“Building Stronger Associations” Through THC Staff Development
In its Oct. 2009 issue, Associations Now magazine cites the many benefits of certification programs—“it can help members better position themselves in a competitive marketplace,” says the magazine. “It can establish performance standards, and it can elevate a profession.”
The THC team is familiar with helping associations implement, manage and reap the benefits of certification programs to create metrics of credibility and excellence in any industry. In an example of THC’s dedication to continued excellence in client service, 11 members of the THC staff are pursuing association management industry credentials of their own. That credentialing can “elevate a profession” fits right in with THC’s mission—Building Stronger Associations.
Ten members of the staff are pursuing their Certified Association Executive credential, and a tenth THC team member is working toward the Certified Meeting Professional credential. Colleen Ayers, Amber Bahn, Amanda Bartel, Taryn Gamble, Corinna Hastings, Kari Heltemes, Gretchen Huetteman, Julia Kloehn, David Krejci and Karen Wesloh (who has already obtained her CMP) are participating in the American Society of Association Executives’ CAE program, and Juli Wagner is earning the Convention Industry Council’s CMP credential. Joining Wesloh as a currently credentialed THC team member is Tony LeClerc, who holds both a CAE and CMP.
About the Certified Association Executive Program
The Certified Association Executive (CAE) program is designed to elevate professional standards, enhance individual performance, and designate association professionals who demonstrate the knowledge essential to the practice of association management. Founded in 1960, the CAE program stands as a mark of excellence and has evolved to reflect what it takes to manage an association in today's challenging climate.
Earning and maintaining the CAE is a three-part process. Candidates must first meet eligibility requirements and submit an application. The next step is to sit for and pass the CAE exam. Once a candidate has earned the credential they must maintain it by fulfilling certification renewal requirements every three years.
About the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) Program
The Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) program recognizes individuals who have achieved the industry's highest standard of professionalism.
Through the CMP program, individuals who are employed in meeting management pursue continuing education, increase their industry involvement, and gain industry-wide recognition. The requirements for certification are based on professional experience and a written examination. Currently, over 13,000 individuals in 35 countries and territories have earned the CMP designation.