• |
  • |
  • |
  • |
Donate

National Training Directors Council (NTDC)

Read this page in plain language

The purpose of the National Training Directors Council (NTDC) is to serve as a focus and forum for the identification and discussion of issues related to preservice and in-service interdisciplinary training. NTDC functions as a representative voice of preservice interdisciplinary training interests and concerns within the AUCD Network, and influences the development and implementation of national training policies and initiatives, and shares best practices and exemplary resources developed and used by UCEDDs and LENDs across the nation.

Download Flyer

How NTDC Relates to Center Work

The National Training Director Council works for and with training directors and responds to their and the Network's needs. Current areas of support include:

  • The development of culturally competent interdisciplinary preservice training for individuals enrolled in Network training programs.
  • Developing curriculum and training for self-advocates and family members.
  • Incorporating community members and practicing professionals in their training programs in a manner which promotes diversity and inclusion.
  • The NTDC also supports and mentors training directors in their own development as leaders who build the capacity of the Network to affect change at the local, state, and national levels.

How to Get Involved

The Council is composed of one representative from each AUCD Network member who is the Preservice Education Coordinator and/or Training Director/Coordinator or a designee who best represents the overall training interests of that Center or Program. The full Council meets once a year in conjunction with the AUCD Conference. The NTDC Steering Committee and the Council's task force/ad hoc committees also meet in person once a year and as needed during the year through conference calls.

Related News

From Work Experience to Job Offers: Celebrating SEA 2026

Collage of six photos from Summer Enrichment Academy 2026: a desk-work session, a workshop with shelves, a basketball court activity, a lab setup with water testing, a science station with a sink, and a store aisle with a person reaching for items; includes event title and logos.

From Cohort-Mates to Colleagues: ArizonaLEND Alumni Match into Doctoral Psychology Internships

Celeste Vega (left) and Fedra Calderon (right) in front of a background that says “Disability Rights are Human Rights.”

Two friends and cohort-mates, Celeste Vega and Fedra Calderon, both matched into their psychology internships in the same month. 

Alt text for photo: Celeste Vega (left) and Fedra Calderon (right) in front of a background that says “Disability Rights are Human Rights.” More


BabySteps Study Focuses on Autism Spectrum Disorder at Iowa Health Care

BabySteps logo with a teal striped symbol and pink heart, plus the text “BabySteps: Pregnancy and Baby Milestones,” and the “IOWA HEALTH CARE” logo beneath it.

The University of Iowa Center for Disabilities and Development is researching how pregnancy, early childhood experiences, and genetic factors influence child development, with a focus on autism spectrum disorder (ASD). More


View More

Related Events