Williams News Logo
Grand Canyon News Logo

Trusted local news leader for Williams AZ and the Grand Canyon

Albright marks 50 years of training

On Dec. 13, the staff of Horace M. Albright Training Center marked the 50th anniversary of its first graduating class. Appropriately, there was a class in session and graduating that very day to help celebrate. They also heard a short speech by the acting superintendent, posed for a commemorative photo and consumed a delicious cake.

The idea of a National Park Service Training Center program evolved in the 1950s as the agency experienced rapid growth and unprecedented popularity. To prepare for the increasing numbers of new staff needed to meet these challenges, Director Conrad Wirth approved initial creation of the center at Yosemite National Park, to be named in honor of the inspirational second director of the National Park Service.

After modest funding was acquired and a suitable location selected, the first "Introduction to NPS Operations" course started with 25 participants on Sept. 23, 1957. Lasting a full 12 weeks, the rigorous curriculum oriented students to the agency and provided in-depth, hands-on opportunities to practice park protection, interpretation and administration. The group's successful graduation on Dec. 13, 1957 was a symbol and a landmark in the National Park Service of providing space, time, and opportunity for employees to learn what they need to successfully accomplish the NPS mission.

Increased demand for classes and cramped conditions at Yosemite soon led to a new facility built at the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Constructed during the Mission 66 era, plans ultimately included a classroom facility as well as staff and student housing. The center was dedicated on Oct. 26, 1963 to continue the legacy started at Yosemite.

Over the decades, the center has been updated to meet the needs of a diverse agency and workforce.

Albright Training Center recently underwent a multi-million dollar renovation, completed in 2006, which significantly improved the health and safety of the facilities, expanded teaching capability and converted student residences to single-occupancy studios.

Coursework offered at Albright has also evolved with the times. Today, Albright is home to the NPS Natural and Cultural Resources Stewardship and Visitor and Resource Protection training programs.

The Center is also a venue for NPS Fundamentals, training that provides all new and experienced NPS employees foundational learning of NPS Universal Competencies, and includes web-based distance learning, on-campus study, and field exercises.

In a recent memorandum, NPS Director Mary Bomar urged each supervisor "to make Fundamentals a priority for all of their new permanent employees."

It is worthy to note that, when not in use by the NPS, any federal agency is welcome to host a training event at Horace M. Albright Training Center.

The center's inspirational setting, renovated classroom and lodging facilities, staff support and low cost of use provide a great combination of quality, function and value.

At the milestone of this anniversary, over 20,000 students have learned at Horace M. Albright Training Center. Perhaps you are one of them. If so, thank you for being part of the legacy of learning, camaraderie, and perpetuation of NPS excellence the center is known for.

Should you want to learn more about use of the center or the training programs offered, contact Mark Harner at 638-7983 or at Mark_Harner@nps.gov.


Donate Report a Typo Contact