CARTES & IDentification 2008, Villepinte, France, November 4, 2008 – The leading professional association of the global smart card industry, the Smart Card Alliance today announced it has created the Leadership, Education and Advancement Program (LEAP) for individuals interested in continuously improving their knowledge and professional proficiency in the smart card industry.
LEAP membership is open to all individual professionals working in the smart card industry in the United States and worldwide, regardless of whether their organization is a current member of the Smart Card Alliance.
"The smart card industry is increasingly complex, as more diverse markets are adopting the technology for new and innovative applications," said Randy Vanderhoof, executive director of the Smart Card Alliance. "The Smart Card Alliance recognizes that many smart card industry professionals are challenged to find quality educational resources to broaden their industry knowledge, and therefore has designed LEAP to advance education and professional development."
Vanderhoof continued, "Being a LEAP member will enhance individuals’ proficiency and knowledge about smart card technology and applications, distinguish themselves within their organization and with clients, and increase their recognition with other industry professionals."
Beginning in 2009, LEAP members also have the option to earn a Certified Smart Card Industry Professional (CSCIP) designation. CSCIP is a standardized certification program available to all LEAP participants that recognizes industry professionals that have advanced levels of knowledge and experience, and have passed a multi-part exam developed by leading smart card industry experts.
LEAP members have access to the following members-only benefits: the LEAP Web site containing a comprehensive library of educational materials such as Smart Card Alliance reports, white papers, research, past webinars and conference presentations; a social networking site to meet and share information with other LEAP members; private webinars and briefings on relevant industry topics; special networking receptions; and discounts to events and services.
The program is administered and reviewed annually for relevance and updates by the Smart Card Alliance Professional Development Committee, comprised of Leadership Council-level members and board members of the Smart Card Alliance Board of Directors. Membership information and fees can be found at www.smartcardalliance.org/pages/activities-leap. For more information contact the Smart Card Alliance at 1-800-556-6828 or email the LEAP administrator at [email protected].
