Teaching Credential Guidelines

Being an ACA is NOT the end. It’s just the beginning! A while back, I shared how ICAN members could benefit from the ICAN x CPA MOU. Many ACAs reached out, eager to explore the opportunity—only for most to realize they weren’t even eligible! Not because of when they got inducted, but because they weren’t compliant with ICAN’s basic requirements. Now, ICAN has of last month issued another reminder: Reiterating that "Access to ANY Institute service or grant is strictly for members who meet certain eligibility criteria" To qualify, you must: ✔ Be financially up to date (all outstanding dues must be paid). ✔ Maintain good professional conduct (no pending cases with the Investigative Panel or Disciplinary Tribunal). ✔ Fulfill the updated Minimum Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) requirements. Without these, you cannot access: ❌ Transcripts issuance ❌ Practice Licence (Fresh or Renewal) ❌ Letter of Good Standing ❌ PhD Research Grant ❌ Professorial Inaugural Lecture Grant ❌ Fellowship Conferment ❌ Technical Assistance ❌ Benevolent Fund ❌ Death Benefit ❌ Other Institute-related services And here’s the big one—you need 110 MCPD credits before ICAN will even process your transcript! Yet, many ACAs don’t even have 5 credit points, not to talk of 110. Some don’t pay their yearly dues. Some don’t even bother with MCPD. Then, when it’s time for Fellowship conferment, or when they need a letter of good standing for an international opportunity, that’s when they realize they are not even eligible! Imagine waiting for years just to clock the due date for the almighty fellowship conferment (FCA) , only to be sidelined because of not being in compliance with these basic requirements. And you can’t even use the excuse, “I don’t have money to register for MCPD.” What about the free webinars ICAN organises from time-to-time that come with 2 credit hours each? If you attend just 5 of these free MCPD webinars, do you know how many credit hours you’d have? We really need to be intentional about our professional growth. Getting ACA is not the end of the road—in fact, it’s just the beginning of your professional journey. That ACA after your name is a badge of trust that must be upheld and defended at all times. So, let me ask—Are you financially up to date? Is your professional conduct in check? Have you met your MCPD requirements? If not, now is the time to take action. Cheers 🥂

I spend 15+ hours monthly on professional development that most agents skip. Most real estate agents think their license renewal education is enough. It's NOT. My continuous learning approach: 1️⃣ Mandatory + strategic education Beyond California's required 45 hours every four years, I complete additional certifications in buyer representation, fair housing, and risk management. The Bay Area market changes too rapidly for minimum compliance. 2️⃣ Technology mastery I test new platforms monthly - from AI-powered market analysis tools to blockchain transaction systems. 3️⃣ Market intelligence sources Daily consumption of specialized publications, MLS trend reports, and local market data. Recent example: Spotted the East Bay price correction trend three months before it became obvious, helping clients time their moves strategically. 4️⃣ Active industry engagement Monthly Bay Area real estate investor meetings, quarterly networking events, and even meeting people personally. The insights from experienced agents and market professionals often prove more valuable than formal coursework. 👉 Why this investment matters? When MLS rules changed in August 2024 regarding cooperative compensation, I had already updated my processes. When AI valuation models started affecting appraisals, my clients weren't surprised by the impact. 👉 The Result: My clients receive market insights that help them avoid costly mistakes and capitalize on opportunities others miss. Professional development isn't about collecting certificates - it's about delivering expertise that protects my clients' biggest investments in an ever-evolving market. How do you stay ahead of industry changes in your field? #bayarea #realestateagent #realtor #learning

Psychology Licensing: India vs. The World – How Do They Compare? Becoming a psychologist looks very different depending on where you are. Here’s how licensing works in India, the USA, the UK, and Australia: 🔹 India (RCI – Rehabilitation Council of India Certification) ~ To practice as a Clinical Psychologist, you need RCI certification. ~ This requires completing an RCI-approved program like MPhil (Master of Philosophy) in Clinical Psychology, PsyD (Doctor of Psychology), or PGDCP (Post Graduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology). ~ Non-clinical fields (counseling, organizational, educational psychology) don’t require RCI certification, but there’s no national licensing system yet. 🔹 USA (APA – American Psychological Association & State Licenses) ~ Requires a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) from an APA-accredited program + 3,000 supervised hours + passing the EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology). ~ Licenses are state-specific, meaning you may need extra requirements to practice in a different state. ~ Some states participate in PSYPACT (Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact), allowing easier interstate practice. 🔹 UK (HCPC – Health and Care Professions Council & BPS – British Psychological Society) ~ Titles like “Clinical Psychologist” are protected and require HCPC registration. ~ Clinical psychologists must complete a professional doctorate. ~ Other fields like forensic or health psychology may require a Master’s + BPS qualifications. 🔹 Australia (AHPRA – Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency & National Licensing) ~ Uses a national licensing system under AHPRA & the Psychology Board of Australia. ~ Full registration requires either a Master’s + supervised practice or a Doctorate. ~ Practical training and exams ensure competency. Key Takeaway: - India focuses on RCI certification for clinical roles but lacks standardization for non-clinical fields. - The USA, UK, and Australia have more structured licensing systems requiring doctorates and extensive training. If you’re planning to work internationally, check the country’s specific licensing pathways!

