’s Executive Order requiring all Federal employees to be vaccinated with no option for regular coronavirus testing to opt out of the mandate, will likely be back in effect within days. What does this mean for employees who refuse to get vaccinated? Are there any religious exemptions that would allow employees to continue to work without vaccination? What about employees who cannot get vaccinated due to a disability – can agencies accommodate them?

Attorney Katherine Atkinson will not only share with you the latest guidance from the president’s EO, the EEOC and the CDC, but she will also explain how applying the basic EEO framework can answer the aforementioned and other puzzling EEO questions you may suddenly face. Because Ms. Atkinson will use a legal analysis to address these challenges, the answers and guidance you receive during this virtual training will be useful long after the coronavirus is gone.

Beyond the vaccination mandate, Ms. Atkinson will also help you answer the following questions and more:

  • How should agencies prioritize all the exemption requests that were on hold during the several months the EO was enjoined?
  • Is COVID-related harassment and reprisal illegal under the EEO statutes?
  • What documentation should agencies maintain to defend agains the complaints that will inevitably be filed?

Plus, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions about the unique problems you’re facing during these unprecedented times.

 

Learning takeaways

Attendees will learn how to determine:

  • Whether an unvaccinated employee creates an undue hardship to an agency’s operations in the religious accommodation context
  • How the undue hardship determination is different for an employee who requested accommodation due to a disability
  • How to spot pandemic-related retaliation that constitutes a legal violation

This program runs from 1:00 – 4:30 eastern, with a 30-minute break midway.

This program meets the President’s mandate to provide training on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the Federal workplace.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition (register by June 13): $355
  • Standard Tuition (register June 14-28 or later): $395
  • Rates per registrant.
  • Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through June 13. Contact FELTG.

 

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals. Group discounts are available through June 13. 

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Jul
13
Wed
Virtual Training Event – Honoring Diversity: Eliminating Microaggressions and Bias in the Federal Workplace
Jul 13 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Download Individual Registration Form

If you thought President Biden’s Executive Orders to advance racial equity throughout the Federal government and strengthen discrimination protections were just feel-good statements, think again.

You should have already completed your DEIA strategic plan. You’ll now need to file annual DEIA reports to the White House. Those reports should reveal the depth and breadth of your efforts to advance diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility throughout your agency.

This issue is NOT going away.  Employees, regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity or sexual orientation, will not feel respected and empowered unless the agency addresses unconscious bias and microaggressions in the workplace.

What is a microaggression? During this two-hour virtual training, FELTG Instructor Katherine Atkinson, attorney at law, will explain what microaggressions look like it in their various forms — microinsults, microassaults, and microinvalidations.

Whether intentional or not, microaggressions can be very hurtful to the employees who experience them, and such behaviors indicating implicit bias can lead to discrimination. They are warning signs of a potential hostile workplace. And they put a serious dent in employee morale and productivity.

Ms. Atkinson will also share an implicit bias test, explain its impact, and provide examples. She’ll provide a quick review of EEO law so you can determine when bias or microaggression leads to the level of discrimination.

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Identify acts of microaggression and acts influenced by implicit bias.
  • Recognize and define harassment.
  • Respond appropriately and effectively when you see a microaggression in the workplace.

This program meets the President’s mandate to provide training on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the Federal workplace.

Class will be held from 1:00-3:00 PM eastern.

Instructor

Katherine Atkinson

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $295 (register by July 5)
  • Standard Tuition: $325 (register July 6-13)
  • Rates per registrant.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device. You may also attend the training event as an audio training, by dialing in over the phone and following along with the materials independently.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals. Group discounts are available until July 5.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Jul
19
Tue
Virtual Training Event – Handling Threats of Violence in the Federal Workplace
Jul 19 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Download Individual Registration Form

Instructor

Shana Palmieri

Description

Violence is on the upswing across the country, and mass shootings have taken place at concerts, in shopping centers, in subways — and in workplaces. This violence and other stressors, such as inflation and lingering partisan bitterness about pandemic-related issues, have many people on edge at the same time that agencies are bringing employees back to the physical workplace, after over two years of isolation for many.

Join FELTG Instructor Shana Palmieri, LCSW, as she provides critical information about managing these workplace challenges, including vital guidance on responding to possible threats to self or to others, and practical, effective techniques to de-escalate potentially dangerous situations at Federal agencies.

Attendees will leave with answers to the following questions:

  • What warning signs do employees exhibit when they are considering violence?
  • What steps should you take if an employee threatens suicide or violence?
  • What are the agency’s options when the threat comes from someone outside the workplace such as a spouse, family member, or extremist?

