As 2025 draws to a close, the ASSE International Professional Certifications department continues to make significant strides in strengthening certification programs and aligning with evolving industry needs. This year’s efforts reflect a commitment to excellence, stakeholder engagement, and public health protection across multiple disciplines.
ENHANCEMENTS TO THE ASSE 13000 SERVICE PLUMBER PRACTICAL EXAM
The Service Plumber Technical Committee met in September during the ASSE Annual Meeting in Palm Springs, California, to review certification statistics and practical exam content for the ASSE 13010 Service Plumber Certification. Updates included the development of new scenarios for the practical exam, the streamlining of documents that proctors complete, and the development of a new grading scale. These enhancements aim to reflect real-world service conditions and improve the defensibility of the credential. Promotional efforts such as truck stickers and social media campaigns are also underway to increase program visibility and engagement.
STRENGTHENING THE CROSS-CONNECTION CONTROL PROGRAM
In 2025, ASSE’s Cross-Connection Control program saw expanded recognition and regulatory alignment. The California State Water Resources Control Board formally recognized the ASSE 5110 certification for backflow prevention assembly testers, validating its compliance with the state’s Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook. This milestone reinforces ASSE’s leadership in protecting potable water systems and supports broader adoption of ASSE credentials across jurisdictions. There are also additional initiatives that we are working on, so be on the lookout for those projects in 2026.
UPDATES TO THE ASSE 15000 CERTIFICATION FOR THE INSPECTION, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE OF WATER-BASED FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
The ASSE 15000 certification examination for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems underwent targeted revisions in 2025 to align with the latest editions of NFPA 11, 13, 20, 24, and 750. These updates were reviewed during the April 2025 ASSE 15000 Fire Protection Test Construction Subcommittee meeting that took place in Mokena, Illinois, where subject matter experts evaluated certification data, exam content, and program guidelines. Continuous maintenance of the standard remains a priority, with additional refinements planned to ensure consistency with NFPA standards. The committee also emphasized outreach and regulatory engagement, including developments in California and participation in the NFPA 2025 conference that was held in Las Vegas.
LOOKING AHEAD: FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS AND STRATEGIC INITIATIVES
The Standards department is actively revising and reaffirming more than 15 professional certifications standards. A job task analysis for the ASSE 5110 Backflow Tester Certification was completed earlier this year, with findings that will enhance future exam development. Internally, the department is reviewing and updating documentation to reflect current policies and procedures, and plans are underway to provide targeted training for new program directors.
Staff transitions have also strengthened the department’s capacity. Karen Kadubek now oversees school audits and site visits, while Allison Drechny manages exam coordination and committee liaison duties. Tracy Schuster continues to provide foundational support to ensure continuity and excellence across all initiatives. As senior director of Professional Testing and Credential Services, I want to extend my sincere thanks to our dedicated volunteers, committee members, and staff for making 2025 a truly impactful year. Your expertise, time, and commitment have been instrumental in advancing our mission and ensuring the integrity of ASSE’s certification programs.
I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and energized by the momentum we’ve built. Looking ahead to 2026, I’m confident that we will continue to innovate, collaborate, and deliver high-quality programs that serve our industry and protect public health. Thank you again for your contributions — I look forward to another great year.
COVER PHOTO: (LEFT TO RIGHT) ALLISON DRECHNY, KAREN KADUBEK, KATHLEEN HUTTNER, AND ASSE CENTRAL REGION DIRECTOR KEVIN MCDONOUGH AT THE ASSE SCHOOL FORUM IN PALM SPRINGS
