IAP2 USA Online Courses

Global Certificate in P2 Courses

IAP2 Certificate in Public Participation – We are very excited to be launching the next evolution of training that builds on our foundational best practices. Our flagship Foundations training program has been updated and now consists of three core courses. Visit our training calendar to register for updated course offerings.

IAP2 USA's Certificate in Public Participation (P2) consists of 3 core courses - Fundamentals of Public Participation, Designing Public Participation, and Applying Methods. Based on IAP2's internationally recognized Global Learning Pathway, this professional development certificate program builds on the foundations of public participation training and best practices from around the globe to provide participants with approximately 30 hours of effective training in public participation and engagement.

Fundamentals of Public Participation

(Prerequisite to other courses)

Who: For all practitioners

This course:

  • Explores IAP2’s best practices and underlying frameworks to create meaningful participation and reflect on one’s own existing practice
  • Centers diversity, equity and inclusion in the practice of engagement
  • Allows participant’s to apply this knowledge to their own public participation practice

Designing Public Participation

Who: For practitioners who are leading the planning and implementation of public participation processes

This course:

  • Helps practitioners design an engagement process and plan for a real-world scenario

Applying Methods

Who: For practitioners who are part of a team implementing a public participation process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

This course:

  • Provides opportunities to practice and evaluate methods
  • Demonstrates ways to blend methods into hybrid techniques
  • Shares techniques to craft questions to draw out meaningful input
Learn More!

As a key leader in the public participation sector IAP2 USA provides skills-based learning to people and organizations on what they need to know and do, so that they can successfully develop, deliver, and lead authentic engagement processes.

"I wanted to tell you that I’m getting great feedback from everyone and it’s truly been a life changing experience for some, which I knew it would be. I can’t thank you enough for your help this past week and I look forward to two more trainings for the rest of my Public Outreach & Engagement Peer Group. We have about 45 people all being trained with IAP2. Just think what a difference that will make in our Agency moving forward!"

Deanna J. Desedas, Public Outreach & Engagement Manager
San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency

All Upcoming Courses

  • County of San Diego, Global Certificate in P2 Cohort #4, 2025

    • October 30, 2025
    • December 18, 2025
    • 5 sessions
    • City of San Diego
    Register

    County of San Diego Global Certificate in Public Participation

    **This training is for the COUNTY of San Diego employees ONLY**

    IAP2 USA Licensed Trainer: Cathy Smith 

    2025 Cohort #4, training dates (in-person): 

    • October 30: Fundamentals
    • Nov 7: Designing/leading
    • Nov 14: Designing/leading
    • Dec 11: Methods
    • Dec 18: Methods

    Training and Course Details: 

    IAP2 Certificate Program

    IAP2 USA's Certificate in Public Participation (P2) consists of 3 core courses - Fundamentals of Public Participation, Designing Public Participation, and Applying Methods. Based on IAP2's internationally recognized Global Learning Pathway, this professional development certificate program builds on the foundations of public participation training and best practices from around the globe to provide participants with over 30 hours of effective training in public participation and engagement.

    #1 Fundamentals of Public Participation

    Prerequisite for Designing Public Participation and Applying Methods

    The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

    The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

    Course objectives

    By the end of this course participants will be able to:

    • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
    • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
    • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice
    • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
    • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
    • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
    • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
    • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

    #2 Designing & Leading Public Participation

    Designing Public Participation (P2) is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to the design and plan phases of the practice framework, providing them with the opportunity to develop P2 plans. This includes scoping, community mapping, determining purpose and objectives and levels of influence, choosing appropriate methods and managing resources, while considering the needs of diverse audiences. The course is suitable for practitioners who are leading the planning and implementation of P2 processes.

    Course objectives:

    1. For a real-world scenario, design an engagement process and plan that includes:

    • Develop a clear scope of the work, problem or opportunity with identified negotiables and non-negotiables
    • Conduct detailed stakeholder analysis, community mapping and equity analysis
    • Identify appropriate roles and levels of influence for key participants
    • Establish clear engagement purpose and objectives and success criteria/measures to suit scenario
    • Identify relevant profiles of engagement
    • Conduct a detailed risk/opportunities assessment
    • Identify key roles for senior leaders and decision makers

    2. Explore principles and approaches for equity, diversity and inclusion, and apply them to stakeholder analysis

    3. Embed digital strategies, platforms, tools and methods as part of the plan and process

    4. Develop an evaluation framework to suit the scenario

    5. Identify key roles and resources needed to implement the P2/engagement plan

    6. Develop and apply a suitable presentation to senior leaders that will secure commitment and resources for the P2/engagement plan

    7. Identify the many different contexts of engagement, including the elements present in more complex engagement scenarios

    #3 Applying Methods for Public Participation 

    Designing Public Participation is a prerequisite for this course

    Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods.

    This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

    The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

    Course objectives:

    1. Identify a range of methods that can be used for various engagement purposes and processes, and strategies to select the most appropriate method/s for an engagement project/process.

    2. Research, design and test a F2F and/or online method using a range of tools and resources.

    3. Apply the four steps of designing a method incorporating the eight key components of

    method design.

    4. Develop rational and experiential aims.

    5. Design an appropriate format.

    6. Design questions and process.

    7. Develop appropriate communications.

    8. Combine methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives and test for appropriate sequencing.

    9. Incorporate inclusion and diversity principles

    10. Identify data management needs, evaluation points and measures.

    11. Identify resources required.

    12. Explore a variety of both F2F and online methods/ techniques that are more structured and have nested methods within them (e.g., Deliberative

    Processes, Appreciative Inquiry and Open Space Technology).

    13. Analyze the specific requirements for online and digital methods, identify and select appropriate platforms and tools to meet needs and strategize to develop these methods for delivery.

    14. Identify principles for monitoring online activity.

    15. Test the design by running elements of the method and submitting to peer review using a checklist.

    16. Apply methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives, including using effective communication skills, and test for appropriate sequencing.

    17. Design key messages and communication tools that build trust and integrity, and meet the needs of diverse audiences.
    Show details

  • IAP2's Designing and Leading Public Participation - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

    • November 10, 2025
    • November 19, 2025
    • 4 sessions
    • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

    Designing and Leading Public Participation

    **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

    Designing & Leading Public Participation (P2) is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to the design and plan phases of the practice framework, providing them with the opportunity to develop P2 plans. This includes scoping, community mapping, determining purpose and objectives and levels of influence, choosing appropriate methods and managing resources, while considering the needs of diverse audiences. The course is suitable for practitioners who are leading the planning and implementation of P2 processes.