🎥 PgMP® Info Session Recap – What We Covered Last Evening! Last evening, we conducted a detailed session on the Program Management Professional (PgMP®) certification by PMI — focused on helping professionals understand the full journey from eligibility to application to exam success. Here are the 🔑 key points we discussed: ◻️ Who should pursue PgMP? Strategic program managers looking to move beyond project delivery and demonstrate value at the organizational level. ◻️ Eligibility clarified ✅ With PMP: 4 years of program experience ✅ Without PMP: 4 years of project + 4 years of program experience ✅ Without degree: 7 years of program experience ◻️ The Application Process 1️⃣ Application Review – with three essay-style experience summaries 2️⃣ Panel Review – assessed by certified PgMP experts Only after that can you appear for the computer-based exam! ◻️ Exam Content Outline (ECO) We deep-dived into the 5 Domains: • Strategic Program Management • Program Life Cycle • Benefits Management • Stakeholder Engagement • Governance ◻️ Our Support at iZenBridge We offer three flexible support options: ✔️ Application Review Only ✔️ Full Self-Paced Program (Application + Exam Prep) ✔️ Prep-Only (for Re-takers) Complete with detailed videos, eBooks, mock tests & WhatsApp community support. 📺 Missed the session? Catch the full replay here: 👉 https://lnkd.in/gmuhSwrE 📌 If you're planning for PgMP in 2025, this is the best place to start. #PgMP #ProgramManagement #PgMPApplication #PgMPPreparation #PMICertification #PgMPExam #ProgramManager #StrategicLeadership #iZenBridge

Dear Hiring Managers for Language Schools, If you’re hiring English teachers and treating TEFL, TESOL, and CELTA qualifications (or even a BA in Linguistics, Languages, or Education) as interchangeable, it’s time to revisit your criteria. These certifications may all focus on English teaching, but their depth and approach vary significantly. CELTA (Cambridge) and CertTESOL (Trinity) provide rigorous training with supervised teaching practice and detailed feedback. These programs prepare teachers to handle real classrooms with confidence and skill. TEFL and TESOL courses, while valuable, differ greatly in quality. Many offer solid theoretical grounding, but they often lack the structured, hands-on teaching component found in CELTA or CertTESOL. A BA in Linguistics, Languages, or Education, especially in countries like Brazil, often prepares graduates for teaching in regular schools, not private language institutions. These degrees focus on a different educational environment, where the methodologies, student profiles, and goals differ significantly from those in language schools. Understanding these differences can help you hire teachers who are ready to meet the demands of your school and your students. Precision in job requirements leads to better hiring decisions and better outcomes in the classroom. Let’s raise the bar for English language education by recognizing what strong teacher preparation really looks like. #ELT #efl #esl #esol #englishteacher #CELTA #TESOL #TEFL #LanguageEducation #TeacherTraining

International Medical Laboratory Technologists/ Scientists Certification and Licensing and their requirements: 1. United States Title: Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) or Medical Technologist (MT) Certification Bodies: ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology): MLS(ASCP) is the most recognized certification. AMT (American Medical Technologists): MT(AMT) is another option. Requirements: Bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science or related field. Completion of an accredited MLS program. Passing the certification exam. Some states require state licensure (e.g., California, New York). 2. Canada Title: Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) Certification Body: Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Requirements: Graduation from an accredited Canadian MLT program (or recognized international equivalent). Passing the CSMLS certification exam. Provincial regulation exists in most provinces (e.g., CMLTO in Ontario). 3. United Kingdom Title: Biomedical Scientist Certification Body: Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Requirements: Honours degree in biomedical science (IBMS-accredited). Completion of a Registration Training Portfolio. Registration with HCPC is mandatory to practice. 4. Australia Title: Medical Laboratory Scientist Certification Body: Australian Institute of Medical and Clinical Scientists (AIMS) Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science (AIMS-accredited). Overseas qualifications require assessment by AIMS. No national licensing body, but AIMS certification is often required by employers. 5. Germany Title: Medizinisch-Technischer Laboratoriumsassistent (MTLA) Certification/Regulation: Regulated profession; training must meet federal standards. Three-year vocational training followed by state examination. International professionals may need to go through recognition process (Anerkennung). 6. Switzerland Title: Biomedical Laboratory Technician (Laborant/in) Certification: Requires completion of a Federal Diploma (Fachausweis). International applicants must go through Swiss Red Cross (SRC) for diploma recognition. 7. Nordic Countries (Sweden, Norway, Denmark) Title: Bioingeniør (Norway), Biomedicinsk analytiker (Sweden) Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in biomedical laboratory science. Must apply for a license from the national health authority (e.g., Helsemyndighetene in Norway). Degrees from non-EU countries undergo rigorous recognition processes. #MedicalLaboratory #LabTechnologist #LabScientist #healthcareprofessionals #CSMLS #ASCPi #HCPC #AIMS #MTLA #SwissRedCross #SwedenHealthcare #ASCP #MedicalLabScience #ClinicalLaboratory #LaboratoryScience #LabProfessionals #InternationalCertification

