At ASSE International, the expertise and dedication of our members and industry professionals have always been the foundation of our success. We depend on their participation in various technical committees and working groups to help shape new standards publications, develop program guidelines, provide subject matter expertise, and guide the strategic direction of our organization.

Our committees are vital to the growth, focus, and future of ASSE International. The insight and contributions of industry experts play an essential role in ensuring our work remains relevant and impactful.

Serving on a committee offers a range of valuable benefits. It provides a platform to share your voice, thoughts, and expertise among a group of respected industry peers. Involvement also opens the door to meaningful networking opportunities, helping you connect with new professionals across the industry. In addition to building relationships, committee work is an excellent way to deepen your industry knowledge and support your professional growth and career advancement.

HOW TO APPLY TO BE ON AN ASSE INTERNATIONAL TECHNICAL COMMITTEE
Committee membership is open to individuals with general knowledge and competence in the committee’s area of focus. In most cases, applicants must also be members of ASSE International. The call for committee applications is issued annually, typically during the last quarter of the year. To apply, you’ll need to complete an online application indicating the committees you’re interested in and upload a current, detailed resume. All applications must be submitted by Nov. 14. Applications are then carefully reviewed by the ASSE International president, with official committee appointments made at the start of the new year.

In this article, we’re focusing on ASSE International’s technical committees. These advisory groups play a vital role in supporting our professional certification programs by offering expert technical guidance and insight.

Each technical committee is comprised of subject matter experts from the industries served by the corresponding certification. Committee members contribute in several key areas, including program discussions, review of performance statistics, and the development of technical content. They also provide valuable industry knowledge and expertise to ensure our programs remain accurate, relevant, and aligned with real-world practices. Current ASSE technical committees include:

  • Cross-Connection Control (5000)
  • Residential Fire Sprinkler (7000)
  • Infection Control (12000)
  • Service Plumber (13010)
  • Fire Protection (15000/27000)
  • Hydronic Technical (19000)
  • Rainwater Catchment (21000)
  • Water Treatment Equipment (22000)
  • Inspectors of Cured in Place Pipe (CIPP) Rehabilitation (28000)

SUBCOMMITTEES AND THEIR ROLE
Within each ASSE technical committee, three dedicated subcommittees have been established to support the ongoing success and integrity of our certification programs. These subcommittees are the School/Instructor/Proctor Application Review Subcommittee, the Program Guidelines Subcommittee, and the Test Development Subcommittee. To be a member of any of the sub-committees, individuals must also be members of the main technical committee.

Subcommittee members are appointed by the technical committee chair and work under the guidance of ASSE International staff. While each subcommittee has a focused mission, they may also be tasked with additional responsibilities at the direction of the ASSE Board of Directors, staff, or the technical committee chair.

The School/Instructor/Proctor Application Review Subcommittee is responsible for reviewing applications and qualifications submitted by prospective schools, instructors, and proctors. Members may also assist with site visits as needed. Their primary mission is to ensure that all applicants meet the standards set forth in the ASSE program guidelines. Their careful evaluation and feedback play a crucial role in maintaining the quality and credibility of approved training providers and personnel across certification programs.

The Program Guidelines Subcommittee is tasked with reviewing and maintaining the program’s official guidelines. Members provide subject matter expertise, technical insight, and recommendations to the technical committee regarding updates and improvements. A deep understanding of the certification program is essential, as this group helps shape, develop, and ensure the relevance and accuracy of the program guidelines.

The Test Development Subcommittee collaborates with ASSE staff to review exam outlines and assist in writing and refining test questions. Composed of subject matter experts from various disciplines and geographical regions, the group brings a broad range of perspectives to the table. They assess exam content for clarity, accuracy, and relevance, address challenges to questions, and report any recommended updates to the technical committee. Their contributions help ensure that exams are fair, comprehensive, and reflective of current industry standards.

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
If you are interested in joining an ASSE committee, now is the time. We are currently accepting committee applications for 2026. The deadline for application submissions is Nov. 14.

ASSE International depends on engaged members and industry experts to power our work —developing standards and publications, shaping program guidelines, offering technical expertise, and helping steer the direction of our organization.

If you’ve never served on a committee, this is your chance to get involved and make a real impact. If you’re already serving, think of a colleague whose insights would be valuable and encourage them to apply.

Joining an ASSE committee isn’t just about giving back — it’s about being part of the decisions that move our industry forward. Apply today and help shape the future of ASSE International.

To view a list of our active committees, please visit our website. You can view the committees and apply easily online by visiting our website here and completing the online application: www.asse-plumbing.org/ membership/committees.

If you have any questions or would like further information, please feel free to contact me at tracy.schuster@asse-plumbing.org or (708) 995-3309.

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Tracy Schuster
Tracy Schuster is the Manager of Professional Testing and Certifications at ASSE International. She collaborates with industry committees to support certification programs. Tracy manages the administration of professional credentialing with a strong focus on maintaining quality, integrity, and industry relevance across multiple trades.