    Course objectives

    1. For a real-world scenario, design an engagement process and plan that includes:
      • Develop a clear scope of the work, problem or opportunity with identified negotiables and non-negotiable
      • Conduct detailed stakeholder analysis, community mapping and equity analysis
      • Identify appropriate roles and levels of influence for key participants
      • Establish clear engagement purpose and objectives and success criteria/measures to suit scenario
      • Identify relevant profiles of engagement
      • Conduct a detailed risk/opportunities assessment
      • Identify key roles for senior leaders and decision maker
    2. Explore principles and approaches for equity, diversity and inclusion, and apply them to stakeholder analysis
    3. Embed digital strategies, platforms, tools and methods as part of the plan and process
    4. Develop an evaluation framework to suit the scenario
    5. Identify key roles and resources needed to implement the P2/engagement plan
    6. Develop and apply a suitable presentation to senior leaders that will secure commitment and resources for the P2/engagement plan
    7. Identify the many different contexts of engagement, including the elements present in more complex engagement scenarios

    Professional Certification/Credits

    This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer.

    _______________________________________________________________________________________________

    This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE! 

    Click Here to Register on trainers website!

    ________________________________________________________________________________

    Cost:

    • Members $550
    • Regular/Non-Member $650

    Date/Time of Training:

    DATES: November 10, 12, 17 and 19, 2025

    • 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM MST 
    • One hour lunch break 
    • 1:00 PM to 3:00PM MST 

    ________________________________________________________________________________

    Trainer: Cassie Hemphill 

    Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in designing and leading public participation and engagement processes and projects. Her work has included environmental and natural resource management, healthcare delivery, education, and community-based human services. She has been creating and delivering remote and in-person training experiences for professionals and community members for more than 15 years.

    Cassie has been involved with IAP2 since 2003. She helped create IAP2 USA’s Professional Certification program, assisted with updates and development of IAP2’s course materials, and has served on the USA and Intermountain Chapter boards. She currently serves as an IAP2 Licensing Programme Mentor, preparing candidates from around the world to become IAP2 Licensed Trainers.

    Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).


    Show details

  • IAP2 Working with Conflict and High Emotion - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

    • November 13, 2025
    • November 21, 2025
    • 4 sessions
    • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

    IAP2's Working with Conflict and High Emotion

    **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation or IAP2's previous Foundations Training to take this course**


    The focus of this Level 3 course is on de-escalating and shifting conflict and high emotion to constructive participation, where forward momentum and resolution are possible.

    Participants will gain a deep understanding of the state of conflict, and work with practical, tangible approaches to deescalate and transform challenges. Over the course, we will cover tools, strategies and ways of working to resolve polarized and emotional challenges.



    COURSE OBJECTIVES:

    • Assess the state of conflict and emotion in the
    • P2/engagement process, and create productive and constructive approaches
    • Work with the stages of conflict escalation and apply he concepts of de-escalation
    • Apply a variety of strategies to transform the conflict in P2/engagement
    • Identify the impact of high emotion and apply a range of approaches to deescalate challenges
    • Identify how to reduce conflict in situations of misinformation and dueling facts
    • Apply the principles of storytelling to connect people to each other, increase understanding and reduce conflict
    • Learn from mistakes and understand the role of failure in P2/engagement processes
    • Identify and apply how to mo0del integrity and behaviors hat deescalate conflict
    • Apply the strategies and tools to your own project or situation

    WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE: Level 2 and 3 practitioners who are:

    • leading and managing P2/engagement processes with challenges, scope and scale looking for tools and strategies to apply to a polarized, charged P2/engagement environment
    • Practitioners with experience in P2/engagement processes where there is conflict and/or high emotion

    By the end of Working with Conflict and High Emotion, you will be ready to travel on a journey that improves mutual understanding, changes relationships and systems to meet human needs, contributes to building peace and creates lasting change.

    ________________________________________________________________________________


    This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

    Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

    ________________________________________________________________________________

    Cost:

    • Members $550
    • Regular/Non-Member $650

    Date/Time of Training:

    DATES: November 13, 14, 20,  and 21, 2025 (Must attend all four days) 

    • 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM MST 
    • One hour lunch break 
    • 1:00 PM to 3:00PM MST 

    ________________________________________________________________________________


    Trainer: Cassie Hemphill 

    Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in designing and leading public participation and engagement processes and projects. Her work has included environmental and natural resource management, healthcare delivery, education, and community-based human services. She has been creating and delivering remote and in-person training experiences for professionals and community members for more than 15 years. 

    Cassie has been involved with IAP2 since 2003. She helped create IAP2 USA’s Professional Certification program, assisted with updates and development of IAP2’s course materials, and has served on the USA and Intermountain Chapter boards. She currently serves as an IAP2 Licensing Programme Mentor, preparing candidates from around the world to become IAP2 Licensed Trainers.

    Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).


    Show details

  • Intermountain Chapter Training, In Person, Full Certificate Training

    • December 01, 2025
    • December 05, 2025
    • 5 sessions
    • Salt Lake City Fire Station #3 Training Room 2425 S 900 E Salt Lake City, UT 84106
    • 12
    Register

    Intermountain Chapter Training, In Person, Full Certificate Global Learning Pathway IAP2 Training

    Dates: December 1, 2025 through December 5, 2025 

    • Fundamentals: December 1 
    • Designing and Leading P2: December 2 and 3 
    • Applying Methods in P2: December 4 and 5 

    Time: 8:30am to 5:00pm daily 

    Location: Salt Lake City Fire Station #3

    Training Room

    2425 S 900 E

    Salt Lake City, UT 84106


    *8 hour training each day. 

      Professional Certification/Credits

       — Cancellation and Substitution Policy —

      Trainer: Justin Schneider 

      Justin Schneider has more than 20 years of experience working with communities in the United States and abroad, focusing on p2/engagement, community development, community-based research, and legal work. Justin began his connection with IAP2 in 2018 and now supports the Lonestar Chapter. Currently, Justin is based in Austin, Texas and manages Oak Grove Community Consulting. He also works for Austin Parks and Recreation Department as a community engagement consultant and supports training within the organization. If you work for the City of Austin, please reach out to Justin before registering.
      Show details

    • IAP2 Fundamentals in Public Participation - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

      • December 02, 2025
      • 10:00 AM
      • December 03, 2025
      • 3:00 PM
      • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

      Fundamentals of Public Participation

      The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

      The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

      Course objectives

      By the end of this course participants will be able to:

      • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
      • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
      • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
      • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
      • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
      • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
      • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
      • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

      Professional Certification/Credits

      _________________________________________________________________________

      This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

      Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

      ______________________________________________________________________________

      Cost:

      • Members $275
      • Regular/Non-Member $325

      Date/Time of Training:

      DATES: December 2 - 3,  2025

      • 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM MST 
      • One hour lunch break 
      • 1:00 PM to 3:00PM MST 

      _______________________________________________________________________________

      This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

      Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

      ______________________________________________________________________________


      Trainer: Cassie Hemphill 

      Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in designing and leading public participation and engagement processes and projects. Her work has included environmental and natural resource management, healthcare delivery, education, and community-based human services. She has been creating and delivering remote and in-person training experiences for professionals and community members for more than 15 years. 

