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were added, bringing the total upward mobility positions to 22 in eight different organizations.  Five of the new positions were established in the Office of Plant Services, where three craftsmen graduated this past year.  Other positions established were three gardener trainees in horticultural services and a public information specialist trainee at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory.  Additionally, a female janitor has been enrolled in the National Zoo's upward mobility program for training as a journeyman painter.

The Smithsonian's past upward mobility efforts have been impeded by the lack of a comprehensive Institution-wide program and a uniform policy.  In November 1975, an Upward Mobility Coordinator was employed to develop and implement such a program.  As a result, a comprehensive guide has been developed and now awaits Civil Service Commission approval.

This comprehensive approach provides central coordination for the Upward Mobility Program, will allow for better utilization of the Institution's resources, and will have its most effective impact in the areas of planning and program development at the bureau  and major office levels.  Previously, upward mobility programs had been designed to maintain bureau autonomy and to meet the special needs of the organization, under a decentralized system.