Accrediting Without Borders: How IACET Champions Global Learning Integrity
In an age of rapid globalization and ever-expanding digital frontiers, quality assurance in education is more important than ever.
For organizations and institutions seeking a trusted partner in maintaining high standards of continuing education and training, the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) offers a beacon of excellence without borders or bias.
Who We Are
IACET is an independent, mission-driven nonprofit organization that accredits learning providers worldwide. We don’t have shareholders. We don’t answer to investors. Instead, we’re guided by a volunteer Board of Directors committed to advancing the global learning community.
While our headquarters is located in the United States, our focus and our impact extend well beyond. IACET exists not to dominate international education landscapes with U.S.-centric systems but to support and elevate quality training worldwide, in all its cultural and regional diversity.
What Makes IACET Unique?
Our approach is rooted in a deep commitment to neutrality, continuous improvement, and the universal principles grounded in the research and science of adult learning. Across cultures and contexts, adults learn best when engaged in meaningful, well-structured experiences that respect their time, build on their prior knowledge, and lead to real-world application. The IACET Standard captures these essentials, offering a framework that is both rigorous and adaptable to local realities.
We currently accredit providers in more than 18 countries across six continents, including in Canada, South Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, and Australia, each provider bringing unique perspectives that help shape and enrich the broader learning ecosystem. But this isn’t just about numbers. It’s about trust. It's about fostering a culture of quality, consistency, and shared responsibility across borders.
Our Global Governance
IACET’s governance structure is deliberately international. Our Board of Directors, Accreditation Commission, Standards Development Council, and Standards Consensus Bodies include global representatives who contribute to policy development and strategic decision-making. This comprehensive approach ensures that our accreditation practices remain relevant, responsive, and grounded in the varied cultures, customs, and norms of the communities we serve.
Our governance structure isn’t a one-size-fits-all model imposed from afar. It’s a collaboration, a shared journey with learning providers around the world who are equally passionate about delivering effective, accountable, and learner-centered programs.
Political Neutrality: A Cornerstone of Credibility
In an era where nearly everything seems to be politicized, IACET stands apart. We do not align with political parties, ideologies, or agendas, whether domestic or international. Our focus is, and always has been, squarely on educational quality and organizational integrity.
This unwavering neutrality allows us to build relationships and earn trust across a wide array of geopolitical environments. When we accredit a provider, it’s because they meet the high standards of the IACET framework, not because of who they are, where they’re from, or who they know.
A Vision for Localized Support
Looking ahead, our long-term strategic plan calls for the creation of regional offices staffed by local professionals who understand the unique dynamics of their communities. These offices will allow us to better support accredited providers, foster deeper regional relationships, and ensure our services are delivered with cultural intelligence and respect.
This strategic plan is not about exporting American models of education. It’s about creating an international network of excellence rooted in shared values, guided by a global standard, and supported by regional expertise.
The Bottom Line
IACET believes that quality continuing education should be accessible, adaptable, and trusted, no matter where you are in the world. We’re proud to be a partner in this global endeavor, working alongside providers and practitioners who are shaping the future of learning.
If you’re seeking an accreditation partner that respects local culture, honors global standards, and remains steadfastly independent from politics, IACET is ready to walk that path with you.
About the Author
Randy is a seasoned executive leader currently serving as the President and CEO of IACET, a non-profit accrediting body in the continuing education and training sector. With a focus on strategic vision and operational excellence, he effectively leads the organization to achieve its mission and goals.
With over two decades of experience in various leadership roles, Randy has a proven track record of driving organizational success. His expertise lies in aligning technological solutions with strategic objectives, ensuring operational efficiency and sustainable growth.