January has a way of inviting reflection. It’s a natural pause point—a moment to reset, regroup, and remind ourselves why we do the work we do.
For those of us in background investigations, adjudications, and the oversight and support of these functions, our work is rooted in trust, responsibility, and care. Over time—through busy days, evolving requirements, and long careers—it’s easy to move on autopilot. That’s why gentle reminders of the basics matter. Continuing to learn isn’t a checkbox; it’s part of our professional journey.
In our industry, learning serves two important purposes:
1. It reinforces best practices
It is best to periodically revisit the core laws that shape modern background investigations and adjudications. It is a requirement that professionals document and participate in annual training related to confidentiality, IT, and cybersecurity awareness, and the protection of sensitive information. And for those who handle, submit, or review criminal history record information obtained from the FBI, participation in annual refresher training as an FBI Authorized Recipient is required.
2. It ensures compliance with requirements that exist to protect individuals, organizations, and the integrity of the process itself
Revisiting foundational laws and responsibilities helps us stay grounded in why these requirements exist—not just what they are. Staying current helps protect the people we serve, the decisions we make, and the organizations we represent.
As part of our annual reset, we are offering two essential trainings that reinforce key requirements and best practices:
- Confidentiality & Compliance Foundations Annual Training
This course covers PII protection and includes courtesy refreshers on FCRA and Indian Country laws that address background investigations and adjudication (PL 101-630, 25 CFR 63, PL 101-647, and Indian Country Law Enforcement)
- FBI Authorized Recipient Annual Training
This course meets annual refresher requirements for individuals who handle FBI criminal history information
Together, these trainings help reinforce fundamentals, support compliance, and set the tone for a strong year ahead.
Michele’s Tip for the Month
To help you start the year strong, both trainings will be available at a significant discounted rate for 30 days following this blog post.
This limited-time offering provides an opportunity to complete essential annual training early in the year—thoughtfully, efficiently, and affordably.
If you oversee, support, or perform background investigations or adjudications, or if you serve as an FBI Authorized Recipient, we invite you to take advantage of this opportunity and begin the year with a renewed commitment to learning, accountability, and professional excellence.