Communications Professional Development Program (CPDP)

The Communications Professional Development Program (CPDP) is a leadership development program designed to create a resource of talented communication professionals that will one day serve as leaders in Caterpillar communications. This next generation of professionals will focus on developing the consulting, leadership and strategic skills needed to be a leader in communications.

Program Goals

• Build a resource pool of talented communication professionals
• Present challenging work assignments
• Create broad exposure to corporate communications
• Develop both an enterprise and business unit perspective
• Provide mentoring opportunities
• Establish a network of communications and HR contacts

Sessions

The CPDP is a three-year development program. The program allows participants to spend one 18-month rotation in Corporate Public Affairs and another 18-month rotation in business unit communications. Each job rotation is spent getting acquainted with the roles and responsibilities associated with their position as a communication professional. These assignments are made with input from the professional.

The Role of a CPDP

Professionals are encouraged to become distinguished consultants. We applaud thought leadership and strategic thinking and provide opportunities for our professionals to engage and fine-tune these skills. Other areas of emphasis include learning the corporate culture and understanding how to create appropriate communication messages.

Customized Learning Plan

It's essential for Caterpillar communicators to understand the processes and standards in place to communicate major initiatives to a variety of audiences. CPDPs participate in a variety of learning opportunities to create clarity and consistency among communications.

Career Development

Once the three-year development assignment is complete, individuals are then placed into a succeeding position that will continue to develop their skills. As a communication professional, individuals are coached on opportunities for career development. In addition, the company plays an active role managing a career path for our professionals. 

Eligibility Requirements

• Minimum GPA - 2.8 on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor's degree in advertising, communications, English, journalism, marketing, organizational communications public relations or related field
• Willingness to relocate globally
• Strong communication skills (both written and verbal)
• Communication internship or job-related experience
• Graduated with last 18 months

Salary and Benefits

Communication professionals are full time Caterpillar employees with applicable salary and benefits.