Executive Order 13562: your Ticket for a Enviable Career
The Executive Order 13562 was recently signed by President Barack Obama to address the issues witnessed in the Federal Government?s recruitment and hiring sector. Referred to as ?Recruiting and Hiring Students and Recent Graduates?, the order creates two new programs and modifies another. The program?s established and modified in the order are the Recent Graduates Program, Internship Program and the refreshed Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) Program.
Recent Graduates Program
The Recent Graduates Program provides developmental experiences in the Federal Government, and is designed for individuals who have recently graduated from recognized educational institutions or programs and looking for careers in civil service. Eligibility criteria for the program states that the application must be submitted within two years of successful completion of a two year degree or certificate except for veterans who have up to six years owing to their military service obligation.
Accepted applicants are placed in a dynamic training environment for a period of one year, which is subject to change depending on the training requirements. The program is administered by each hiring agency, where each must sign a participation agreement that highlights the expectations of the Recent Graduates Program. Training and development consists of an orientation program, mentorship, individual development plan, a minimum of 40 hours of interactive and formal training each year and career advancement opportunities. After completion of the program, recent graduates may be granted a permanent position or in some cases a limited appointment term.
Internship Program
A replacement for the STEP (Student Temporary Employment Program) and SCEP (Student Career Experience Program), the Internship Program is designed to offer students enrolled in high school until graduate level opportunities to find employment in agencies, and seek financial careers while still in school and get paid for work performed. Success completion of the program will make students eligible for a permanent job in the civil service.
Eligibility criteria include current students in high school and college, which can be vocational, technical, trade schools, etc. The program is administered by each hiring agency, who may hire on a temporary basis or for an indefinite period, and interns may work full or part time. Program completion and conversion includes a permanent position or a position lasting 1-4 years.
Presidential Management Fellows Program
Regarded as a premier leadership program, the PMFP is an entry level program designed for advanced degree candidates. Established more than 30 years ago, the program selects from the best candidates, and is designed to develop some of the best Federal Leaders in the United States. The program is administered by the PMF office, and the opportunity to apply is usually late summer or early fall. Training and development includes senior level mentorship, at least 80 hours of interactive and formal training each year for a total of 160 hours, and development opportunities in the field.