      Cassie has been involved with IAP2 since 2003. She helped create IAP2 USA’s Professional Certification program, assisted with updates and development of IAP2’s course materials, and has served on the USA and Intermountain Chapter boards. She currently serves as an IAP2 Licensing Programme Mentor, preparing candidates from around the world to become IAP2 Licensed Trainers.

      Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).


      Show details

    • Designing & Leading Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

      • December 02, 2025
      • December 05, 2025
      • 4 sessions
      • Online with Kimberly Horndeski
      • 5
      Register

      Designing & Leading Public Participation

      Designing & Leading Public Participation (P2) is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to the design and plan phases of the practice framework, providing them with the opportunity to develop P2 plans. This includes scoping, community mapping, determining purpose and objectives and levels of influence, choosing appropriate methods and managing resources, while considering the needs of diverse audiences. The course is suitable for practitioners who are leading the planning and implementation of P2 processes.

      Course objectives:

      1. For a real-world scenario, design an engagement process and plan that includes:

      • Develop a clear scope of the work, problem or opportunity with identified negotiables and non-negotiables
      • Conduct detailed stakeholder analysis, community mapping and equity analysis
      • Identify appropriate roles and levels of influence for key participants
      • Establish clear engagement purpose and objectives and success criteria/measures to suit scenario
      • Identify relevant profiles of engagement
      • Conduct a detailed risk/opportunities assessment
      • Identify key roles for senior leaders and decision makers

      2. Explore principles and approaches for equity, diversity and inclusion, and apply them to stakeholder analysis

      3. Embed digital strategies, platforms, tools and methods as part of the plan and process

      4. Develop an evaluation framework to suit the scenario

      5. Identify key roles and resources needed to implement the P2/engagement plan

      6. Develop and apply a suitable presentation to senior leaders that will secure commitment and resources for the P2/engagement plan

      7. Identify the many different contexts of engagement, including the elements present in more complex engagement scenarios

        Professional Certification/Credits


         — Cancellation and Substitution Policy —

        Trainer: Kimberly Horndeski

        Kimberly is a certified mediator, facilitator, and the Executive Director for Community Consulting LLC. Her work focuses on integrating policy and science to engage stakeholders, develop strategic plans, promote collaboration, and transform conflict into successful strategies for the future. She has led multiple state and national working groups to overcome challenges and reach consensus. Her projects include bottom-up approaches, such as working with nonprofits to develop effective strategies to engage elected officials in adopting initiatives, and top-down approaches, such as assisting the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service throughout the nation to incorporate stakeholder values in the decision-making processes for federally-listed threatened and endangered species.
        Show details

      • IAP2's Facilitating Groups - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

        • December 09, 2025
        • 10:00 AM
        • December 10, 2025
        • 3:00 PM
        • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

        IAP2's Facilitating Groups

        **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation or IAP2's previous Foundations Training to take this course**

        Explore the facilitation framework to develop skills and confidence in developing your engagement facilitation approach.

        The aim of Facilitating Groups is to explore the framework and develop skills and confidence in facilitating P2 and engagement methods. The focus will be about enhancing practitioners’ ability to respond appropriately, generating confidence in and support for your facilitation approach.

        Course objectives

        • Examine the framework and purpose of facilitation in an engagement context
        • Build a repertoire of tools and processes
        • Practice some core skills
        • Troubleshoot specific challenges 
        • Explore the changes needed for facilitation of digital engagement processes

        ____________________________________________________________________________

        This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

        Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

        ______________________________________________________________________________

        Cost:

        • Members $275
        • Regular/Non-Member $325

        Date/Time of Training:

        DATES: December 9 - 10,  2025

        • 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM MST 
        • One hour lunch break 
        • 1:00 PM to 3:00PM MST 

        ____________________________________________________________________________

        This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

        Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

        _______________________________________________________________________________


        Trainer: Cassie Hemphill 

        Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in designing and leading public participation and engagement processes and projects. Her work has included environmental and natural resource management, healthcare delivery, education, and community-based human services. She has been creating and delivering remote and in-person training experiences for professionals and community members for more than 15 years. 

        Cassie has been involved with IAP2 since 2003. She helped create IAP2 USA’s Professional Certification program, assisted with updates and development of IAP2’s course materials, and has served on the USA and Intermountain Chapter boards. She currently serves as an IAP2 Licensing Programme Mentor, preparing candidates from around the world to become IAP2 Licensed Trainers.

        Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).


        Show details

      • Applying Methods for Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

        • December 09, 2025
        • December 12, 2025
        • 4 sessions
        • Online with Trainer Justin Schneider
        • 12
        Register

        IAP2's Applying Methods for Public Participation

        Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods. This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

        The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

        Course objectives:

        1. Identify a range of methods that can be used for various engagement purposes and processes, and strategies to select the most appropriate method/s for an engagement project/process.

        2. Research, design and test a F2F and/or online method using a range of tools and resources.

        3. Apply the four steps of designing a method incorporating the eight key components of method design.

        4. Develop rational and experiential aims.

        5. Design an appropriate format.

        6. Design questions and process.

        7. Develop appropriate communications.

        8. Combine methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives and test for appropriate sequencing.

        9. Incorporate inclusion and diversity principles

        10. Identify data management needs, evaluation points and measures.

        11. Identify resources required.

        12. Explore a variety of both F2F and online methods/ techniques that are more structured and have nested methods within them (e.g., Deliberative Processes, Appreciative Inquiry and Open Space Technology).

        13. Analyze the specific requirements for online and digital methods, identify and select appropriate platforms and tools to meet needs and strategize to develop these methods for delivery.

        14. Identify principles for monitoring online activity.

        15. Test the design by running elements of the method and submitting to peer review using a checklist.

        16. Apply methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives, including using effective communication skills, and test for appropriate sequencing.

        17. Design key messages and communication tools that build trust and integrity, and meet the needs of diverse audiences.

          Professional Certification/Credits

           — Cancellation and Substitution Policy —

          Trainer: Justin Schneider 

          Justin Schneider has more than 20 years of experience working with communities in the United States and abroad, focusing on p2/engagement, community development, community-based research, and legal work. Justin began his connection with IAP2 in 2018 and now supports the Lonestar Chapter. Currently, Justin is based in Austin, Texas and manages Oak Grove Community Consulting. He also works for Austin Parks and Recreation Department as a community engagement consultant and supports training within the organization. If you work for the City of Austin, please reach out to Justin before registering.

