Free Seminars

Free Classes in HR, Audit, Leadership, AI, FM & More.

Beyond Checklists: Creative Thinking for Federal Auditors in the AI Era (Webinar)

Tue, Feb 24, 12–1pm ET Live Online

Auditing in 2026 is changing. Federal auditors are increasingly expected not only to ensure compliance, but also to provide deeper insight, anticipate emerging risks, and exercise stronger professional judgment—often in environments where AI tools are becoming more common. This webinar offers a practical, accessible introduction to creative thinking for auditors in the age of AI. Designed for U.S. federal auditors from early-career to experienced professionals, the session explores how creative thinking can strengthen audit planning, risk assessment, and evidence evaluation while remaining fully aligned with Yellow Book principles. The webinar also examines how AI can be used as a collaborative analytical tool to expand perspective and efficiency—without replacing auditor judgment. Through structured techniques and real-world examples, participants will learn how to move beyond routine approaches, challenge assumptions, and add greater value to their agencies and stakeholders. Whether you are new to creative thinking frameworks or new to AI in the workplace, this session will help you think smarter, ask better questions, and innovate responsibly in your audits. Key Takeaways Understand what creative thinking means in an audit context, why it matters, and how it complements traditional audit rigor. Learn how creative thinking strengthens risk assessment, audit design, and professional judgment in federal audits. Explore how to use AI as a thoughtful analytical partner while avoiding common pitfalls such as bias and overreliance. Apply structured creative-thinking techniques immediately to audit planning and evidence evaluation. Shift from a checklist-driven approach to an insight-focused mindset that enhances audit impact.

Al for Project Management: Opportunities, Limits, and Best Practices (Webinar)

Thu, Feb 26, 12–1pm ET Live Online

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly changing how work gets done, but many federal project managers are left wondering what AI actually means for their day-to-day responsibilities. This live webinar provides a clear, practical introduction to AI for project management in the federal workplace. Designed specifically for federal employees, the session focuses on how AI tools can support common project activities such as planning, risk analysis, scheduling, reporting, and stakeholder communication, while staying mindful of ethical, security, and compliance requirements. Participants will explore real-world, government-relevant examples of AI use, gain clarity on what AI can and cannot do, and learn how to think critically about using AI responsibly in project environments. This webinar also serves as an introduction to a deeper course on AI for Project Management, where participants build hands-on skills and practical workflows aligned to federal realities. Key Takeaways Explain how AI is being used today in project management Differentiate between AI types Recognize ethical, security, and compliance considerations associated with AI use Assess where AI can responsibly support, not replace, human judgment in managing projects

21st Century Leadership: Certificate Programs for Federal Leaders

Tue, Mar 3, 12–1pm ET Live Online

The demand for qualified leaders in the federal government is greater than ever. Our carefully curated Leadership Certificate Series encourages accelerated learning with immediate opportunities to apply enhanced skills in change management, decision-making, leveraging technology, building effective teams, and more. Each program includes five courses focused on topics tailored to specific leadership levels, and all align with OPM’s Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs). Three distinct levels ensure your agency has a program designed for every stage of career development. Three Levels of Leadership Certificate Programs Emerging Leader Certificate Program: Designed for employees endorsed for future leadership or proactive professionals preparing for advancement. New/Current Leader Certificate Program: Ideal for individuals recently promoted or serving in a leadership role for five years or less. Experienced Leader Certificate Program: Best suited for leaders who have held formal authority positions for five years or more. This live webinar provides a clear overview of all three certificate levels and how they build the leadership competencies federal employees need to advance their careers. Key Takeaways Explore flexible options to take the next step in your leadership journey. Develop critical skills and strengthen your federal career by earning a leadership certificate. Differentiate between the three certificate levels and determine which is right for you.

AI Agents Explained: Building Intelligent, No-Code Workflows (Webinar)

Thu, Mar 5, 12–1pm ET Live Online

Talk of AI “agents” is showing up everywhere – but what exactly do they do, and where should humans stay in control? This engaging, introductory webinar on AI agents for government workflows breaks down complex concepts in plain language. You’ll discover how AI agents can automate repetitive processes, enhance service delivery, and support decision-making without replacing staff or making unchecked choices. Through practical public sector examples, participants will learn to design responsible, human-centered, no-code AI workflows with clear boundaries and oversight. Key Takeaways: Learn how no-code AI agents can streamline data entry, tracking, and routine communications. See real government use cases where AI agents enhance efficiency without compromising oversight. Understand when automation should stop and human input should step in. Gain a blueprint for designing AI workflows that are transparent, safe, and well-governed. Build confidence in balancing innovation with accountability in AI-assisted public service.

