The Fast Track Program

Become a Professional Speaker!

Fast Track Program The speedy road to becoming a speaking professional.

The 2013 Program Guide will be posted by the end of July 31, 2012.

The CAPS Calgary Fast Track Program assists individuals who are committed to becoming professional speakers, workshop leaders, trainers, and facilitators. The program’s primary focus is on the business of speaking rather than improving speaking skills.

Elements of the program work together to provide a broad range of support, information and accountability to help you develop the key pieces required for a speaking business.

Schedule for 2012

(The 2013 schedule will be posted soon. In the meantime, the 2012 schedule will give you an idea of what to expect.)

Orientation

Wednesday, January 11, 2012: 6:00-9:30 pm – Meet and Program Orientation
Wednesday, January 18, 2012: 6:00-9:30 pm – Meet and Group Orientation

Whirlwind Saturdays

1. Whirl-Wind Saturdays run from 8:30 am with networking, followed by the 9:00 am CAPS Calgary Chapter meeting (free for Fast Track participants), lunch with your peer group and a professional advisor (included), plus the afternoon Learning Session, wrapping up by 5:00 pm.
2. Learning Sessions are crucial to your professional development. By completing Pre-Session Assignments, you’ll get maximum results from the program. Post-Session Assignments are to be completed on your own, with your peer group, or by requesting assistance from the committee.
• January 21, 2012: Grounding: Mission, Topic, Niche, Credibility, and Expertise
• February 18, 2012: Marketing, Core Message, and Draft One Sheet
• March 17, 2012:   Business Plan and Organizing
• April 21, 2012: Advanced Presentation Skills (Speak 3-4 minutes in front of small group of peers and CAPS members) combined with Topic Development, Research, and Structure
• May 12 2012: Second Level One Sheet/Website Basics
• June 16 2012: Sales
• Wednesday, June 20, 2012: Speaker Showcase and Celebration: This is a public showcase that draws the program to a close. The showcase is held one evening in June, typically on a Wednesday night, from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. Friends, family, colleagues and other supporters are encouraged to attend to see you shine! Participants receive valuable feedback from CAPS Calgary professional members.

Other key information

1. Professional Advisors are senior CAPS members who provide expert information. We encourage you to take advantage of these seasoned speakers’ wisdom and experience.
2. Work Groups meet regularly. Mutual support provides shared ideas, information, encouragement, connections, and accountability.
3. Administration, Monitoring, and Support keep participants on track. The program’s committee is available for support and direction as needed. The committee provides structure and makes arrangements for orientation evenings, afternoons of rich learning, and an evening showcase.
4. Accountability is an important program feature. You’re expected to keep agreements with your peer group, the Professional Advisors, the program coordinators, and CAPS Calgary.
5. Adaptable Learning. No matter what your current knowledge or skill level, the sessions are designed to provide maximum insight and flexibility.

2013 Application Form

Click here for the 2013 Fast Track Program application form

Non-refundable Application Fee

All applicants (who are not members of CAPS) are required to pay a $49.00 CAD application fee.  This non-refundable fee must accompany your online application. Only applications that are accompanied by the application fee will be considered. Paying this fee does not guarantee acceptance into the program.

2013 CAPS Calgary Fast Track Fees

If your application is approved by the Selection Committee, please pay by the deadlines described below.

Early Bird Fee

Pay early and save! The Early Bird rate ends October 22, 2012 at midnight.

Early Bird Payment Options

CAPS Member $699.00 Non-member $869.00 Full-Time Student (with ID) $469.00 Downpayment ONLY $50.00

Commonly Asked Questions

What’s Included with My Fee?

Program fees include:

• Two evening Orientation sessions
• Six CAPS Saturday morning meetings (a $330.00 value)
• Six afternoon learning sessions
• Six lunches with Professional Speaking Advisors
• An electronic copy of the Fast Track Program Manual
• Speaker Showcase and Celebration
• Informed feedback, support, guidance and encouragement

What is the Refund Policy?

If you withdraw before December 15, 2012, we will refund 50% of your paid Program Fees (less the $49 non-refundable application). There are no refunds after this date.

What Kind of Receipt do I Get?

You will receive a Calgary CAPS receipt for each payment you make. Your program fees may count as a  business expense.

As this is a non-credit, non-formal education program, we do not issue tax receipts.  Talk to your accountant regarding how this may apply to your particular situation.

For more information:  capsfasttrack@gmail.com

Get your copy of the CAPS Fast Track 2012 Program Guide.