On January 15, 2009, the IFAI Professional Certification program was put on hold. Since that time, the IFAI Certification Committee has been diligently working to update the Master Fabric Craftsman (MFC) and Industrial Fabric Manager (IFM) certification programs.

The MFC and IFM certification recognizes individuals for superior knowledge, skills, experience and dedication to excellence in a variety of specialty fabric product and management categories. The program revisions are nearing completion and IFAI is now accepting Intent to Apply applications.

In order to qualify for MFC and IFM certifications, candidates must have a minimum three years of industry experience, will be required to demonstrate proficiency in specific areas of knowledge for each specialty, and will have at least 10 continuing education credits.

Continuing education credits may be earned by of a combination of years in the industry, serving on boards or committees, judging an award competition, having a college or technical degree, attending educational workshops and symposiums, presenting at industry events and writing articles for industry magazines.

Certification includes the submission of a written project report with essay questions, passing a written exam and signing of the IFAI Member’s Code of Ethics. In order to enable more candidates to apply and sit for the written exam, IFAI has increased the locations where the exam may be taken. Written exams will continue to be conducted at IFAI Expo Americas and other IFAI events, but may now also be administered by a MFC in your area.

Candidates interested in becoming certified may submit an Intent to Apply form along with a $50 deposit. Upon receipt of this form, you will be assigned a mentor to guide you through the process. Candidates have two years from the date on the Intent to Apply form to submit an application to take the written exam.

For additional information on the program or the Intent to Apply process, contact Beth Hungiville or call +1 651 225 6952.