          Show details

        • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

          • December 16, 2025
          • 1:00 PM
          • December 17, 2025
          • 5:00 PM
          • Online with Trainer Craddock Stropes
          • 16
          Register

           Fundamentals of Public Participation

          The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

          The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

          Course objectives

          By the end of this course participants will be able to:

          • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
          • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
          • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
          • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
          • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
          • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
          • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
          • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

          Professional Certification/Credits

           — Cancellation and Substitution Policy —

          Trainer:

          Craddock Stropes (she/her) is a facilitator, trainer and coach with more than 25 years of experience in the local government and non-profit sectors. Her work centers on connecting people with ideas to create inclusive, strategic and tangible solutions that make everyday lives better. She is chair of the IAP2 USA Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee, a member of the American Public Works Association national DEI Committee and is active in the International Network of Asian Public Administrators. She has presented learning sessions on inclusion, public engagement and crisis communications for Connect, California Association for Public Information Officers, Public Relations Society of America, American Public Works Association and Transforming Local Government conferences. She is currently a senior management analyst for the City of Carlsbad.


          Show details

        • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

          • January 27, 2026
          • January 28, 2026
          • 2 sessions
          • Online with Craddock Stropes
          • 21
          Register

          Fundamentals of Public Participation

          The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

          The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

          Course Objectives

          By the end of this course participants will be able to:

          • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
          • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
          • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
          • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
          • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
          • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
          • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
          • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

          Payment Policy

          • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
          • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
          • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

          PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

          Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

          Cancellation and Substitution Policy

          All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

          Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

          There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

          IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

          Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

          Meet Your Trainer

          Craddock Stropes

          Craddock Stropes (she/her) is a facilitator, trainer and coach with more than 25 years of experience in the local government and non-profit sectors. Her work centers on connecting people with ideas to create inclusive, strategic and tangible solutions that make everyday lives better. She is chair of the IAP2 USA Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee, a member of the American Public Works Association national DEI Committee and is active in the International Network of Asian Public Administrators. She has presented learning sessions on inclusion, public engagement and crisis communications for Connect, California Association for Public Information Officers, Public Relations Society of America, American Public Works Association and Transforming Local Government conferences. She is currently a senior management analyst for the City of Carlsbad.

          Show details

        • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

          • February 19, 2026
          • February 20, 2026
          • 2 sessions
          • Online with Doug Zenn
          • 21
          Register

          Fundamentals of Public Participation

          The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

          The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

          Course Objectives

          By the end of this course participants will be able to:

          • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
          • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
          • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
          • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
          • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
          • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
          • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
          • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

          Payment Policy

          • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
          • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
          • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

          PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

          Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

          Cancellation and Substitution Policy

          All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

          Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

          There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

          IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

          Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

          Meet Your Trainer

          Doug Zenn

          Doug Zenn has 30 years of experience in the communications field and has developed and managed community involvement, awareness, and education efforts around numerous issues including visioning, transportation, water resources, community-based planning and more. Doug led Zenn Associates' development of the innovative “Three-Dimensional Public Participation” model (3DP2) an approach that expands community access to project information and provides unique avenues for community input including the use of new technologies. Doug also serves on the executive committee for IAP2’s Cascade Chapter (Oregon and Southwest Washington) and is a certified trainer for IAP2’s public involvement foundations courses. Doug Zenn has 30 years of experience in the communications field and has developed and managed community involvement.

          Show details

        • Midwest Chapter, In Person, Full Certificate Training

          • February 23, 2026
          • February 27, 2026
          • 5 sessions
          • JEO Consulting Group 11213 Davenport Street, Suite 200 Omaha, NE 68154
          • 10
          Register

          Midwest Chapter, In Person, Full Certificate Global Learning Pathway IAP2 Training

          Dates: February 23-27, 2026

          • Fundamentals: February 23
          • Designing and Leading P2: February 24 and 25 
          • Applying Methods in P2: February 26 and 27 

          Time: 8:30am to 5:00pm daily 

          Location: Omaha, NE (in-person)

          JEO Consulting Group

          11213 Davenport Street, Suite 200

          Omaha, NE 68154

          *8 hour training each day. 

            Professional Certification/Credits

             — Cancellation and Substitution Policy —

            Trainer: Doug Zenn 

            Doug Zenn has 30 years of experience in the communications field and has developed and managed community involvement, awareness, and education efforts around numerous issues including visioning, transportation, water resources, community-based planning and more. Doug has led ZennAssociates’ development of the innovative “Three-Dimensional Public Participation” model (3DP2) an approach that expands community access to project information and provides unique avenues for community input including the use of new technologies. Doug also serves on the executive committee for IAP2’s Cascade Chapter (Oregon and Southwest Washington) and is a certified trainer for IAP2’s public involvement foundations courses. Doug Zenn has 30 years of experience in the communications field and has developed and managed community involvement.
            Show details

          • Applying Methods for Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

            • February 24, 2026
            • February 27, 2026
            • 4 sessions
            • Online with Kimberly Horndeski
            • 20
            Register

            Applying Methods for Public Participation

            **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

            Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods. This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

            The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

            Course Objectives

            • Identify a range of methods that can be used for various engagement purposes and processes, and strategies to select the most appropriate method/s for an engagement project/process
            • Research, design and test a F2F and/or online method using a range of tools and resources
            • Apply the four steps of designing a method incorporating the eight key components of method design
            • Develop rational and experiential aims
            • Design an appropriate format
            • Design questions and process
            • Develop appropriate communications
            • Combine methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives and test for appropriate sequencing.
            • Incorporate inclusion and diversity principles
            • Identify data management needs, evaluation points and measures
            • Identify resources required
            • Explore a variety of both F2F and online methods/techniques that are more structured and have nested methods within them (e.g. Deliberative Processes, Appreciative Inquiry and Open Space Technology)
            • Analyze the specific requirements for online and digital methods, identify and select appropriate platforms and tools to meet needs and strategize to develop these methods for delivery
            • Identify principles for monitoring online activity
            • Test the design by running elements of the method and submitting to peer review using a checklist
            • Apply methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives, including using effective communication skills, and test for appropriate sequencing
            • Design key messages and communication tools that build trust and integrity, and meet the needs of diverse audiences

              Payment Policy

              • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
              • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
              • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

              PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

              Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

              Cancellation and Substitution Policy

              All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

              Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

              There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

              IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

              Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

              Meet Your Trainer

              Kimberly Horndeski

              Kimberly Horndeski is a certified mediator, facilitator, and the Executive Director of Community Consulting LLC. Her work focuses on transforming conflict into successful strategies for the future. She has led multiple state, national, and international working groups to overcome challenges and reach agreement. Her projects include bottom-up approaches, such as establishing a coalition with fundamentally conflicting interests to collaboratively negotiate agreement on a $2.5 billion dollar component of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, and top-down approaches, such as assisting the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to incorporate nationwide stakeholder values into the decision-making process for federally-listed threatened and endangered species. Kimberly knows it is not information alone that produces positive outcomes or reduces conflict. It is the ability to engage key stakeholders and effectively design, plan, and implement an engagement process that results in creative and lasting solutions for the future. 

