Work

Lessons From the Field: Designing Professional Development for Military Family Practitioners

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Objective This article highlights lessons learned from OneOp's 2024 Military Family Readiness Academy (MFRA), a virtual learning series designed to equip practitioners across disciplines with skills to strengthen family well‐being. Background Family stressors are complex and require multidisciplinary professional development to help providers deliver holistic approaches to care. Given that military service uniquely shapes family life, it is essential for professionals to recognize and respond to the influence of military culture on family dynamics. Method A virtual learning series for practitioners supporting military‐connected communities was developed collaboratively across eight teams. The series included a 90‐min course, three 60‐min webinars, and a case story. Results The series fostered professional growth around the intersections of financial readiness and family resource management through targeted professional education, collaboration, and resource sharing. Conclusion Key lessons learned from delivering this interdisciplinary professional development program can inform future virtual learning initiatives aimed at expanding the capacity of providers supporting unique needs of military families and other specialized populations. Implications The design and implementation processes detailed in this article, along with the lessons learned throughout the series, offer practical considerations for developing effective, interdisciplinary professional development programs.

Source: Family Relations

DOI: 10.1111/fare.70271