What is the AUCD Virtual Trainee?

With AUCD member programs in every US state and territory as well as internationally, our trainees exist all across the world. The Virtual Trainee is an AUCD trainee who works to build a virtual network among these trainees at AUCD member programs.

This individual works remotely from his/her home Center/Program for one academic year to build and enhance a network among trainees at AUCD's UCEDD Centers and LEND Programs. Candidates should be a trainee in the coming year, have previously acquired knowledge of their Center or Program, and be interested in learning about the entire network of centers as well as national issues related to persons with disabilities and special health care needs. The person selected works with AUCD National Office staff, via electronic means, to build communications and information exchange among trainees throughout the network.

Duties of the Virtual Trainee include:

• Assist in planning trainee sessions/activities at AUCD gatherings
• Represent Trainees at Directors Meetings as requested
• Serve on the National Training Directors Council (NTDC), participating on regular conference calls and working with the NTDC Steering Committee
• Enhance the trainee section of the AUCD website by generating ideas for further site development and providing information to post
• Submit regular updates via existing network newsletters (monthly AUCD Digest and tri-yearly LEND Links) regarding items of interest to trainees and Virtual Trainee activities
• Provide regular updates of activities and issues on the AUCD Trainee Website
• Monitor the trainee listserve, sending periodic information to listserv members regarding upcoming conferences, disability topics, etc. that may be of potential interest to trainees
• Monitor the trainee Message Board
• Other duties as requested by AUCD staff

AUCD National Office staff will work with the virtual trainee providing support and suggestions. AUCD will also support the virtual trainee to attend the Fall AUCD Annual Meeting and Conference in Washington, D.C. and the Spring Disability Policy Seminar in Washington, D.C., paying transportation, lodging and registration costs. The Virtual Trainee will receive a $500 stipend per semester from AUCD, with an option to extend through the summer. This position is expected to take approximately 2-4 hours per week.

Are you interested in applying to be the next Virtual Trainee?

Interested candidates should submit their applications by visiting the application webpage, creating an account, and submitting the following:

1. your resume or vita
   
2. a letter of interest
   
3. a statement of support from your Director

This is an exciting opportunity for a current trainee with experience to increase his/her knowledge of the national network and learn more about national level activities and initiatives. It is also an opportunity to exercise leadership within the AUCD network. Directors and Faculty are urged to encourage trainees to apply for this opportunity and to allow the selected trainee to use this internship as his/her leadership activity for the coming year.