              Currently, Kimberly serves on the USA Board of the International Association of Public Participation, the Leadership Council for the Association for Conflict Resolution’s Environment and Public Policy Section, and is a Professor of Practice on collaboration and communication for Virginia Tech University. 

              Show details

            • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

              • March 10, 2026
              • March 11, 2026
              • 2 sessions
              • Online with Michelle Gutt
              • 21
              Register

              Fundamentals of Public Participation

              The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

              The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

              Course Objectives

              By the end of this course participants will be able to:

              • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
              • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
              • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
              • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
              • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
              • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
              • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
              • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

              Payment Policy

              • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
              • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
              • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

              PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

              Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

              Cancellation and Substitution Policy

              All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

              Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

              There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

              IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

              Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

              Meet Your Trainer

              Michelle Gutt

              Michelle brings 40 years of experience in public relations and community engagement across government, corporate, and nonprofit sectors to her training. With two decades in municipal government communications and engagement, Michelle has developed a deep understanding of how to build strong, lasting connections between local government and the communities they serve. Michelle began her IAP2 journey in 2012 and became a licensed trainer in 2024. She currently serves as the Community Engagement Manager for the City of Fort Worth, where her team is responsible for planning and implementing all of the community outreach and engagement for the 12th largest city in the U.S. She is also the owner of PRP2 Connections.

              Show details

            • Understanding Conflict in Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

              • March 19, 2026
              • March 20, 2026
              • 2 sessions
              • Online with Trainer: Cathy Smith
              • 20
              Register

              Understanding Conflict in Public Participation

              **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation or the previous Foundations Training to take this course**

              The aim of Understanding Conflict in P2/engagement is to help you understand, and more effectively manage, conflict dynamics. The focus of this Level 1 course will be on developing the skills of participants to identify and mitigate situations of tension and conflict within their P2/engagement work.




              Course Objectives:

              • Understand the sources, types and factors that contribute to conflict in P2/engagement and the impact they may have on the process

              • Understand the role of power and influence in engagement practice

              • Understand and identify the cycle of escalation, and the behaviors, attitudes and actions that are evident as conflict increases

              • Contribute to and/or apply strategies to de-escalate challenging situations

              • Identify how to build effective relationships and partnerships through empathy, active listening, respect and trust

              • Learn approaches to work in challenging situations applying behaviors that build trust and credibility

              • Consider the role of integrity and ethics in the conduct of the P2/engagement practitioner, and how that is upheld in the process

                Payment Policy

                • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangements have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                Meet your Trainer: Cathy Smith

                Cathy’s work in the inter-related fields associated with climate change—land use, transportation, water, energy, health—brings depth of knowledge and understanding of current engagement needs. As a past community mediator and practicing writer and storyteller, her engagement insights span from conflict management to communications. She’s one of 15 Certified Public Participation Practitioners in the country, a graduate of USD’s School of Law, and IAP2USA’s Past President.

                Show details

              • Facilitating Groups - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                • April 01, 2026
                • April 02, 2026
                • 2 sessions
                • Online with Trainer Cathy Smith
                • 21
                Register

                Facilitating Groups 

                new elective course offering to IAP2 **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation or IAP2's previous Foundations Training to take this course**

                Explore the facilitation framework to develop skills and confidence in developing your engagement facilitation approach.

                The aim of Facilitating Groups is to explore the framework and develop skills and confidence in facilitating P2 and engagement methods. The focus will be about enhancing practitioners’ ability to respond appropriately, generating confidence in and support for your facilitation approach.

                Course objectives

                • Examine the framework and purpose of facilitation in an engagement context
                • Build a repertoire of tools and processes
                • Practice some core skills
                • Troubleshoot specific challenges 
                • Explore the changes needed for facilitation of digital engagement processes

                Payment Policy

                • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangements have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                Meet your Trainer: Cathy Smith 

                Cathy’s work in the inter-related fields associated with climate change—land use, transportation, water, energy, health—brings depth of knowledge and understanding of current engagement needs. As a past community mediator and practicing writer and storyteller, her engagement insights span from conflict management to communications. She’s one of 15 Certified Public Participation Practitioners in the country, a graduate of USD’s School of Law, and IAP2USA’s Past President.

                Show details

              • Applying Methods for Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                • April 14, 2026
                • April 17, 2026
                • 4 sessions
                • Online with Doug Zenn
                • 21
                Register

                Applying Methods for Public Participation

                **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

                Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods. This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

                The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

                Course Objectives

                • Identify a range of methods that can be used for various engagement purposes and processes, and strategies to select the most appropriate method/s for an engagement project/process
                • Research, design and test a F2F and/or online method using a range of tools and resources
                • Apply the four steps of designing a method incorporating the eight key components of method design
                • Develop rational and experiential aims
                • Design an appropriate format
                • Design questions and process
                • Develop appropriate communications
                • Combine methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives and test for appropriate sequencing.
                • Incorporate inclusion and diversity principles
                • Identify data management needs, evaluation points and measures
                • Identify resources required
                • Explore a variety of both F2F and online methods/techniques that are more structured and have nested methods within them (e.g. Deliberative Processes, Appreciative Inquiry and Open Space Technology)
                • Analyze the specific requirements for online and digital methods, identify and select appropriate platforms and tools to meet needs and strategize to develop these methods for delivery
                • Identify principles for monitoring online activity
                • Test the design by running elements of the method and submitting to peer review using a checklist
                • Apply methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives, including using effective communication skills, and test for appropriate sequencing
                • Design key messages and communication tools that build trust and integrity, and meet the needs of diverse audiences

                  Payment Policy

                  • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                  • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                  • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                  PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                  Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                  Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                  All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                  Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                  There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                  IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                  Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                  Meet Your Trainer

                  Doug Zenn

                  Doug Zenn has 30 years of experience in the communications field and has developed and managed community involvement, awareness, and education efforts around numerous issues including visioning, transportation, water resources, community-based planning and more. Doug led Zenn Associates' development of the innovative “Three-Dimensional Public Participation” model (3DP2) an approach that expands community access to project information and provides unique avenues for community input including the use of new technologies. Doug also serves on the executive committee for IAP2’s Cascade Chapter (Oregon and Southwest Washington) and is a certified trainer for IAP2’s public involvement foundations courses. Doug Zenn has 30 years of experience in the communications field and has developed and managed community involvement.

