Professional Development Advisors: The Link between Line Organizations, Management and the Training Organization

Abstract

Abstract One of the traditional problems associated with technical training is the disconnect between the training organization in charge of arranging and offering the training, and the line organizations whose engineers are receiving the training. This often results in somewhat random and unfocused training that is not always aligned with the current and future business needs of the company. Saudi Aramco has introduced the concept of the Professional Development Advisor (PDA), who serves as the intermediary between the line organization, management and the training organization. This paper discusses the roles and responsibilities of the PDA, as well as the organizational and administrative structure established to facilitate effective execution of the numerous PDA duties. Professional Development Advisors represent the line organizations within the training organization. They are technical experts responsible for managing the curriculum for their respective disciplines. PDAs provide technical oversight of their curriculum, ensuring that it remains current and responsive to the needs of the company. Interacting extensively with their line organization as well as the other departments in the training organization, they ensure effective integration of the various training and development components, including formal training, work assignments and e-learning. The ultimate goal of PDAs is to ensure that the structure and content of technical development programs effectively and efficiently produce competent engineers and geoscientists who can contribute to their technical organizations.