2020 was a challenging year for ICCA and for our industry but throughout the discussions and interactions in the many forums, webinars and our Annual Congress, ICCA members expressed a strong wish for our association to continue its transformation and to lead and inspire innovation new business opportunities for members and the ICCA community, both now and in the future.
It is in that spirit of innovation we are delighted to share with you the launch of a ground-breaking business events industry initiative, ICCASkills, the ICCA certification programme.
Having identified the need to support the enhancement our industry's educational programmes, combining the extensive knowledge and passion of the ICCA community, we have developed ICCASkills to be at the forefront of global business events education.
ICCA is proud to be launching this certification programme for its membership and the industry to meet the challenges of the need for new business models, enhanced professionalism and standards in the industry. With courses beginning in the first quarter of 2022, ICCA will grant recognition to an industry professional who has met certain predetermined qualifications specified by the association. Certification will:
• Identify qualified professionals
• Ensure recognition of expertise
• Enhance credibility and prestige to individuals in the industry
• Provide a vehicle for professional development
The in-depth curriculum will be developed and delivered by industry experts, including inspirational business leaders, academics and ICCA members, delivered through on-site and online learning environments.
ICCASkills will commence in the first quarter of 2022, starting with Certified International Convention Specialist (CICS), designed for member employees aiming for their first management position and Certified International Convention Executive (CICE) created for managers with at least three years' experience.
CICS and CICE certification are marks of excellence and provides graduates with recognition of their expertise, enhances their credibility, and professional development opportunities.
ICCASkills will be guided by a diversified Certification Committee, including implementing standards, requirements and course content approval. An Academic Curriculum Sub-Committee comprising university representatives and ICCA members will support these activities to guarantee relevancy and rigour. GainingEdge, an ICCA member, has come forward to provide logistical and operational support during the initiative's preliminary phases. Other ICCA consultant members will be an integral part of the programme development.
Over the coming months, ICCA will be inviting members to contribute to the programme by submitting content and assisting in course delivery. Information on registration, fees, synopsis of courses, and assessment requirements will be available in September 2021.
We will update you regularly as this exciting initiative evolves.
Thank you to the ICCA community for the unwavering support in transforming our industry together.