Are you a DSP looking to further their career, or maybe looking to sharpen your skills? You may want to look into earning a Direct Support Professional Microcredential! A microcredential is a short, industry-focused credential designed to provide in-demand skills in a particular sector. The Direct Support Professional Microcredential courses help enrolled students with skills, education, and training for work with individuals with disabilities.

We recently caught up with Dion Williams, Regional House Manager (RHM) here in Living Resources’ Residential Program. Dion just finished two microcredential courses, DSP 1 and DSP 2, and was recently promoted to RHM following his completion of the courses! Initially, Dion signed up for the opportunity to gain more knowledge around his work as a DSP and to learn how to better support the individuals we serve. He was also interested in the opportunity to earn up to $1.50 more per hour, as anyone who finishes both courses will receive a pay increase to reflect their up-to-date skills and knowledge.

Dion explained that registering for the courses wasn’t hard at all, and you’re even given a mentor that helps you with registration and with your classes. The mentor checks over your paperwork, and if any other documentation is required, they work with you to ensure your registration is complete. Dion registered for the course with SUNY Empire, and was able to take each course online. DSP 1 took about 8 weeks to complete, while DSP 2 is a bit more intensive at 16 weeks.

After completing both courses, Dion now has a thorough understanding of person-centered planning, inclusion techniques, the benefits of community inclusion, ethics of care, and more. When asked if he has one piece of advice for anyone considering taking the course he said, “If you have the time and you can take it, I highly recommend you do”.  Congratulations on completing your microcredential courses Dion, keep up the great work!

For more information on SUNY Empire’s DSP Microcredential courses, please visit https://catalog.sunyempire.edu/undergraduate/areas-study-degrees-certificates/direct-support-professionals-mc/