                  Show details

                • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                  • April 23, 2026
                  • April 24, 2026
                  • 2 sessions
                  • Online with Kimberly Horndeski
                  • 21
                  Register

                  Fundamentals of Public Participation

                  The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

                  The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

                  Course Objectives

                  By the end of this course participants will be able to:

                  • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
                  • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
                  • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
                  • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
                  • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
                  • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
                  • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
                  • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

                  Payment Policy

                  • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                  • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                  • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                  PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                  Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                  Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                  All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                  Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                  There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                  IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                  Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                  Meet Your Trainer

                  Kimberly Horndeski

                  Kimberly Horndeski is a certified mediator, facilitator, and the Executive Director of Community Consulting LLC. Her work focuses on transforming conflict into successful strategies for the future. She has led multiple state, national, and international working groups to overcome challenges and reach agreement. Her projects include bottom-up approaches, such as establishing a coalition with fundamentally conflicting interests to collaboratively negotiate agreement on a $2.5 billion dollar component of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, and top-down approaches, such as assisting the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to incorporate nationwide stakeholder values into the decision-making process for federally-listed threatened and endangered species. Kimberly knows it is not information alone that produces positive outcomes or reduces conflict. It is the ability to engage key stakeholders and effectively design, plan, and implement an engagement process that results in creative and lasting solutions for the future. 

                  Currently, Kimberly serves on the USA Board of the International Association of Public Participation, the Leadership Council for the Association for Conflict Resolution’s Environment and Public Policy Section, and is a Professor of Practice on collaboration and communication for Virginia Tech University. 

                  Show details

                • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                  • May 21, 2026
                  • May 22, 2026
                  • 2 sessions
                  • Online with Cathy Smith
                  • 21
                  Register

                  Fundamentals of Public Participation

                  The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

                  The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

                  Course Objectives

                  By the end of this course participants will be able to:

                  • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
                  • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
                  • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
                  • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
                  • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
                  • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
                  • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
                  • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

                  Payment Policy

                  • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                  • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                  • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                  PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                  Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                  Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                  All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                  Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                  There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                  IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                  Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                  Meet Your Trainer

                  Cathy Smith

                  Cathy’s work in the inter-related fields associated with climate change—land use, transportation, water, energy, health—brings depth of knowledge and understanding of current engagement needs. As a past community mediator and practicing writer and storyteller, her engagement insights span from conflict management to communications. She’s one of 15 Certified Public Participation Practitioners in the country, a graduate of USD’s School of Law, and IAP2USA’s Past President.

                  Show details

                • Applying Methods for Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                  • May 26, 2026
                  • May 29, 2026
                  • 4 sessions
                  • Online with Justin Schneider
                  • 21
                  Register

                  Applying Methods for Public Participation

                  **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

                  Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods. This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

                  The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

                  Course Objectives

                  • Identify a range of methods that can be used for various engagement purposes and processes, and strategies to select the most appropriate method/s for an engagement project/process
                  • Research, design and test a F2F and/or online method using a range of tools and resources
                  • Apply the four steps of designing a method incorporating the eight key components of method design
                  • Develop rational and experiential aims
                  • Design an appropriate format
                  • Design questions and process
                  • Develop appropriate communications
                  • Combine methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives and test for appropriate sequencing.
                  • Incorporate inclusion and diversity principles
                  • Identify data management needs, evaluation points and measures
                  • Identify resources required
                  • Explore a variety of both F2F and online methods/techniques that are more structured and have nested methods within them (e.g. Deliberative Processes, Appreciative Inquiry and Open Space Technology)
                  • Analyze the specific requirements for online and digital methods, identify and select appropriate platforms and tools to meet needs and strategize to develop these methods for delivery
                  • Identify principles for monitoring online activity
                  • Test the design by running elements of the method and submitting to peer review using a checklist
                  • Apply methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives, including using effective communication skills, and test for appropriate sequencing
                  • Design key messages and communication tools that build trust and integrity, and meet the needs of diverse audiences

                    Payment Policy

                    • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                    • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                    • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                    PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                    Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                    Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                    All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                    Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                    There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                    IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                    Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                    Meet Your Trainer

                    Justin Schneider

                    Justin Schneider has more than 20 years of experience working with communities in the United States and abroad, focusing on p2/engagement, community development, community-based research, and legal work. Justin began his connection with IAP2 in 2018 and now supports the Lonestar Chapter. Currently, Justin is based in Austin, Texas and manages Oak Grove Community Consulting. He also works for Austin Parks and Recreation Department as a community engagement consultant and supports training within the organization. If you work for the City of Austin, please reach out to Justin before registering.

                    Show details

                  • Understanding Conflict in Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                    • June 16, 2026
                    • June 17, 2026
                    • 2 sessions
                    • Online with Trainer Kimberly Horndeski
                    • 21
                    Register

                    Understanding Conflict in Public Participation

                    **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation or the previous Foundations Training to take this course**

                    The aim of Understanding Conflict in P2/engagement is to help you understand, and more effectively manage, conflict dynamics. The focus of this Level 1 course will be on developing the skills of participants to identify and mitigate situations of tension and conflict within their P2/engagement work.




                    Course Objectives:

                    • Understand the sources, types and factors that contribute to conflict in P2/engagement and the impact they may have on the process

                    • Understand the role of power and influence in engagement practice

                    • Understand and identify the cycle of escalation, and the behaviors, attitudes and actions that are evident as conflict increases

                    • Contribute to and/or apply strategies to de-escalate challenging situations

                    • Identify how to build effective relationships and partnerships through empathy, active listening, respect and trust

                    • Learn approaches to work in challenging situations applying behaviors that build trust and credibility

                    • Consider the role of integrity and ethics in the conduct of the P2/engagement practitioner, and how that is upheld in the process

                      Payment Policy

                      • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                      • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                      • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangements have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                      PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                      Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                      Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                      All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                      Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                      There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                      IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                      Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                      Meet your Trainer: Kimberly Horndeski

                      Show details

                    • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                      • June 23, 2026
                      • June 24, 2026
                      • 2 sessions
                      • Online with Cathy Smith
                      • 21
                      Register

                      Fundamentals of Public Participation

                      The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

                      The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

                      Course Objectives

                      By the end of this course participants will be able to:

                      • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
                      • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
                      • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
                      • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
                      • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
                      • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
                      • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
                      • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

                      Payment Policy

                      • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                      • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                      • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                      PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                      Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                      Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                      All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                      Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                      There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                      IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                      Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                      Meet Your Trainer

                      Cathy Smith

                      Cathy’s work in the inter-related fields associated with climate change—land use, transportation, water, energy, health—brings depth of knowledge and understanding of current engagement needs. As a past community mediator and practicing writer and storyteller, her engagement insights span from conflict management to communications. She’s one of 15 Certified Public Participation Practitioners in the country, a graduate of USD’s School of Law, and IAP2USA’s Past President.

