If you are looking for a supply chain career or looking to advance from an entry-level supply chain job, you may want accreditation to demonstrate your knowledge. In addition to academic degrees from universities and technical colleges specializing in supply chain management. There are professional associations that offer educational programs that lead to professional designations in supply chain management. This is similar to a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) in accounting or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) in finance for example. Unlike academic degrees, professional associations usually require ongoing educational requirements and active participation in the association in order for you to maintain your professional designation status.
Some professional associations in Canada are:
Supply Chain Canada has its origin in purchasing but has expanded to include all areas of supply chain management. The professional designation it offers is the Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP).
Canadian Institute of Traffic and Transportation (CITT) focuses on the logistics area of supply chain management. The CITT Certified Logistics Professional (CCLP) is CITT’s professional designation.
The Logistics Institute is another logistics focused association. It offers the P.Log designation which can be obtain through The Process Management Program or The Change Enablement Program.
Canadian Society of Customs Brokers (CSCB) specializes in customs regulatory compliance businesses involved in the import/export of goods across the Canadian border. They offer two designations: the Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) and Certified Trade Compliance Specialist (CTCS).
Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFFA) is an association of freight forwarders. Members can obtain a Professional Freight Forwarder (PFF) designation if they complete all its requirements.
Forum for International Trade Training (FITT) provides training for international trade from a business perspective to help increase the likelihood of import/export success. It is endorsed by Export Development Canada (EDC). The designation FITT offers is the CITP or Certified International Trade Professional.
Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) is not a Canadian-based association but has Canadian Chapters operating in different provinces. It offers various credentials and certifications.
Professional designations and membership in these associations may be different. In most cases, you can be a member and choose not to pursue a professional designation. Associations may offer trade shows, networking events, and courses/seminars that do not necessarily lead to a professional designation but provide members value nonetheless. You should determine your level of involvement based on your personal situation and career goals.