Trainees & Early Career Professionals
AUCD encourages trainees to be involved in the national network of LEND, UCEDD, and IDDRC programs and has created a number of opportunities for trainee involvement.
An AUCD Trainee is any individual who is enrolled in one of AUCD's LEND, UCEDD, or IDDRC programs. A trainee might be an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral student in a discipline such as audiology or social work; a trainee might be a fellow in pediatrics or psychology; a trainee might be a research assistant working on a genetic disorder or a family member learning about leadership. All trainees have a common desire to continue learning about helping and working with individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
There are over 4,000 AUCD trainees enrolled in the nation's LEND, UCEDD, and IDDRC programs. By being a trainee at an AUCD-member program, individuals are also members of AUCD. These AUCD trainees form a network and can learn from each other by discussing and sharing their common interests and unique experiences.
Are you an AUCD trainee?
As you begin your journey with AUCD, these three Trainee Orientation Modules will help you learn, connect, get involved, and grow as part of the network. Each includes videos and links to related resources. They were created with input and support from a range of leaders, including recent trainees. The information is sequenced so you can gradually build your understanding, but feel free to jump in wherever and whenever you are ready to start!
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Past Trainee Events
Emerging Leaders Networking Event: Cultivate & Amplify Your Network

Wednesday, January 13, 20214:00 - 5:30 pm ET
Location: Virtual
This event is tailored for current trainees, alumni/former trainees, early career professionals in the Emerging Leaders Community. This is a chance for Emerging Leaders to expand their network by connecting with established professionals in the AUCD Network.
Pre-Conference Orientation for Trainees

Thursday, November 12, 20205:00 - 6:00pm
Location: Webinar
This event will orient new and returning trainees to the AUCD 2020 Conference. Presenters will highlight concurrent and poster sessions relevant to trainees' disciplines and professional interests. Presenters will outline AUCD Special Interest Groups (SIG), AUCD Councils, and AUCD workgroup meetings open for trainee participation.