🎓 Looking to Earn #CTS Renewal Units (RUs) Outside AVIXA’s Website? Here’s Your Go-To List ✅ Earlier this morning, after sharing some guidance on preparing for the #CTSexam, I was asked the following question: Are there other training sources (beyond AVIXA) that offer CTS Renewal Units❓ Absolutely ! and here’s a curated list of manufacturers and organizations offering AVIXA RU-approved training for certified professionals: 🎛️ 1. #QSC: Courses in AV design, control and networked systems that support CTS renewal. 🌐 2. #NETGEAR: Specialized trainings in AV-over-IP and network infrastructure qualify for RUs. 📡 3. #SDVoE Alliance: Offers technical certification and training focused on Software Defined Video over Ethernet, eligible for CTS Renewal Units. 🎙️ 4. Shure: Wireless audio and system configuration training recognized for CTS RUs. ⚙️ 5. #Crestron: From programming to system integration, most training qualifies for RUs. 🎧 6. #Dante (Audinate): Dante Level certifications and workshops are widely RU-approved. 🔈 7. #Biamp: Training in AV network design and system deployment qualifies for RUs. 🔌 8. #HARMAN (AMX): AMX-specific courses in control and AV systems provide RUs. 📢 9. #Bosch: Focused on conferencing, communications and public address systems. 📽️ 10. Christie Digital: RU-eligible training in projection, video walls and visual systems. 📺 11. Panasonic: AVIXA-aligned courses in pro AV technologies and applications. 🎥 12. Barco: RU-certified training in visualization, collaboration and control systems. 🔊 13. AtlasIED: Communications, paging and sound system trainings qualify for CTS RUs. 🎼 14. #LAcoustics: Known for immersive audio courses with renewal credit options. 🎚️ 15. #Yamaha: Audio solution certifications often include RU-eligible coursework. 🗣️ 16. #ClearCom: Intercom and audio distribution training aligned with RU requirements. 🔧 17. #Extron: A wide portfolio of CTS RU-approved education in AV technology. 🖥️ 18. #SAVI Controls: Commercial AV system training sessions qualify for renewal. 🖼️ 19. #RP Visual Solutions: Visual and display tech courses approved for CTS renewal. 📊 20. #Watchfire: RU-eligible training focused on digital signage technologies. 📚 21. #ExertisAlmo: Training on a broad range of AV topics approved for RUs. 🎛️ 22. #ExertisJam: Certifications (e.g., Allen & Heath AHM) offer CTS renewal credits. 📌 For the most up-to-date list, refer to the AVIXA CTS RU Provider directory: https: //https://lnkd.in/dmdDVY9b 💡 In Conclusion: Maintaining your CTS credential is more flexible than ever. By tapping into these trusted manufacturers and training providers, you can continue your professional development while keeping your certification current — all while staying sharp in the fast-moving #AVIndustry. #CTS #CTSRenewal #AVTraining #AVProfessionals #AVEducation #ProAV #AVIXA #AVCommunity #AVCareer #AVTechnology #AVIntegration #AVCertification #AVTweeps #AVOverIP #SDVoE

