Certified Workforce Specialist

The IAWP Certified Workforce Specialist Program

IAWP believes that to grow as people and to grow in our careers, we need to be lifelong learners. That's why IAWP is committed to helping its members achieve professional development goals and it is the reason the Certified Workforce Specialist (CWS) Program was developed.

What's in it for me?

The "CWS" credential after your name shows you are part of an outstanding group of workforce professionals who have extensive knowledge and experience in workforce issues.
It shows you have passed a rigorous competency-based testing program from an international association, that you are respected by your peers, and that you see professional membership as an important part of your career.
The CWS designation shows current and potential employers your initiative in developing, maintaining, and improving your career skills within the workforce field.

Certification Requirements

There are four (4) requirements:

1. Education plus Experience

Master's Degree with two (2) years current experience OR
Bachelor's Degree with three (3) years current experience OR
Associate's Degree with four (4) years current experience OR
High School Diploma or GED with five (5) years current experience

2. Professional Membership
The applicant must have maintained membership in IAWP for the previous two (2) consecutive years or have similar membership in another workforce development professional association for the same time frame. To join IAWP, please go to the Join IAWP section of this website.

3. IAWP Workforce Professional Development Program (WPDP)
Candidates must pass all four (4) WPDP competencies (History of Workforce Development, Business & Jobseeker Specialist, Unemployment Insurance Specialist, and Labor Market Information Specialist). The WPDP is currently available in a hardcopy version, but an electronic/online version is being developed. See the WPDP section of this website for more information.

4. Professional References
The candidate must submit two (2) letters of reference: one from an immediate supervisor, and one from another person within the workforce profession who can attest to the individual's experience, knowledge and skills.

Certification Period

Certification is valid for three years from time of approval. Individuals may apply for recertification every three (3) years as long as they can show proof that they are still employed in a workforce development profession and provide proof that they have completed at least 100 hours of professional development training since their last certification.

Application Process

The official application form must be completed legibly and sent to the IAWP Administrative Office with the required documentation and fees as noted. Applications will be reviewed by the IAWP Review Committee within two (2) months of receipt. Approved applicants will be notified within two (2) weeks of completion of review by way of a certificate and letter of congratulations.

CWS Application Package

Fees

Certification: The application fee is $50 and is not refundable. If the application is not accepted, you can reapply within six (6) months for no additional fee.

Re-certification (every three (3) years): The reapplication fee is $50.