Applications are now closed. Thank you for your interest in the NCPP Conservation Planning Training Pilot. Stay tuned for updates on the next pilot training sessions, planned for 2026 in Grand Rapids, MI and Pittsburgh, PA.
Check back here or sign up for updates for more information as it becomes available.
Supporting Planners on the Path to Certification
NCPP is excited to pilot a streamlined training model designed to better support planners on their journey toward certification. The pilot program will provide a coordinated hybrid experience, offering step-by-step support and a clear path to continue the vital work of conservation. The goal is to help you:
- Complete multiple courses in a single effort
- Blend online and in-person learning for flexibility
- Receive support before, during, and after training
Future Sessions
NCPP has received an enthusiastic response to the pilot program training in San Antonio and is excited to bring the opportunity to Grand Rapids, MI and Pittsburgh, PA.
Grand Rapids, MI
Dates: Week of July 20, 2026*
Event: Held in conjunction with the NACD Summer Meeting
Pittsburgh, PA
Dates: Week of October 4, 2026*
Event: Held in conjunction with the NASCA Annual Meeting
*Exact session dates and details are still being finalized.
Because class size will be limited, participants will be selected through an application process. Applications will be prioritized based on readiness, commitment, need, and organizational support.
Subscribe to our mailing list to receive updates and get notified when applications open.
2026 Pilot Information
Ideal Candidates
By participating in this pilot project, you’ll help shape the future of how conservation planners across the country earn certification.
This pilot is a great fit if you:
- Are actively working toward conservation planner certification
- Have completed most prerequisite courses or planner-level requirements
- Are ready to complete certification soon after the pilot
- Have support from your supervisor, district board, or agency to participate
Participant Selection
Because this is a training program, participation is limited. Priority goes to those demonstrating the greatest readiness, commitment, and need. Applications will be reviewed considering the following:
- Experience and time in your current role
- Completion of prerequisites
- Commitment to full participation
- Supervisor or board support
- Certification backlog or urgency
- Equity or regional need
Applicant Requirements & Expectations
- Obtain local organizational support
- Attend a kick off meeting that will be announced prior to the pilot training
- Complete required online sessions prior to the in-person event
- Fully participate in the multi-day, hands-on field training
- Complete certification requirements within 6 months of the in-person training
Pre-Training Timeline
To be determined based on training dates.
Organizational Support Requirements
To ensure participants can fully benefit from the training, each organization must confirm support for:
- Time to attend and complete online training sessions
- Time to attend the full in-person event
- Travel and lodging for the in-person event
- Time to complete certification requirements after the training
Providing this support sets the participants up for success and ensures the training’s goals can be achieved.
Interested? Here's what you need to do.
Applications are now closed for the San Antonio training. The next pilot training sessions are planned for 2026 in Grand Rapids, MI and Pittsburgh, PA. Subscribe to our mailing list to receive updates and get notified when applications open.
Before you can apply, you will need to load completed planner programs to AgLearn.
If you are pursuing an NRCS Conservation Planner designation, it’s important to load the appropriate level Conservation Planner program in your AgLearn account to help you keep track of your progress and make sure you receive updates as they are released. NRCS staff should work with their supervisors to make sure the appropriate programs are loaded. Partners and affiliate staff can use this guide to load programs.
Questions?
We’re here to help. For questions about eligibility, scheduling, or applications, contact: Jan Thomas, training@wearencpp.com.
