Calling all NEW public procurement professionals!

We want YOU to join the New York State Association of Purchasing Officials’ (NY SAMPO) Emerging Professionals Program, designed to empower and equip young talents with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their careers. This initiative has not only enriched the professional landscape but has also garnered acclaim for its forward-thinking approach.

OUR MISSION:

The Emerging Professionals Program aims to shape the future of our industry by supporting the growth of new purchasing professionals employed by public entities of New York State. Our program creates opportunities for new public procurement professionals to build relationships, expand their skills, and advance their careers while continuing to promote ethics of the profession, public trust, and applicable laws and procedures.

OUR GOAL:

Create a pipeline for future leaders by engaging and developing emerging professionals within the public purchasing industry and encouraging their involvement within NY SAMPO and the procurement industry community.

PROGRAM BENEFITS

• Networking opportunities within the public procurement community.
• Skill development through Pro(D) class/event offerings, mentorship, and professional guidance.
• Career advancement support and opportunities for leadership roles.
• Promotion of ethical practices, public trust, and adherence to relevant laws and procedures.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO JOIN?

To be eligible for participation in the Emerging Professionals Program, individuals must meet the following criteria:

1. Active NY SAMPO Member: Participants must maintain active membership in NY SAMPO to engage in the Emerging Professionals Program.
2. Relatively “New” to Public Procurement: Individuals with five (5) years or less of experience in the public procurement field are eligible for the program. The acceptance of members with more than five (5) years of experience in the public procurement field may be allowable in the program on a case-by-case basis.
3. Employed as a Procurement Professional within a Public Entity in New York State: Participants must be currently employed as procurement professionals within public entities in New York State.

EVENTS AND EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES:

Take part in exclusive events to help foster your career growth!

• Join our recurring Emerging Professionals Program Roundtable Discussions, where you will be given the opportunity to exchange ideas and knowledge with seasoned procurement professionals. Check out our events calendar to see when they are held (can join virtually or in person).
• Attend networking/social events, where Emerging Professionals can informally meet other program participants and other NY SAMPO members.
• Apply for the Mentorship Program, where Emerging Professionals will be assigned a professional mentor (seasoned NY SAMPO member) in the interest of furthering professional development, career advancement, and purchasing skills. (Applications for the 2025 Mentorship Program are closed; check back in at the end of the year for our 2026 Program!)
• Join our Mailing List to receive exclusive program updates, announcements, and career development opportunities.

Are you an Emerging Professional who wants to further develop your leadership qualities, purchasing skills, and professional relationships? Sign up for our Emerging Professionals Program mailing list below!