                      Show details

                    • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                      • July 28, 2026
                      • July 29, 2026
                      • 2 sessions
                      • Online with Adrienne Wright
                      • 21
                      Register

                      Fundamentals of Public Participation

                      The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

                      The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

                      Course Objectives

                      By the end of this course participants will be able to:

                      • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
                      • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
                      • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
                      • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
                      • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
                      • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
                      • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
                      • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

                      Payment Policy

                      • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                      • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                      • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                      PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                      Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                      Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                      All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                      Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                      There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                      IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                      Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                      Meet Your Trainer

                      Adriene Wright

                      Adriene is a seasoned consultant and thought leader with over 20 years of experience in public engagement. She is the founder, President, and CEO of Abelita LLC, a business management consulting firm based in Tallahassee, Florida. Her career spans leadership roles in engineering and construction, marketing and communications, and executive leadership. She has worked in diverse market sectors including energy, transportation, automotive, and higher education, served as a Brookings Congressional Fellow in the U.S. Senate.

                      Adriene specializes in designing and leading public engagement initiatives for multinational corporations, government organizations, nonprofits, and higher education institutions. Skilled in understanding community demographics, she excels at engaging marginalized and underserved communities, ensuring diverse perspectives are included in decision-making processes.

                      Adriene is an active member of IAP2 USA and served on the International IAP2 Board from 2020 to 2024. In addition to her consulting work, she is a certified life coach, trainer, speaker, and published author.

                      Show details

                    • Applying Methods for Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                      • August 04, 2026
                      • August 07, 2026
                      • 4 sessions
                      • Online with Cathy Smith
                      • 21
                      Register

                      Applying Methods for Public Participation

                      **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

                      Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods. This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

                      The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

                      Course Objectives

                      • Identify a range of methods that can be used for various engagement purposes and processes, and strategies to select the most appropriate method/s for an engagement project/process
                      • Research, design and test a F2F and/or online method using a range of tools and resources
                      • Apply the four steps of designing a method incorporating the eight key components of method design
                      • Develop rational and experiential aims
                      • Design an appropriate format
                      • Design questions and process
                      • Develop appropriate communications
                      • Combine methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives and test for appropriate sequencing.
                      • Incorporate inclusion and diversity principles
                      • Identify data management needs, evaluation points and measures
                      • Identify resources required
                      • Explore a variety of both F2F and online methods/techniques that are more structured and have nested methods within them (e.g. Deliberative Processes, Appreciative Inquiry and Open Space Technology)
                      • Analyze the specific requirements for online and digital methods, identify and select appropriate platforms and tools to meet needs and strategize to develop these methods for delivery
                      • Identify principles for monitoring online activity
                      • Test the design by running elements of the method and submitting to peer review using a checklist
                      • Apply methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives, including using effective communication skills, and test for appropriate sequencing
                      • Design key messages and communication tools that build trust and integrity, and meet the needs of diverse audiences

                        Payment Policy

                        • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                        • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                        • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                        PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                        Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                        Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                        All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                        Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                        There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                        IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                        Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                        Meet Your Trainer

                        Cathy Smith

                        Cathy’s work in the inter-related fields associated with climate change—land use, transportation, water, energy, health—brings depth of knowledge and understanding of current engagement needs. As a past community mediator and practicing writer and storyteller, her engagement insights span from conflict management to communications. She’s one of 15 Certified Public Participation Practitioners in the country, a graduate of USD’s School of Law, and IAP2USA’s Past President.

                        Show details

                      • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                        • September 22, 2026
                        • September 23, 2026
                        • 2 sessions
                        • Online with Justin Schneider
                        • 21
                        Register

                        Fundamentals of Public Participation

                        The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

                        The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

                        Course Objectives

                        By the end of this course participants will be able to:

                        • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
                        • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
                        • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
                        • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
                        • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
                        • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
                        • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
                        • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

                        Payment Policy

                        • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                        • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                        • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                        PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                        Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                        Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                        All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                        Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                        There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                        IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                        Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                        Meet Your Trainer

                        Justin Schneider

                        Justin Schneider has more than 20 years of experience working with communities in the United States and abroad, focusing on p2/engagement, community development, community-based research, and legal work. Justin began his connection with IAP2 in 2018 and now supports the Lonestar Chapter. Currently, Justin is based in Austin, Texas and manages Oak Grove Community Consulting. He also works for Austin Parks and Recreation Department as a community engagement consultant and supports training within the organization. If you work for the City of Austin, please reach out to Justin before registering.

                        Show details

                      • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                        • October 14, 2026
                        • October 15, 2026
                        • 2 sessions
                        • Online with Doug Zenn
                        • 21
                        Register

                        Fundamentals of Public Participation

                        The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

                        The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

                        Course Objectives

                        By the end of this course participants will be able to:

                        • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
                        • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
                        • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
                        • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
                        • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
                        • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
                        • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
                        • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

                        Payment Policy

                        • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                        • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                        • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                        PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                        Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                        Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                        All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                        Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                        There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                        IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                        Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                        Meet Your Trainer

                        Doug Zenn

                        Doug Zenn has 30 years of experience in the communications field and has developed and managed community involvement, awareness, and education efforts around numerous issues including visioning, transportation, water resources, community-based planning and more. Doug led Zenn Associates' development of the innovative “Three-Dimensional Public Participation” model (3DP2) an approach that expands community access to project information and provides unique avenues for community input including the use of new technologies. Doug also serves on the executive committee for IAP2’s Cascade Chapter (Oregon and Southwest Washington) and is a certified trainer for IAP2’s public involvement foundations courses. Doug Zenn has 30 years of experience in the communications field and has developed and managed community involvement.

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                      • Facilitating Groups - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                        • October 20, 2026
                        • October 21, 2026
                        • 2 sessions
                        • Online with Trainer Kimberly Horndeski
                        • 21
                        Register

                        Facilitating Groups 

                        new elective course offering to IAP2 **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation or IAP2's previous Foundations Training to take this course**

                        Explore the facilitation framework to develop skills and confidence in developing your engagement facilitation approach.

