OTTAWA, CANADA—Members of Canada’s international trade community came together last night at FITT’s 13^th National Conference to celebrate the accreditation of 56 newly designated Certified International Trade Professionals (CITP).

These individuals join the prestigious group of over 400 CITPs from across Canada and around the world who are bringing a new level of expertise and accountability to the field of international trade. The CITP designation, known as the FIBP in the US and EU, is the leading credential for professionals working in international trade and is an indication of their advanced knowledge and skill-sets.

"I have been a CITP for the past 2 years. I use the designation on my business card, all of my promotional material, website, and especially on my CV—which is really handy when I bid on international projects," said Diane Girard, President of Global Links Network. "I was recently added to the roster of a foreign management consulting firm. I would not have had the confidence to submit my CV had it not been for the CITP next to my name," she added.

Ms. Josephine Back, CITP and Director of Scotiabank’s Ontario International Trade Services noted, "The FITTskills courses [on of the educational paths to obtaining the CITP] helped me to understand what my customers’ challenges were and know how to help them to mitigate the risks," adding, "Doing business with companies on the other side of the world is exciting. However, it is prudent that we understand the risks every step of the way. FITT (Forum for International Trade Training) provides us with the knowledge and skills to manage our business successfully."

FITT’s highest educational honours, the FITT Educational Awards, were also presented to three students who participated in the FITTskills program—a practical, hands-on series of courses that focus on the fundamentals of international business. The EDC-FITT Internship recipient was also recognized during the event. This internship program, established by EDC, was created in recognition of the importance of international trade to Canada’s economic prosperity.

"The commitment of our Strategic Partners—Export Development Canada and Scotiabank—towards these awards helps us to promote quality international trade training," said Caroline Tompkins, President of FITT. "Honed trade competencies benefit the individual, their employer, and ultimately the Canadian economy."

About FITT:

FITT equips individuals and businesses with the practical skills they need to succeed in today’s competitive global marketplace. A non-profit organization established by industry and government, FITT develops international business programs, sets competency standards, and designs the certification and accreditation programs for the Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) designation. Our programs and services address human resource issues by, providing employers with resources to build their international business capacity; assisting individuals in developing their international business skills and knowledge; and providing international business training support for educators and students. Centered on best practices and developed by leading global business experts, FITT’s resources are the standard of excellence for trade practitioners. FITT and CITP: strengthening your hand in international trade.

The 2009 FITT Educational Award Winners:

2009 – 2010 Certified International Trade Professionals (CITPs):