The Federal Grants Management Landscape: From Program Design to Audit Defense (Webinar)

Thu, Mar 12, 12–1pm ET Live Online

This seminar provides a comprehensive, high-level view of the federal grants management landscape, examining how decisions made across the full grant lifecycle—from program design and pre-award risk assessment through post-award monitoring and audit response—collectively determine success or failure. Participants gain clarity on how federal requirements, oversight expectations, and practical realities intersect, and why breakdowns often occur between policy intent and operational execution. The session is designed to help agencies, pass-through entities, and recipients understand where risk emerges, how accountability is evaluated, and how disciplined grants management practices support both compliance and mission outcomes. Key Takeaways Gain a clear, end-to-end understanding of how decisions across the federal grant lifecycle affect compliance, risk exposure, and program success. Learn how federal statutes, regulations, and agency guidance translate into real-world grants management and oversight expectations. Identify common points where risk emerges in grants administration and understand how early decisions influence downstream monitoring and audit outcomes. Understand how accountability is assessed across federal agencies, pass-through entities, and recipients. Recognize why strong documentation, internal controls, and risk-based decision-making are critical to defensible and effective grants management.

Federal HR 360: Connecting Staffing, Pay, SCDs, and Compliance for Strategic Impact

Tue, Mar 24, 12–1pm ET Live Online

Federal HR work is often treated as transactional: process the action, set the pay, and issue the SF-50. In reality, every staffing decision triggers downstream consequences. Veterans’ preference affects pay. Pay affects Service Computation Dates (SCDs). SCDs influence leave accrual, retirement eligibility, reduction-in-force standing, and future promotions. One small error can create years of compliance risk, retroactive corrections, or audit findings. This live webinar introduces the HR 360 Framework, a practical model that connects staffing authority, pay setting, SCD computation, processing accuracy, and audit risk into one integrated decision-making approach. Participants will explore common error patterns, understand what triggers audit findings, and identify practical habits that reduce risk and increase confidence in federal HR operations. This webinar also introduces deeper training pathways in Processing Federal Personnel Actions, Veterans’ Preference, GS Pay Setting, Service Computation Date calculations, and Audit and Compliance, including AI Applications and Challenges for Auditors. Key Takeaways By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to: Identify common Veterans’ Preference errors and adjudication risks. Recognize how pay decisions affect SCDs and future rights. Differentiate between SCD types and their downstream impacts. Spot common SF-50 processing errors before they become audit findings. Apply the HR 360 Framework to reduce compliance and financial risk. Identify one immediate habit change to strengthen HR accuracy and risk management.

Plain Language and AI: Powering Effective Communication

Wed, Mar 25, 12–1pm ET Live Online

Federal professionals must be able to communicate clearly and effectively to lead teams and demonstrate strong supervisory, collaboration, decision-making, and change-management skills. AI can enhance your communication, but it cannot replace the critical thinking that powers clear writing. This live webinar will discuss how to use plain writing and AI to plan, organize, and develop documents that connect with audiences and deliver meaningful results. We will also highlight the suite of writing classes GSUSA offers, designed to strengthen federal employees’ communication skills. Key Takeaways Define plain writing, including how to use it and why it matters. Discuss the Plain Writing Act of 2010. Use language purposefully to organize information and connect with your reader. Evaluate your writing to ensure it is clear, coherent, and accurate. Understand how core competencies are rooted in strong communication skills. Apply AI tools to enhance writing and handle routine correspondence. Use AI tools to support clear, consistent communication.

Generative AI Solutions for Government Employees (Webinar)

Thu, Apr 2, 12–1pm ET Live Online

As government agencies and employees reflect on a challenging 2025, it's the perfect time to explore how generative AI can offer practical solutions for the future. Join Brian Simms, an AI instructor at Graduate School USA, for a timely webinar on Generative AI Solutions for Government Employees. In this one-hour session, you'll discover how AI-driven solutions can streamline your workload, improve efficiency, and make your everyday tasks easier as you move into the new year. After a year marked by disruptions like the government shutdown, many government employees are looking for ways to simplify their work and prepare for 2026. This webinar will highlight real-world applications of generative AI in government, from automating repetitive tasks to improving document creation and data analysis, helping you start the new year with fresh, more efficient workflows. You'll also gain insights into the ethical considerations and governance frameworks necessary for responsible AI adoption. Whether you’re ready to dive into AI or just looking to learn more, this session will help you unlock new ways to work smarter in 2026. Key Takeaways: Practical Solutions for Government Work: Learn how generative AI can help reduce workload and improve efficiency in tasks like document drafting, meeting summaries, and data analysis. Optimizing for the New Year: Understand how AI can help you and your agency streamline operations and set up for a more productive and successful 2026. Ethical and Responsible AI: Gain insights into the ethical issues surrounding AI in government and learn how to ensure compliance, security, and accountability in AI applications. Next Steps for Implementation: Discover practical steps for integrating AI solutions into your agency’s workflow and support your AI journey in 2026.

