Professional Development
Professional Development is a core pillar of OACB’s work to support Ohio’s county boards of developmental disabilities. We equip board members, staff, and partners with the knowledge, skills, and leadership development needed to serve people with developmental disabilities in their communities effectively.
OACB offers a range of learning opportunities—including statewide conferences, leadership development programs, regional and on-site trainings, and online courses—designed to meet professionals at every stage of their careers.
Learning Series
The OACB 2027 Learning Series is a new approach to professional development that replaces the traditional Spring Conference with a series of focused, stand-alone learning events held throughout the year. Designed to provide flexible, affordable, and topic-specific training, each session will feature expert presenters, opportunities for networking and collaboration, and hands-on learning experiences tailored to the needs of county board professionals. Developed in response to member feedback, the Learning Series allows attendees to engage in meaningful in-person learning while reducing travel costs and time away from work.
Annual Convention
The OACB Annual Convention is held every fall in Columbus. This three-day event brings together county board members and staff from across Ohio for professional development, networking, and collaboration.
The Convention features keynote speakers on Wednesday and Thursday, more than 40 breakout sessions across at least 10 professional tracks, and general sessions on Friday. Attendees can explore a wide range of topics, share best practices, and learn new strategies to support people with developmental disabilities.
The event also includes the Annual Awards program on Thursday evening, recognizing excellence across Ohio’s DD system. As OACB’s premier professional development event, the Convention draws more than 1,000 attendees each year.
Executive Development Program
The OACB Executive Development Program (EDP) is designed for professionals pursuing leadership roles within Ohio’s developmental disabilities service delivery system, as well as those committed to strengthening services and supports for people with developmental disabilities.
Offered biennially in even-numbered years, the program provides a structured, cohort-based learning experience that combines in-person instruction, applied learning, and peer collaboration. Participants engage in a series of multi-day sessions held in Columbus, along with additional learning opportunities throughout the year.
Capstone Projects
A central component of the program is the group capstone project, which participants complete over the course of the program. Teams focus on one of the most pressing challenges affecting the system's sustainability and develop practical, forward-thinking solutions. Each group presents its work to peers and guests near the conclusion of the program. Successful completion of the capstone project is required for graduation.
Superintendent Leadership Add-on Track
Participants interested in advancing to superintendent roles may opt into an additional leadership track. This add-on includes a series of virtual sessions, as well as an optional leadership shadowing experience. Developed in partnership with the Ohio Superintendents of County Boards of DD, this track supports participants working toward superintendent certification.
Continuing Education and Certification
The Executive Development Program meets criteria established by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities for Continuing Professional Development Units (CPDUs). Completion of the full program also satisfies the advanced curriculum requirements for administrators, as outlined in Ohio Administrative Code 5123-5-03 (Superintendent Certification Standards).
SSA Summer Series
The SSA Summer Series is a four week long virtual professional development program for Service and Support Administrators (SSAs). Sessions provide opportunities for SSAs to deepen their knowledge of relevant topics, strengthen their skills, and best practices in supporting people with developmental disabilities. This program meets the criteria established by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) for Continuing Professional Development Units (CPDUs).