U.S. Department of Defense recognizes IAS personnel certification body accreditation

This accreditation provides a global benchmark for personnel certification organizations that work with DOD

Brea, Calif. – The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) now recognizes the International Accreditation Service’s (IAS’s) Personnel Certification Bodies Accreditation Program under its Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) program, a joint initiative of the U.S. Air Force, Army, Marine Corps and Navy. IAS accreditation provides a global benchmark for personnel certification organizations to operate in a consistent, comparable and reliable manner worldwide by ensuring that they meet the requirements in ISO/IEC Standard 17024, Conformity Assessment—General Requirements for Bodies Operating Certifications for Persons.

COOL began as part of a joint-service initiative to promote civilian credentialing opportunities for military service members and later expanded to include civilian personnel. This program helps service members find information on certifications and licenses related to their jobs. Occupational credentials play an important role in professionalizing the force and in enhancing service members’ ability to transition to the civilian workforce upon completion of military service. The four services share data, research, analysis and best practices so that all service members can benefit from credentialing opportunities.

IAS-accredited personnel certification bodies benefit from the organization’s recognition as a Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MLA) signatory with the Pacific Accreditation Cooperation (PAC). The IAS signatory status means accredited personnel certification bodies are also recognized worldwide by countries that are members of PAC.

“As an internationally-recognized provider of accreditation services to personnel certification bodies, we are proud of this DOD recognition, which will help us better serve those who have honored us through their service in the U.S. Armed Forces, and to encourage excellence in the next generation of the U.S. workforce,” said IAS President Chuck Ramani.

In addition to the IAS accreditation program, the International Code Council and its subsidiaries actively support DOD, U.S. servicemembers and veterans through certification opportunities and a partnership with the Society of American Military Engineers. The Code Council is also leading a new initiative, the ICC Military Families Building Career Path Program, to help veterans who are transitioning to civilian life and their family members learn more about building safety career options.