Generative AI Prompting for Government Work (Webinar)

Thu, Apr 30, 12–1pm ET Live Online

Not sure what to ask an AI or why your results feel inconsistent? This fast-paced, beginner-friendly webinar demystifies AI prompting for government professionals. You’ll learn how to communicate with AI tools clearly, effectively, and responsibly to streamline everyday tasks, improve writing quality, and boost productivity – all without needing technical expertise. Expect real-world government examples, plain-language guidance, and a few surprising moments where AI helps transform dry content into something more human and engaging. Key Takeaways: Understand how to use AI tools for everyday government writing tasks. Gain confidence in crafting precise prompts that deliver consistent, trustworthy results. Discover time-saving methods for rewriting or summarizing dense policy or procedural content. Learn a repeatable framework to get better AI responses with less trial and error. Walk away ready to use AI responsibly and effectively in your day-to-day work.

Artificial Intelligence: What Federal Contracting Professionals Need to Know

Thu, May 7, 12–1pm ET Live Online

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming federal acquisition, and many contracting professionals remain uncertain about how AI tools apply within federal compliance frameworks. This live webinar provides a practical, acquisition-focused introduction to Artificial Intelligence for federal contracting and project management professionals. The session explores how AI tools can support acquisition planning, requirements development, risk assessment, market research, document drafting, contract administration, and stakeholder communication while remaining compliant with FAR requirements, agency guidance, and information security standards. Participants will examine real-world federal use cases, understand the limitations of generative AI, and learn how to apply AI responsibly without substituting professional judgment, regulatory knowledge, or ethical decision-making. This session also serves as an introduction to GSUSA’s extended learning opportunity on AI-enabled federal project and acquisition workflows. Key Takeaways Identify practical AI applications in federal acquisition workflows. Use AI tools while remaining compliant with FAR and agency guidance. Recognize AI limitations and protect professional judgment. Improve efficiency in drafting, research, and contract administration.

CON 1100 and DAU Credential Alignment: Strengthening the Foundation for Contracting and COR Excellence

Thu, May 14, 12–1pm ET Live Online

As the federal acquisition workforce transitions to DAU’s credential-based model, foundational contracting education is more important than ever. This webinar introduces GSUSA’s CON 1100 course and explains how it aligns with DAU contracting foundational competencies while supporting broader credential pathways. Participants will also explore how strong contracting fundamentals enhance performance in DAU-credentialed Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) roles. While GSUSA’s COR course is already DAU credentialed, this session demonstrates how CON 1100 strengthens acquisition literacy, improves oversight effectiveness, and reduces risk across the acquisition lifecycle. In addition, attendees will receive an update on GSUSA’s continued expansion of its DAU-aligned contracting curriculum. Courses aligned to CON 1200, CON 1300, and CON 1400 are currently under development and will build progressive competencies across the acquisition lifecycle. These offerings will complement CON 1100 and GSUSA’s credentialed COR program to provide agencies with a structured, aligned training pathway from foundational contracting knowledge through advanced acquisition application. Key Takeaways Understand how CON 1100 aligns with DAU foundational contracting competencies and credential pathways. Recognize how contracting fundamentals strengthen performance in DAU-credentialed COR roles. Identify how improved acquisition literacy reduces risk and enhances oversight effectiveness. Learn how GSUSA’s expanding CON 1200–1400 offerings support a structured acquisition training pathway.

Past Recordings of Free Seminars

Storytelling with Data: Communicate Insights with Clarity and Impact (Webinar)

Broadcast on February 19, 2026

Spreadsheets and charts don’t speak for themselves, especially when your audience needs to make decisions quickly. Join Bruce Gay, an analytics and communication instructor at Graduate School USA, for a timely webinar where you’ll learn how storytelling with data can help you communicate your message more clearly using tools you already have: Microsoft Excel. Based on Graduate School USA’s Storytelling with Data Using Excel course, this session introduces practical techniques to turn raw data into visuals that are engaging, informative, and decision-ready. You’ll explore how to go beyond “default charts,” clarify what matters most, and present data in a way that strengthens your narrative and credibility. Whether you build reports, brief leadership, support program decisions, or present metrics to stakeholders, this webinar will help you improve the way you frame, visualize, and explain data-driven insights. Key Takeaways Tell a clear story (not just show numbers) by framing data with a message, context, and takeaway so your audience understands what matters. Build better Excel visuals by improving common chart types so visuals support your point instead of distracting from it. Make charts more persuasive by applying storytelling and design principles that strengthen analysis and decision-making. Communicate with confidence using tips you can apply immediately to briefings, dashboards, and presentations. Understand what the full course covers and how it strengthens real-world reporting and decision support.

