The Certified Corporate Wellness Specialist (CCWS) program is an innovative program that brings together leaders in corporate wellness to train business leaders and employers in the art of building a happy, healthy, and resilient workforce. The CCWS program brings a new perspective to workplace wellness and helps business leaders see wellness from the eyes of the employees.
Michael Brantley, Director of Recruiting Operations for the Army ROTC Program at San Diego State University, in this interview with the Corporate Wellness Magazine, shares his experience in the Certified Corporate Wellness Specialist Program and how the certification has expanded his knowledge of the industry.
How important is well-being to you personally?
Well-being has been a part of my professional and personal growth, and my transitions in life, such as leaving the military to enter the private sector. It has been a part of my educational journey and has been a permanent fixture in my life and will continue to be.
What change have you noticed over the last year with corporate wellness?
I believe that there’s more awareness, both physically and mentally. While the pandemic was years ago, there’s still some carryover. Overall, wellness has become a more crucial component in the workplace.
Where do you see the industry headed?
It’s honestly hard to tell. While organizational Wellness Programs are more common in the workplace, there’s still some struggles in overall “buy-in”. However, more organizations are working to incorporate wellness into their culture!
What are the most important focus areas for you in corporate wellness for the upcoming year?
Accessibility. While many companies are “getting back to work” in the office, others still have remote/ telework options. I think that a holistic approach that can accommodate both virtual and onsite employee needs through more engagement and support should be the focus.
If you could give our readers one piece of advice regarding wellness programs, what would it be?
Implementing a wellness program that centers around employee's needs. We need to listen to employees! The goal is to keep your employees engaged in these programs and create an environment where they will be happy and can benefit from them
Why did you go through the CCWS program?
I went through the program because I have a general passion for employee wellness. I was able to add this certification to my Certified Wellness Program Coordinator (CWPC) and my Certified Personal Trainer certification to create a more diversified background or experience. Taking this course has enhanced my knowledge and provided me with the additional skills to share ideas on programs implemented in the workplace.
What was the most valuable takeaway of the CCWS program for you?
It is the constant ability to learn more! In some cases, you complete a certification and revisit it once it’s time to renew it. But with the CCWS, I have access to a vast range of training and other resources! The learning never stops!
