In addition to assessing a candidate's proven competence based on previous on-the-job performance, WIO- COMPAS is committed to providing professional development. All certification levels include Assessment Events that provide presentation and discussion sessions targeting emerging issues of concern to MPA management. Events also include sessions focused on professional skills building as a way to strengthen candidates' competences. These sessions are not, however, part of the scoring process. Assessors also provide individualized career guidance to candidates to help them improve their competence gaps and gain certification at the next level--as one step to advancing their career development.
Guest speakers invited to the Assessment Event summarize the latest advances on topics relevant to MPA management and review international practices and lead specific skills building exercises to help candidates improve performance. Examples of the types of topics that might be included are:

•  Ecological networks of MPAs
•  Coastal adaptation to climate change
•  Linking MPAs to wider ICM Programs
•  Guidelines for MPA management
•  Management of people and leadership
•  Conflict management
•  Proposal writing and fundraising strategies
•  Communications and presentations