Professional Training Services to Support Growth and Development
At CSS, we understand the unique communications challenges organizations face. From managing media scrutiny to responding during crises and building trust through digital channels, today’s leaders need tools and training to navigate a rapidly evolving landscape.
Our new Training Services offer hands-on, actionable guidance tailored to the demands of professionals across sectors. Whether you’re a public information officer, team lead, or executive decision-maker, our sessions equip you with the skills to communicate confidently and effectively, no matter the situation.
Media Training
Our interactive media training program is co-led by Kirsten Glavin, a former television news reporter and anchor, and Liz Kalaijian, an experienced municipal communications strategist. Together, they bring a combination of real-world media insight and deep understanding of public sector communications. We’ve structured our media training into three focused modules; each designed to build confidence and develop the skills necessary to successfully engage with the media:
Module 1: Introduction to Media Relations
- Understanding today’s media landscape
- Building productive relationships with reporters
- Developing clear messaging and key talking points
- Communicating with transparency and confidence
Module 2: Press Conferences & Interviews
- Preparing for scheduled and unscheduled press events
- Structuring effective press conferences
- Delivering impactful statements
- Handling difficult questions and staying on message during interviews
Module 3: Leading Through Crisis – Mastering the Message
- Communicating during emergencies & high-pressure situations
- Real-time message development and delivery
- Coordinating with public safety and partner agencies
- Managing media scrutiny with composure and credibility
Outreach Essentials
Social Media Best Practices for Municipal Agencies
Learn how to effectively use social media to inform, engage, and reassure your community. This training covers platform-specific strategies tailored for Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and others.
We’ll also review key principles of accessibility and ADA compliance, share best practices for community engagement, and offer tools for managing misinformation and responding to online crises with professionalism and care.
Decked Out: How to PowerPoint Like a Rockstar
Tired of slide overload, blurry visuals, and never-ending bullet points? Join us for a fast-paced, hands-on training where you’ll learn how to design PowerPoint decks that are crisp and impossible to ignore.
Whether you’re building executive briefings, project updates, or client proposals, this session is perfect for anyone who creates or reviews presentation slides.
September 23, 2025 | 9:00 AM EST
Crisis Communications Training
Crisis Communications Training
When emergencies strike, clear communication can save lives and strengthen public trust. Our training helps you prepare by covering crisis planning and coordinated messaging strategies.
We’ll walk through real-time media response protocols, introduce FEMA-aligned Incident Command System (ICS) and Joint Information System (JIS) concepts, and lead scenario-based drills tailored to the specific needs of your community.
Public Information Officer (PIO) Essentials
Whether you’re a designated Public Information Officer or simply wearing many hats, we’ll help you strengthen your communications role through clear guidance on core responsibilities and ethical considerations.
You’ll learn how to coordinate internal and external messaging, write and disseminate effective press releases and advisories, and navigate the complexities of interagency communication with confidence.
Behind the Guidance
Meet Our Instructors
Our trainings are led by a highly experienced team of instructors who bring real-world municipal, media, and communications expertise to every session:
Nichol Figueiredo
CEO
Nichol brings deep expertise in public engagement and a collaborative, solutions-driven approach to helping municipalities navigate complex projects. Under her leadership, Capital Strategic Solutions has become known for creative, community-focused strategies that drive impact.
Tom Impey
Senior Project Manager
A veteran public safety leader with extensive experience in emergency management, crisis response, and interagency coordination. Tom brings practical, field-tested knowledge to help municipal teams navigate high-pressure situations.
Paul Normandin
Senior Project Manager
A seasoned communications strategist with a strong background in public safety, media relations, government affairs, and municipal leadership. Paul specializes in helping public officials craft clear, effective messaging for both routine and crisis situations.
Kirsten Glavin
Senior Project Manager
A former television news reporter and anchor who offers insider perspectives on the media industry. Kirsten provides invaluable training in interacting with journalists, preparing interviews, and mastering press conference delivery.
Liz Kalaijian
Project Manager
An accomplished municipal communications professional with hands-on experience managing public information, social media, and outreach for local government. Liz helps municipal teams build proactive communication plans that inform and engage their communities.
Mike Tusino
Project Manager
With over a decade of experience in visual storytelling, graphic design, web and social media strategy, and community engagement, Mike provides practical guidance on accessible design, brand alignment, and digital compliance to help you connect with your audience clearly and effectively.
Flexible, Interactive, Hands-On Training
Our training programs are designed to be highly interactive, ensuring participants not only learn best practices but also apply them in real-world scenarios. At Capital Strategic Solutions, we understand that every organization has different needs and schedules. That’s why we offer multiple training delivery options.
- On-Site Training: Our experienced instructors will will conduct in-person training sessions, customized for your team.
- Virtual Training: We offer fully interactive sessions via Zoom, allowing your staff to receive high-quality training without the need of travel.
- Hybrid Options: When appropriate, we can combine in-person and virtual elements to maximize participation and minimize disruption to your operations.
No matter where your team is located, we make it easy to access professional and tailored training.
Not ready to commit? Start with a single session designed around your immediate questions or challenges.
CSS offers flexible, virtual coaching designed to support professionals across sectors—public, private, and nonprofit. Whether appointed, hired, or serving in a leadership role, participants can access expert guidance that fits their busy schedules and evolving responsibilities.