Crisis management in the Federal workplace is a crucial area to understand — it truly is a matter of life and death. This session, held from 1:00-3:00 pm eastern, is too important to miss.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $295 (register by July 5)
  • Standard Tuition: $325 (register July 6 or later)
  • Rates per registrant.
  • Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through July 5. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device. You may also attend the training event as an audio training, by dialing in over the phone and following along with the materials independently.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • What if I want to attend a session but have a schedule conflict?
    • FELTG plans to offer this live event periodically, so check our calendar for upcoming dates.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals. Group discounts are available through July 5.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Jul
21
Thu
Webinar – Reasonable Accommodation Framework: Disability Accommodation Overview and Analysis
Jul 21 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructor

Deborah Hopkins

Course Description

 1

FELTG kicks off its five-part webinar series Reasonable Accommodation in the Federal Workplace with an overview of the the current state of disability law and how the ADA, ADAAA, and Rehabilitation Act apply to federal employees with disabilities. Before you can appropriately manage the complex reasonable accommodation requests you’re likely to receive in the next few months, you need a thorough understanding of the basics. Attendees will learn about:

  • Making disability determinations
  • What “qualified individual” actually means
  • Reasonable accommodation requests
  • The interactive process
  • Denials of reasonable accommodation
  • Reassignment and Medical Inability to Perform removals

Whether you’re an attorney, disability program manager, EEO or HR Specialist or a supervisor, you’ll want to be sure to attend this session.

This program meets the President’s mandate to provide training on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the Federal workplace.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $250 per site, per session (payment made by July 11).
  • Standard Tuition: $280 per site, per session (payment made July 12 or later).
  • Register for all five webinars in the series by July 11 and pay only $1195!

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $50 per teleworker, per webinar, on a space-available basis.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future course.

Jul
28
Thu
Webinar – The Importance of the Interactive Process 
Jul 28 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructor

Bob Woods

Course Description

 1

The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) requires employers to reasonably accommodate qualified employees who have disabilities, as long as doing so doesn’t cause an undue hardship. Reasonable accommodations should be determined by the employee and the agency, through what those of us in the business call “the interactive process.”

This 60-minute webinar, the second in FELTG’s Reasonable Accommodation in the Federal Workplace series, will tackle what agencies need to know when they work with employees on reasonable accommodation, including practical applications and best practices on topics including:

  • Determining the essential functions of the job
  • Accommodations of choice: who gets to select the accommodation
  • Holding successful discussions with the employee

Whether you’re an attorney, disability program manager, EEO or HR Specialist or a supervisor, you’ll want to be sure to attend this session.

This program meets the President’s mandate to provide training on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the Federal workplace.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $250 per site, per session (payment made by July 11).
  • Standard Tuition: $280 per site, per session (payment made July 12 or later).
  • Register for all five webinars in the series by July 11 and pay only $1195!

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $50 per teleworker, per webinar, on a space-available basis.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Aug
2
Tue
Webinar – Promoting Inclusion: Pronoun Use and Gender Identity in the Workplace
Aug 2 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructor

Deborah Hopkins

Program Description

Could use of pronouns or names that are inconsistent with an individual’s gender identity be considered discrimination or harassment?

Yes.

In certain circumstances.

Gender identity and related topics are so important that in June 2022 the EEOC introduced a nonbinary gender marker for people to use during the intake process, reasoning that “presenting only ‘male’ and ‘female’ options does not reflect the full range of gender identities.

In this 60-minute webinar, FELTG President Deborah Hopkins will explain how and why proper pronoun use, name use, and recognition of employee gender identity in the workplace is more than just a liability issue for your agency. From the statutory bases through precedent-setting decisions on sexual orientation and gender identity, to President Biden’s Executive order on Preventing and Combating Discrimination on the Basis of Gender Identity or Sexual Orientation, this issue is prevalent in every workplace in America.

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Define key terms and concepts related to gender identity, including gender identity, confirmation, sex/gender stereotyping and more.
  • Recognize microaggressions and other harassment related to gender identity.
  • Identify situations when misuse of an employee’s pronoun would constitute sex-based discrimination and/or harassment.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $285 per site (payment required by July 18)
  • Standard Tuition: $315 per site (payments made July 19 or later)

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $50 per teleworker, on a space-available basis.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Aug
3
Wed
Virtual Training Event – Hearing Advocacy: Presenting Cases Before the MSPB and EEOC
Aug 3 – Aug 4 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Course Description

Whether you’re representing your agency before the Merit Systems Protection Board or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, there is one ultimate goal: Win the case. There is no other class that will prepare you better for these kinds of hearings. FELTG Instructor Katherine Atkinson is an experienced litigator. She will walk you through each step of the process from the acknowledgement order through your closing statement, to ensure that you meet that ultimate goal. 