📜 Cybersecurity Certifications – From Beginner to Expert Cybersecurity certifications have become a cornerstone for professionals aiming to validate their skills, strengthen their resumes, and stand out in a competitive market. Depending on your background and career goals, different certifications provide different value, ranging from entry-level foundations to highly specialized expertise. For beginners, certifications like CompTIA Security+, the Google Cybersecurity Certificate, and ISC2 CC (Certified in Cybersecurity) are excellent starting points. These programs focus on the fundamentals—risk management, basic security concepts, and common attack/defense strategies—making them ideal for those just entering the field. At the intermediate level, professionals often pursue the CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) from EC-Council, CompTIA CySA+ which focuses on threat detection and analysis, and the Cisco CCNA Security for those leaning toward network-focused security. These certifications signal hands-on knowledge and the ability to handle more complex scenarios. Advanced professionals often set their sights on certifications such as the OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional), known for its rigorous hands-on penetration testing exam, or the CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), which emphasizes architecture and governance. In addition, GIAC certifications provide specialized tracks in areas like forensics, threat hunting, and incident response, offering depth for those who want to master a niche domain. Finally, in specialized domains, certifications such as CISM (focused on management), CISA (for audit and compliance), CCSP (for cloud security), and provider-specific options like AWS Security and Azure Security help professionals align their skills with industry-specific demands. These are especially valuable for those working in cloud-heavy or compliance-driven environments. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Certifications are not a one-size-fits-all solution. They should be chosen based on career objectives, available budget, and the professional path you want to follow. #CyberSecurity #Certifications #InfoSec #CareerGrowth #SecurityTraining #BlueTeam #RedTeam #OSCP #CISSP #EthicalTech

📣 Important Update for Clinical Nursing & Allied Health Professionals Seeking Opportunities in Abu Dhabi & Al Ain! As the demand for qualified healthcare professionals continues to rise in the UAE—especially in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain—it's crucial that aspiring candidates meet the licensing criteria set by the Department of Health (DOH), Abu Dhabi. Whether you are a new applicant or currently hold a DOH license that is due for renewal/re-registration, understanding and complying with the latest requirements can make your profile stand out and eligible for opportunities in this growing healthcare hub. 🗂 Categories this applies to: ✔️ Clinical Nursing (RN, Assistant Nurse, Midwives, etc.) ✔️ Clinical Allied Health (Physiotherapists, Lab Technicians, Radiographers, Pharmacists, Dietitians, and more) 🔍 Key Points to Note: New Licensing Application: Ensure your education, experience, and professional qualifications are aligned with DOH standards. Applicants must create a Shafafya (DOH) account and submit documents through the DOH e-licensing portal. Equivalency and dataflow verification of credentials are mandatory. Exam eligibility (DOH Exam or Prometric/CBT) depends on category and experience. Re-Registration of Existing License: Required for professionals whose DOH licenses have expired or were not renewed within the timeline. Professionals must ensure all required CPD (Continuing Professional Development) points are earned. Updated documents (passport, Emirates ID, professional registration, etc.) must be uploaded. If the license has lapsed for more than a year, re-examination or additional documentation may be required. 📌 Why This Matters: Many healthcare employers in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain prioritize or exclusively consider candidates who hold a valid or active DOH license. Having your documents updated and license in place not only speeds up the hiring process but also increases your chances of being shortlisted. 💬 Need Help? If you are: Confused about the application process Facing issues with re-registration Unsure if you meet the eligibility criteria Feel free to DM me or comment below. I’d be happy to guide you or connect you with the right licensing consultants. Let’s get you one step closer to your dream job in the UAE healthcare sector! 🌟 #DOHLicensing #AbuDhabiJobs #AlAinOpportunities #HealthcareCareers #NursingJobsUAE #AlliedHealthUAE #RecruitmentInsights #JobSearchTips #UAEHealthcare #TalentAcquisition

If you’ve received a reminder from the ICF recently that your credential is up for renewal in the coming year, for your sake, please don’t let that reminder languish in your inbox, getting buried further back until you suddenly realise you only have three months left to get your 40 hours of CCEUs up together. Forty hours is not that much continuous professional development over the course of three years but it seems to sneak up on some people. Here’s what you need to know: Start with what you are interested in vs scrabbling around for any old CCEUs that just don’t stimulate you. There are so many places to explore. And what I love is that these hours don’t have to be another course. More personalised learning comes from mentor coaching and supervision. And you can use up to 10 hours of each of these towards the 24 core competency requirement. That’s 20 hours right there, spread over time for the spiral learning that they furnish. (And you can count being a mentor coach and supervisor within that as you are learning just as much there). You are required to take 3 hours of ethics. So that Takes you to 23. Only one more core comp hour needed to meet the minimum 24 core comp requirement. The rest could be resource development, which can be any other development you’ve done. That includes self-study such as reading, writing, volunteering to an ICF chapter, and much more . You can find out more here: https://lnkd.in/e9NqNza4 So it’s really not that hard. Unless you leave it to the last minute! Especially if you are renewing at ACC, as mentor coaching is a requirement for this level of renewal and must be spread over a minimum of three months. So for your own sanity, start researching your options now and book in the development that is going to give you the greatest stretch and enjoyment.