Meliora Leadership

Train Now

Certified Trainer Requirements

MLI Certified Trainer Certification Application Requirements

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Have a minimum of two years of professional experience in early childhood education or a related field.
  • Hold a current state-issued staff credential, CDA, FCCPC, ECPC, associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or higher in a related field (recommended but not required depending on pathway).
  • Demonstrate a commitment to professional growth and ethical conduct.

Required Application Documents

1. Completed Online Application

Submit a fully completed MLI Certified Trainer Application.

2. Professional Resume

Provide a current resume highlighting:

  • Education
  • Professional experience
  • Leadership roles
  • Training, coaching, or mentoring experience
  • Professional memberships and certifications

3. Statement of Interest

Submit a one-page statement describing:

  • Why you want to become a trainer
  • Your areas of expertise
  • The audiences you plan to serve
  • Your professional goals

4. Professional Recommendations

Submit two professional references from:

  • Program directors
  • Administrators
  • Coaches
  • Trainers
  • Supervisors
  • Higher education faculty

References should attest to the applicant’s:

  • Professionalism
  • Communication skills
  • Leadership abilities
  • Content knowledge

5. Education Documentation

Provide copies of:

  • Diplomas
  • Transcripts
  • Professional credentials
  • State-issued certificates

6. Professional Development Record

Submit evidence of completed professional development within the last three years, such as:

  • Training certificates
  • Conference attendance
  • Coaching certifications
  • Leadership training

Certification Completion Requirements

To earn the MLI Certified Trainer designation, participants must successfully:

  • Complete all 15 hours of required training.
  • Participate in discussions and learning activities.
  • Develop a training plan.
  • Create participant materials or resources.
  • Submit a training presentation.
  • Deliver a 15-minute training demonstration.
  • Receive a satisfactory evaluation from MLI reviewers.
  • Agree to abide by the MLI Trainer Code of Ethics.

Portfolio Requirements

Participants should submit a Trainer Portfolio containing:

  • Professional resume
  • Statement of interest
  • Training philosophy
  • Training plan
  • Learning objectives
  • PowerPoint or training materials
  • Participant handouts
  • Reflection on trainer growth
  • Training demonstration recording (if virtual)

Certification Renewal (Recommended)

To maintain the MLI Certified Trainer credential:

  • Renew every three years.
  • Complete 15 hours of professional development related to adult learning, training, leadership, coaching, or facilitation.
  • Deliver at least two professional development sessions during the renewal period.
  • Adhere to the MLI Code of Ethics.

This structure positions the MLI Certified Trainer as a professional credential that goes beyond simply attending a course and demonstrates competency in designing and delivering high-quality professional development for adult learners in early childhood education.