The IICRC is happy to share that 2010 has been another banner year for growth of both certifications and standards in the cleaning and restoration industry. In the works for 2011 are Standards in the areas of carpet installation, crime scene cleanup, and carpet inspection. New Certifications being prepared include a new advanced level certification in mold remediation designed for advanced technicians and or project managers.
2011 is also expected to be the year that IICRC implements an aggressive branding/marketing program to increase name recognition in both the insurance community and well as with the general public. Already planned is IICRC representation at major insurance industry association events and continued work with governmental agencies.
Work continues toward the concept of forming a national federated trade association to represent the entire industry as one voice with hopes to gain needed benefits and programs for those practicing in the field.
The IICRC Board of Directors has approved an aggressive strategic plan that includes expansion of services and continued growth in numbers. IICRC headquarters is now processing over 25,000 certification exams per year. Water damage restoration continues to be the fastest growing certification category. Now approaching 60,000 certified registrants, the IICRC is looking forward to a bright future as we move into the New Year.
Certified Firm benefits continue to grow, with a new marketing toolbox available to active IICRC Certified Firms designed to assist them in growing their businesses. Strong affiliations with industry partners and related groups help IICRC Certifications and Standards to be recognized as the premiere industry credentials.
The IICRC will be exhibiting at the Surfaces Trade Show in January, reaching out to flooring manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. Later in the year, the IICRC will be represented at the Property Loss Research Bureau (PLRB) convention to represent our thousands of certified restoration specialists.
The latest copy of the “IICRC News” produced quarterly by the IICRC is available now on the IICRC website at www.iicrc.org. Also on the website are press releases and industry updates of interest to cleaners and restorers.
The next meeting of the IICRC Certification Council is planned for Clearwater Beach, Fla., just before the annual Connections Conference and Exhibition. The IICRC will also be exhibiting, and we look forward to seeing many of you there.
