What participants say about IABC/BC's Accreditation Preparation Program
The Accreditation Preparation Program proved to among the best series of professional development seminars that I have ever taken. Combine that with a low cost and an inspiring group of fellow communicators leading each session - and this opportunity should not be missed! I recommend it even if you don't want to pursue full accreditation but are simply looking to broaden your scope in the field of communications. I was immediately able to apply skills learned through the APP and share my experiences and knowledge with colleagues, both in and out of the communications field. Overall, my main reason for taking the APP was to give me that extra boost of confidence to apply for accreditation. I'm finally there. ..now on to the ACP!
Wendy Thatcher
Ducks Unlimited Canada
Class of 2009
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Completing the APP was some of the best money I’ve spent on IABC in the past decade. It allowed me to test the accreditation waters and determine that I was ready to move ahead. I also developed a network of people who I continued to stay in touch with throughout my accreditation journey. Lastly, I was able to meet some of our chapter leaders and learn from them in an intimate setting – it was a recap for a few topics, but brand new information in others. I highly recommend the APP to anyone who’s considering the Accreditation Completion Program!
Brandy Delves
Brandy Delves Consulting
Class of 2009 (and ACP Class 2010)
What participants say about IABC/BC's Accreditation Completion Program
The world of communications is ever changing and the ground rules are often being challenged. My experience with the IABC/BC Accreditation Completion Program served to ground me in the core values of ethical, results-oriented, and measurable communications practices that transcend changing communication mediums. An ABC designation reminds those who work with me that the field of communications has professional standards and that I, in turn, have achieved a level of international recognition that validates my commitment to those standards.
Gordon Allan, ABC
St. George's School
Class of 2009
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For me, the Accreditation Completion Program was an invaluable experience. Although I must say it took me a while to realize that ABC didn’t signify Accreditation Boot Camp survivor - LOL. I can’t imagine sitting the exam without benefit of the ACP experience. It’s also a great way to connect to the local IABC chapter and meet some really amazing new colleagues.
Sandy Blue, ABC
Manager Economic Development, District of Maple Ridge
Class of 2008
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I found the ACP – especially the mentors – to be invaluable for preparing me for the ABC exam. I doubt I would have been as well prepared without the program. One of the main benefits of the ACP was the amount of stress reduction it provided. The oral exam was far more daunting to me than the written and the ACP provided adequate practice and prep so I knew exactly what was expected when I went in. With most of the stress removed, I could dig in and concentrate on the exam.
Amanda Brittain, ABC
Director of Communications, Association of BC Forest Professionals
Class of 2007
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The Accreditation Completion Program was a very worthwhile experience and I could not recommend it enough for anyone considering IABC accreditation. The program was professionally structured, well executed and at times downright fun to be a part of. The program was also a great opportunity to interact with fellow communicators all going through the same trepidations writing portfolios and preparing for the oral and written exam.
Robert Hulyk, ABC, MHA
Senior Public Affairs Specialist, British Columbia Medical Association
Class of 2006
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The accreditation program really helped take me to a new level of thinking strategically. After going through this process, I value measurement more than ever. It's one of those things that you always plan to do but it often doesn't get done but I hope to focus my efforts much more on measurement in the future. I would encourage anyone to take the accreditation completion program as the time spent is nothing compared to the reward of going through the process. IABC/BC puts on a phenomenal course that really helps you through each step of the way and provides a strong peer and mentorship support system.
Letty Cherry, ABC
President, Cherry Strategic Consulting
Class of 2004
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I really enjoyed the ACP process. I thought it was well-run and a very valuable experience. If someone were considering going for accreditation, I'd definitely encourage them to do so through the program - very helpful! And, for me, winning a Gold Quill Award the same year also gave me a boost, as I only needed to prepare one portfolio submission.
Paul Skelhorne, ABC
Communications Advisor, Valley First Credit Union
Class of 2004
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Accreditation is respected among other accredited professionals such as engineers, foresters, and biologists who are my clients. They take me more seriously now that I can show evidence of specific training and knowledge testing in my field. In fact, everyone I encounter who learns what IABC accreditation is about responds favourably. Accreditation also gives me a business edge over competition who have not pursued their accreditation.
Frances Maika, ABC
Principle, VOX Communications
Nelson, BC
Class of 2004
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Don't even think about pursuing accreditation without taking this course. The forced schedule, focused professional development, practice exams and camaraderie are invaluable. Earning your ABC by participating in this program is the only way to go. You could do it on your own, but honestly, why do that to yourself when there is all of this willing and knowledgeable support in the form of instructors, mentors and ACP alumni? I feel grateful to be part of a chapter that has built this program and stood by their commitment to foster and promote the value of accreditation.
Laurie Dawkins, ABC
Regional Director, Public Affairs
Vancouver Coastal Health Authority
Class of 2003
