Update on changes to Full membership

In preparation for the introduction of IEMA's new Full membership standard at the end of March, professional standards manager Zebrina Hanly offers some advice to potential candidates

She starts by advising anyone thinking of progressing their membership to MIEMA to first read the article outlining the new Full standard, published in the Training focus supplement with December’s issue of the environmentalist.

The article explains all the forthcoming alterations, which include a switch to online interviews from face-to-face meetings, and how the changes will ensure that the Full standard continues to reflect the profession.

“This article gives complete clarification about what is changing and when, but most importantly, why,” says Hanly. “The changes are about making sure that our standards, particularly for those at the senior end of our membership, fairly reflect the work our members do and the influence they have in their workplace.”

The article in the environmentalist also contains a list of the revised Full member competencies that apply from March, which potential MIEMA applicants should familiarise themselves with.

Meanwhile, for anyone who is about to begin or is thinking about upgrading to Full membership, Hanly advises them to hold off applying for a few more weeks.

“I’d urge you to wait until after 31 March when the new standard is implemented,” she says. Waiting will enable members to proceed with their application unhindered by any changes and ensure that the Institute can handle the anticipated high number of applications.

Further information detailing the changes are available online at iema.net/membership-dual-support and will be updated over the coming weeks to include support materials. An email update service is also available for any members interested in achieving Full status, says Hanly.

To be kept up to date with the changes as they come into force email your details to [email protected]. The updates will include details of key dates when the current standard is phased out, and those who sign up will also benefit from guidance documents and receive invites to future events and webinars supporting applicants through the revised MIEMA process.