                        The aim of Facilitating Groups is to explore the framework and develop skills and confidence in facilitating P2 and engagement methods. The focus will be about enhancing practitioners’ ability to respond appropriately, generating confidence in and support for your facilitation approach.

                        Course objectives

                        • Examine the framework and purpose of facilitation in an engagement context
                        • Build a repertoire of tools and processes
                        • Practice some core skills
                        • Troubleshoot specific challenges 
                        • Explore the changes needed for facilitation of digital engagement processes

                        Payment Policy

                        • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                        • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                        • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangements have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                        PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                        Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                        Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                        All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                        Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                        There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                        IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                        Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                        Meet your Trainer: Kimberly Horndeski 


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                      • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                        • November 12, 2026
                        • November 13, 2026
                        • 2 sessions
                        • Online with Craddock Stropes
                        • 21
                        Register

                        Fundamentals of Public Participation

                        The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

                        The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

                        Course Objectives

                        By the end of this course participants will be able to:

                        • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
                        • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
                        • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
                        • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
                        • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
                        • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
                        • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
                        • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

                        Payment Policy

                        • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                        • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                        • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                        PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                        Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                        Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                        All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                        Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                        There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                        IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                        Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                        Meet Your Trainer

                        Craddock Stropes

                        Craddock Stropes (she/her) is a facilitator, trainer and coach with more than 25 years of experience in the local government and non-profit sectors. Her work centers on connecting people with ideas to create inclusive, strategic and tangible solutions that make everyday lives better. She is chair of the IAP2 USA Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee, a member of the American Public Works Association national DEI Committee and is active in the International Network of Asian Public Administrators. She has presented learning sessions on inclusion, public engagement and crisis communications for Connect, California Association for Public Information Officers, Public Relations Society of America, American Public Works Association and Transforming Local Government conferences. She is currently a senior management analyst for the City of Carlsbad.

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                      • Applying Methods for Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                        • November 17, 2026
                        • November 20, 2026
                        • 4 sessions
                        • Online with Justin Schneider
                        • 21
                        Register

                        Applying Methods for Public Participation

                        **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

                        Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods. This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

                        The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

                        Course Objectives

                        • Identify a range of methods that can be used for various engagement purposes and processes, and strategies to select the most appropriate method/s for an engagement project/process
                        • Research, design and test a F2F and/or online method using a range of tools and resources
                        • Apply the four steps of designing a method incorporating the eight key components of method design
                        • Develop rational and experiential aims
                        • Design an appropriate format
                        • Design questions and process
                        • Develop appropriate communications
                        • Combine methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives and test for appropriate sequencing.
                        • Incorporate inclusion and diversity principles
                        • Identify data management needs, evaluation points and measures
                        • Identify resources required
                        • Explore a variety of both F2F and online methods/techniques that are more structured and have nested methods within them (e.g. Deliberative Processes, Appreciative Inquiry and Open Space Technology)
                        • Analyze the specific requirements for online and digital methods, identify and select appropriate platforms and tools to meet needs and strategize to develop these methods for delivery
                        • Identify principles for monitoring online activity
                        • Test the design by running elements of the method and submitting to peer review using a checklist
                        • Apply methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives, including using effective communication skills, and test for appropriate sequencing
                        • Design key messages and communication tools that build trust and integrity, and meet the needs of diverse audiences

                          Payment Policy

                          • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                          • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                          • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                          PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                          Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                          Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                          All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                          Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                          There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                          IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                          Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                          Meet Your Trainer

                          Justin Schneider

                          Justin Schneider has more than 20 years of experience working with communities in the United States and abroad, focusing on p2/engagement, community development, community-based research, and legal work. Justin began his connection with IAP2 in 2018 and now supports the Lonestar Chapter. Currently, Justin is based in Austin, Texas and manages Oak Grove Community Consulting. He also works for Austin Parks and Recreation Department as a community engagement consultant and supports training within the organization. If you work for the City of Austin, please reach out to Justin before registering.

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                        • Applying Methods for Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                          • December 08, 2026
                          • December 11, 2026
                          • 4 sessions
                          • Online with Craddock Stropes
                          • 21
                          Register

                          Applying Methods for Public Participation

                          **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

                          Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods. This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

                          The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

                          Course Objectives

                          • Identify a range of methods that can be used for various engagement purposes and processes, and strategies to select the most appropriate method/s for an engagement project/process
                          • Research, design and test a F2F and/or online method using a range of tools and resources
                          • Apply the four steps of designing a method incorporating the eight key components of method design
                          • Develop rational and experiential aims
                          • Design an appropriate format
                          • Design questions and process
                          • Develop appropriate communications
                          • Combine methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives and test for appropriate sequencing.
                          • Incorporate inclusion and diversity principles
                          • Identify data management needs, evaluation points and measures
                          • Identify resources required
                          • Explore a variety of both F2F and online methods/techniques that are more structured and have nested methods within them (e.g. Deliberative Processes, Appreciative Inquiry and Open Space Technology)
                          • Analyze the specific requirements for online and digital methods, identify and select appropriate platforms and tools to meet needs and strategize to develop these methods for delivery
                          • Identify principles for monitoring online activity
                          • Test the design by running elements of the method and submitting to peer review using a checklist
                          • Apply methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives, including using effective communication skills, and test for appropriate sequencing
                          • Design key messages and communication tools that build trust and integrity, and meet the needs of diverse audiences

                            Payment Policy

                            • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                            • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                            • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                            PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                            Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                            Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                            All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                            Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                            There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                            IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                            Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                            Meet Your Trainer

                            Craddock Stropes

                            Craddock Stropes (she/her) is a facilitator, trainer and coach with more than 25 years of experience in the local government and non-profit sectors. Her work centers on connecting people with ideas to create inclusive, strategic and tangible solutions that make everyday lives better. She is chair of the IAP2 USA Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee, a member of the American Public Works Association national DEI Committee and is active in the International Network of Asian Public Administrators. She has presented learning sessions on inclusion, public engagement and crisis communications for Connect, California Association for Public Information Officers, Public Relations Society of America, American Public Works Association and Transforming Local Government conferences. She is currently a senior management analyst for the City of Carlsbad.


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                          IAP2 Licensed Trainers

                          IAP2 USA Trainers are among the most dedicated, experienced and welcoming trainers in the world. Many volunteered as course developers for the Flagship Courses, collaborators in the formation of the IAP2 Federation, and leaders in launching the IAP2 USA Affiliate. Learn more about the History of IAP2 USA and Get Involved!

                          For the complete schedule of upcoming trainings and events, please visit our Events Calendar. In addition, the IAP2 Federation maintains a global calendar of public IAP2 training programs.


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