On the first day, Ms. Atkinson will share strategies for developing a theory of the case, and offer guidance for the process including discovery, depositions, and motions practice. The second day will focus on developing the record, plus offer tips on litigation techniques to improve your skills – and make your position stand out. Ms. Atkinson will deliver the content in practical, useful modules that provide the student with the tools needed to effectively practice employment law and represent the client when it matters most.

This two-day special event will be presented live, and you’ll have time to ask questions and get answers in real time.

This program runs from 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm eastern each day, with a 30-minute break midway.

Download Individual Registration Form

Instructor

Katherine Atkinson

Who Should Attend

Attorneys; Labor and Employee Relations Specialists; Union Representatives.

Agenda

Wednesday, August 3

Developing a Theory: Strategies for developing a theory of the case; requesting and responding to written discovery requests (Interrogatories, Requests for Documents and Requests for Admissions); taking and defending depositions.

Thursday, August 4

Developing the Record: Pre-hearing submissions; opening statements; direct examination; cross examination; closing statements.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $355 per session, $690 for both sessions (register by July 15).
  • Standard Tuition: $395 per session, $750 for both sessions (register July 16 – August 4).
  • Rates per registrant. No split registrations permitted.
  • Want to register a group? Contact FELTG.

 

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom for its Virtual Training Institute events. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • If an agency wishes to register 10 or more attendees for the full event, a group discount will be applied if all registrations are received and paid for together. Group discount deadline is July 15.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Aug
4
Thu
Webinar – Telework as a Reasonable Accommodation
Aug 4 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructor

Deborah Hopkins

Course Description

 1

Before the pandemic, telework was one of the the most commonly requested accommodations for individuals with physical and mental disabilities.

After the success of two years of pandemic-induced remote work, you better believe that you’ll be getting even more reasonable accommodation requests for telework as employees are directed to return to the physical workplace. Are you ready to do the appropriate interactive discussion and analysis?

Join FELTG President and Attorney at Law Deborah Hopkins for a discussion on this timely topic, during the third event in our Reasonable Accommodation in the Federal Workplace webinar series. Ms Hopkins will detail the required three-step process for agencies to be compliant when dealing with reasonable accommodation requests.

From there, she’ll discuss:

  • What to do if telework would be an effective accommodation – but something else would work too
  • Who gets to choose the accommodation
  • What the EEOC says about accommodating an employee’s commute
  • When an agency can legally deny telework as an accommodation

Often times the best way to learn is by looking at real-life case studies, so the session will include a discussion on recent federal cases – won and lost – involving telework requests as reasonable accommodation. Because of the cost incurred when handling a reasonable accommodation complaint, your agency EEO staff, reasonable accommodation coordinators, disability coordinators, HR staff and supervisors truly cannot afford to miss this event.

This program meets the President’s mandate to provide training on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the Federal workplace.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $250 per site, per session (payment made by July 11).
  • Standard Tuition: $280 per site, per session (payment made July 12 or later).
  • Register for all five webinars in the series by July 11 and pay only $1195!

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $50 per teleworker, per webinar, on a space-available basis.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Aug
10
Wed
Virtual Training Event – Addressing Pregnancy Discrimination in the Federal Workplace
Aug 10 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Download Individual Registration Form

Course Description

You may think pregnancy discrimination is rare. And you’d be wrong. The number of pregnancy discrimination claims filed with the EEOC has increased steadily over the last two decades, and is currently “hovering near an all-time high.”

Meanwhile, the increase in pregnancy discrimination has disproportionately impacted women of color.

The actions that lead to claims are varied. They including employees getting passed over for promotions, raises, physically demanding jobs, or risky assignments, being terminated; not being hired — all because the employee is pregnant.

Join Ann Boehm for this two-hour virtual training, where she will explain the purpose and coverage of the Pregnancy Discrimination Act, discuss the cross-roads between FMLA and PPL, caregiver discrimination, and accommodation issues.

Download Individual Registration Form

Instructor

Ann Boehm

Who Should Attend

Federal supervisors and managers; attorneys; Labor and Employee Relations Specialists; EEO specialists; union representatives.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $295 per session (register by July 27).
  • Standard Tuition: $345 per session (register July 28-August 10).
  • Rates per registrant. No split registrations permitted.
  • Want to register a group? Contact FELTG.  Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available until July 27. 

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom for its Virtual Training Institute events. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • What if I want to attend a session but have a schedule conflict?
    • FELTG also plans to offer this live event periodically, so check our calendar for upcoming dates.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • If an agency wishes to register 10 or more attendees for the full event, a group discount will be applied if all registrations are received and paid for together. Group discount deadline is July 27.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

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