Human Resources

• Human Resources Links
  • Benefits
  • Forms
  • Holiday Calendar
  • Payroll
  • Payroll Calendar
  • Training & Professional Development
  • Training Lab Calendar
• Employment
  • E-recruiting
  • Commitment to Diversity
• Employee Relations
  • Blue Ribbon Award Winners
    
  • Employee Relations Advisory Board
  • Employee Relations Committee
  • Exempt Staff Council
• Integrated R/3 Information System (IRIS)
• Mission Statement
• University Policies
• Workers' Compensation

• Human Resources Staff
• HR Home
• UTC Home

Office of Human Resources
207 Race Hall
Dept 3603
615 McCallie Avenue
Chattanooga, TN 37403

(423) 425-4221
(423) 425-4574 fax
Office Hours:
Monday through Friday
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Home / Human Resources / HR128 FAQ...

HR 128 FAQ’s

1. What is HR 128?

HR 128 is the Human Resources Policy, strongly encouraging every employee at the University of Tennessee to complete a minimum of 32 hours of job- and career-related training per calendar year. HR 128 applies to exempt and non-exempt employees, regular, full and part time. The training requirement for part-time employees may be prorated.

Supervisors will be evaluated through the performance review process on the professional growth and development of their employees. The training for individual employees should be planned during the performance review.

2. Why is there a minimum number of 32 hours of training?

The 32 hours is the minimum requirement. For the purposes of career growth and of meeting departmental goals, employees may take more than the 32 hours if approved by their supervisor.

3. Do required training classes count toward the minimum?

Yes, required training courses, including safety classes, count toward the minimum. Supervisors and employees should plan for training during the performance review process. The 32 hours is a minimum, and employees are encouraged to complete what they need to achieve growth for themselves and their departments.

4. What types of classes count toward the 32 hours?

Many opportunities are available: (1) professional development courses; (2) conferences and seminars; (3) e-learning classes; (4) training held within departments; (5) training provided by outside consultants and vendors; and (6) computer classes.

5. How do I enroll in e-learning classes?

These classes are free and may be taken online. UT has partnered with SmartForce to offer the highest quality in on-line learning. More than 800 courses are available, including computer and technical courses; leadership, managerial and supervisory classes; and safety classes. Accessing e-learning classes from UT requires a NetID. Contact the Help Desk at 425-4000 for help in obtaining your Net ID.

6. Is my supervisor’s approval required to attend training classes?

It is expected that supervisors will support your training. The employee and the supervisor should plan the training together.

7. What if my supervisor doesn’t allow me to attend training?

Find out why your supervisor doesn’t support your training. Your professional development should be addressed during your annual performance review. At that time, determine what your supervisor considers appropriate professional development for your position. If a disagreement exists as to what constitutes appropriate training, you should confer with the Office of Human Resources regarding options to pursue to resolve such a disagreement and to facilitate professional development as encouraged by HR 128.

8. Does the training have to be job related?

The training should relate to your present position or should enhance your skills for future job growth.

9. Will the Career Development Fund assist in paying for training?

Yes, the career development fund, which is a reimbursement fund for non-exempt staff members, may help pay for classes in certain situations. Nevertheless, departments are expected to budget for training during the annual budgeting process. If the department cannot pay for training, the employee must request funding before the event. The maximum reimbursement for an employee during the fiscal year is $265. (Reimbursement is limited to fund availability.) To fill out an application and to see the guidelines, visit the website.

10. Do classes offered outside the university count toward my 32 hours?

With supervisor’s approval, classes both within and outside the university will count toward your 32 hours. Conferences attended will also count. To receive credit for classes taken outside the university, you will fill out the interactive form “Request for Additional Credit."  Once this form is completed, send it to the Human Resources office for entering into the IRIS data base.

11. How will HR 128 fit into my annual performance review?
During your annual performance review, you and your supervisor should discuss your training needs. A training plan should be developed to ensure you achieve 32 hours of training.

12. If I have a question about training classes or HR 128, whom may I contact?

Phone the Office of Human Resources for more information.