Staff Development & Training Bureau

Mission Statement

The mission of the Staff Development and Training Bureau is to enhance public safety across Arizona by providing modern, effective training and development programs that equip correctional and non-correctional staff with the skills, knowledge, and leadership development that build meaningful organizational culture.

About Us

The Staff Development and Training Bureau at the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry plays a vital role in equipping employees with the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform their jobs effectively. By identifying skill gaps and designing targeted training programs, the Bureau ensures staff members are well-prepared to meet job demands, improve performance, and contribute to organizational success.

The Bureau develops and delivers training through a variety of methods, including classroom instruction, computer base training (CBT), online courses, and on-the-job training. These programs are tailored to meet the needs of staff at all levels, ensuring that employees receive the most relevant and effective learning experiences to enhance their job performance.

Additionally, the Bureau evaluates the effectiveness of its training programs to measure their impact on employee performance and make necessary adjustments. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and aligning training with the department’s strategic goals, the Bureau supports ongoing career development and helps achieve the long-term objectives of the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry.

At the Staff Development and Training Bureau, we are passionate about empowering our team members to reach their full potential. Our innovative training programs are designed to inspire growth, sharpen skills, and build confident leaders at every level. By identifying skill gaps and delivering tailored learning opportunities—whether through interactive classroom sessions, dynamic online courses, or hands-on training—we equip correctional and non-correctional staff with the tools they need to excel. We’re not just about training; we’re about transformation, creating a culture of continuous learning that fuels career advancement and drives the success of our entire organization. Together, we’re building a stronger, safer Arizona!

Leadership Development Opportunities

At the Staff Development and Training Bureau, we are dedicated to preparing our staff for leadership roles and professional growth. While we’ve evolved beyond traditional academies, our current programs focus on equipping staff with dynamic leadership skills, fostering resilience, and navigating the challenges of modern correctional environments.

Through tailored workshops, on-demand online training, and mentorship opportunities, we ensure employees at all levels are prepared to lead with confidence and adaptability. These initiatives are designed to align with the Department’s mission, supporting our team in achieving both personal and organizational excellence.

Communication Mastery

At the Staff Development and Training Bureau, we recognize that effective communication is the cornerstone of professional success and teamwork. Our communication programs are designed to enhance verbal and nonverbal skills, active listening, and conflict resolution strategies for correctional and non-correctional staff alike. These initiatives empower employees to build trust, foster collaboration, and convey critical information with clarity and confidence. Whether through interactive workshops, online courses, or role-playing scenarios, we help our team members communicate effectively in any situation, supporting both personal growth and organizational excellence.

De-escalation Training

Managing high-stress situations with professionalism and composure is a vital skill in today’s correctional environment. Our de-escalation programs provide staff with practical tools to assess situations, identify triggers, and employ proven techniques to defuse tense interactions safely. By focusing on empathy, emotional intelligence, and strategic communication, we equip employees to resolve conflicts while maintaining the safety and dignity of everyone involved. These training opportunities not only enhance workplace safety but also align with our commitment to fostering a respectful, secure environment for staff, inmates, and the community we serve.