Elevating Federal HR: From Transactional Doers to Strategic Value Creators (Webinar)

Broadcast on February 17, 2026

Are you an HR leader who feels stuck in administrative silos and is seeking ways to contribute at a higher level? Federal HR professionals operate under unique constraints, including OPM guidelines, merit system principles, and budget limitations. This webinar invites participants to explore how to move beyond these constraints while staying aligned with agency missions and navigating evolving federal workforce challenges such as talent retention, expanding missions, and digital transformation. Join Kristin Aurelia, an HR and Leadership instructor at Graduate School USA, for a webinar that focuses on positioning HR as a strategic partner in the federal government. HR professionals often balance complex regulations, compliance requirements, and mission-driven priorities. This session emphasizes a critical shift from routine “doing” (such as processing paperwork, managing recruitments, and ensuring compliance) to “being” a proactive leader who influences organizational strategy, fosters innovation, and delivers measurable value. Whether you are currently in an HR leadership role or emerging into one, this webinar will provide practical insight into how you can add strategic value through data-driven insights, talent strategy, and cross-functional partnerships—leading to stronger resource allocation and improved outcomes in government settings. Key Takeaways Understand the value of shifting from “doing” to “being” in order to remain relevant and become a strategic value creator. Recognize why cross-functional partnerships are critical to HR and organizational success. Explore emerging needs for strategic HR input amid shifting priorities, skill gaps, and policy challenges. Learn how to leverage tools such as analytics and AI to forecast workforce needs while maintaining the human touch.

Do You Need DITAP? FAC-C-DS Requirements for Digital Services (Webinar)

Broadcast on February 12, 2026

Buying digital services is different, and federal acquisition professionals are increasingly expected to lead procurements that support agile delivery, human-centered design (HCD), and faster modernization outcomes. Join Bruce Gay, an analytics and communications instructor at Graduate School USA, for an informational webinar that provides a clear, practical overview of the Digital IT Acquisition Professional (DITAP) training program—an immersive, cohort-based development experience designed to help acquisition professionals strengthen digital acquisition capabilities and earn the FAC-C-DS (Digital Services) credential. During the webinar, you will learn who DITAP is for, what the program experience looks like, the expected time commitment, and what you’ll be able to do differently after completion, especially when managing digital services contracting efforts that require deeper technical and vendor oversight skills. Whether you’re exploring DITAP for the first time or preparing to manage higher-impact digital services contracts, this session will help you understand the pathway, the expectations, and the practical benefits. Key Takeaways DITAP Made Simple: Learn what the Digital IT Acquisition Professional (DITAP) program is, why it exists, and how it supports stronger digital services acquisitions across government. Who Should Consider DITAP (and Why It Matters): Understand which federal roles benefit most from DITAP training, especially acquisition professionals supporting complex, higher-dollar digital services contracting efforts. What You’ll Actually Do in the Program: Get a clear picture of the DITAP experience, including cohort-based learning, hands-on assignments, and practical work products that build real acquisition confidence (not just theory). Practical Skills You Can Use Right Away: See how DITAP helps improve outcomes in market research, vendor evaluation, agile oversight, stakeholder engagement, and managing delivery risk. How to Plan for Success: Walk away with a clear understanding of expectations, time commitment, and how DITAP supports career growth and readiness for mission-critical digital programs.

Leading Change: Practical Change Management Skills for Federal Leaders (Webinar)

Broadcast on February 10, 2026

Change is no longer an occasional disruption—it is a constant reality in today’s federal workplace. From shifting priorities and policies to new technologies, reorganizations, and workforce transitions, federal employees are expected to adapt quickly while continuing to deliver mission-critical results. This interactive webinar introduces a practical, human-centered approach to change management for federal professionals. Participants will explore why people respond to change the way they do and what it takes to lead both yourself and others through uncertainty with confidence and clarity. This session provides actionable insights you can use immediately—whether you are a supervisor, team lead, project manager, or aspiring leader. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how to navigate change effectively in today’s evolving federal environment and prepare themselves and their teams for what comes next. Key Takeaways Recognize common human reactions to change, including resistance, fatigue, and uncertainty, and learn how these show up in federal work environments. Apply practical strategies to lead yourself through uncertainty, stress, and ambiguity while maintaining performance and credibility. Use proven techniques to lead others through change, building trust, engagement, and resilience across teams.

