Mandatory training is defined as a type of educational or instructional program that individuals are required to complete as part of their role or membership in an organization. This training is critical for effective job performance and institutional safety. Mandatory training is limited to training that complies with Board of Regents (BOR), Georgia Tech, state and federal policies, regulations and laws.
Per University System of Georgia (USG) policy, all mandatory training required by the Institution must be approved by Institution's Chief Human Resources Officer ("CHRO") and the Institution's President. No Institution training may include affirmations, ideological tests, or oaths (including diversity statements). Additionally individual units and departments are not permitted to mandate training for departmental employees beyond that approved by the Institution's president and CHRO as outlined below.
Mandatory employee training should be limited to that which complies with Board of Regents (BOR), state, and federal policies, regulations, and laws. Examples of appropriate topics for training include:
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
- Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.
- Functional training required for the performance of an individual job.
- Best practices related to an employee's engagement and communication.
- Any requirements encompassed with this HRAP on General Criteria for Employment.
Types of Training at Georgia Tech
Training required as a condition of an individual’s employment with the USG or Institute. Failure to complete mandatory training may result in disciplinary action consistent with BOR Policy.
USG Mandated Trainings: Human Resources | Mandatory Trainings | University System of Georgia
- Right to Know Training
- USG Cyber Awareness Training
- USG Ethics Training & Certification
Criteria for Mandatory Training:
- Training must be submitted through the Georgia Tech Mandatory Approval Process
- Approved by the CHRO and President
- Consistent with BOR Policy
- Required by an outside governing body (e.g., DOJ, DOD)
- Documented in the Institute’s LMS
- Records archived for 5 years
- Necessary to fulfill job duties and mitigate institutional risk
Training is not required but strongly recommended to improve and enhance the employee’s performance and job knowledge.
Criteria for Strongly Recommended Trainings
- Ensure that the training is in alignment with the Institute Strategic Goals and Values.
- Clearly state in the communication to the employee that the training is “Strongly Recommended” but not required or mandatory.
- Employees may opt in or opt out of participating in the training. However, failure to complete may negatively impact the employee’s performance ratings.
Examples: New Employee Experience; Training associated with Performance Improvement Plans (PIP)
Training is not required. Employees are not obligated to attend.
Criteria for Optional Trainings
- Offerings that enhance or support the employee’s job duties and responsibilities.
- Employees can choose whether to complete the training.
Mandatory Training Approval Process Overview