Generative AI Prompting for Government Work (Webinar)

Broadcast on February 5, 2026

Not sure what to ask an AI or why your results feel inconsistent? This fast-paced, beginner-friendly webinar demystifies AI prompting for government professionals. You’ll learn how to communicate with AI tools clearly, effectively, and responsibly to streamline everyday tasks, improve writing quality, and boost productivity – all without needing technical expertise. Expect real-world government examples, plain-language guidance, and a few surprising moments where AI helps transform dry content into something more human and engaging. Key Takeaways: Understand how to use AI tools for everyday government writing tasks. Gain confidence in crafting precise prompts that deliver consistent, trustworthy results. Discover time-saving methods for rewriting or summarizing dense policy or procedural content. Learn a repeatable framework to get better AI responses with less trial and error. Walk away ready to use AI responsibly and effectively in your day-to-day work.

What’s New in Federal Retirement & Benefits for 2026: Training Updates & Learning Paths (Webinar)

Broadcast on February 3, 2026

In a rapidly changing federal environment, Graduate School USA remains committed to delivering up-to-date curriculum that reflects the current state of the federal workforce. Retirement and benefits policies and procedures continue to evolve, and Graduate School USA has evolved alongside them. Our courses have been revised to reflect recent changes in retirement and benefits processing, including the implementation of OPM’s Online Retirement Application (ORA) in 2025. These updated offerings help participants understand the new electronic processes and the steps required to navigate them effectively. We also reviewed feedback from previous student evaluations to strengthen classroom instruction in areas identified as high-value learning needs. This includes new courses that highlight the interaction between federal benefits programs, Social Security, the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and other benefits programs, helping participants better understand how these systems align for employees who contribute to them. These courses support the development of HR specialists involved in the retirement application process and provide practical instruction for HR Administrators at all levels. Key Takeaways Awareness of new and redesigned retirement and benefits parent courses. Understanding of how curriculum updates support improved retirement processing accuracy and more effective benefits counseling. Knowledge of available virtual, graduate-level learning options. Insight into how Graduate School USA courses support HR Administrators at all levels.

Generative AI Solutions for Government Employees (Webinar)

Broadcast on December 19, 2025

As government agencies and employees reflect on a challenging 2025, it's the perfect time to explore how generative AI can offer practical solutions for the future. Join Brian Simms, an AI instructor at Graduate School USA, for a timely webinar on Generative AI Solutions for Government Employees. In this one-hour session, you'll discover how AI-driven solutions can streamline your workload, improve efficiency, and make your everyday tasks easier as you move into the new year. After a year marked by disruptions like the government shutdown, many government employees are looking for ways to simplify their work and prepare for 2026. This webinar will highlight real-world applications of generative AI in government, from automating repetitive tasks to improving document creation and data analysis, helping you start the new year with fresh, more efficient workflows. You'll also gain insights into the ethical considerations and governance frameworks necessary for responsible AI adoption. Whether you’re ready to dive into AI or just looking to learn more, this session will help you unlock new ways to work smarter in 2026. Key Takeaways: Practical Solutions for Government Work: Learn how generative AI can help reduce workload and improve efficiency in tasks like document drafting, meeting summaries, and data analysis. Optimizing for the New Year: Understand how AI can help you and your agency streamline operations and set up for a more productive and successful 2026. Ethical and Responsible AI: Gain insights into the ethical issues surrounding AI in government and learn how to ensure compliance, security, and accountability in AI applications. Next Steps for Implementation: Discover practical steps for integrating AI solutions into your agency’s workflow and support your AI journey in 2026.

Understanding Your Rights: A Guide for Federal Employees (Webinar)

Broadcast on September 16, 2025

This webinar offers a practical overview of federal employees' rights and protections. Shifting and sudden changes in workforce dynamics, often driven by reduction in force, can create significant hurdles and uncertainties. To navigate these changes effectively, you’re invited to attend a no-cost webinar offering essential insights.Key TopicsOverview of Federal Employee RightsThe Importance of Due Process and Adverse ActionsManagement and Bargaining Unit RightsThis presentation is designed to empower federal employees to navigate complex workplace scenarios.

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I never realized how much it (NLP) taught me and helped me grow professionally. It (NLP) taught me so much about working with employees and how to handle, let’s say “problem ones.” The contacts from the program have also benefited me in many ways.

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