History

The Certification Board of Governors (CBG) was formed as a non-profit 501(c)(3) Arizona corporation. Prior to its existence, there was no established organization offering a global international trade certification standard program that met the industry's growing need for validation of professional proficiency across countries. Based on prompting of industry experts, members of academia, corporate leaders and government agency representatives' suggestions worldwide, it was determined that a need existed for this type of standardized certification program.

The CBG chose the International Export Institute (IIEI), a nationally accredited university, as the Administrator of the certification program because it had the resources to manage the process. In support of the CBG's established industry standards, the IIEI operationalizes the standards by providing the content development and training component as needed. To insure a seamless execution of the global standards, the IIEI orchestrates the program through numerous training organizations, colleges and universities worldwide, who in turn provide this knowledge standard and supporting coursework to individuals seeking certification.

From its very beginning, the Certification Board of Governors has represented industry. Through the volunteers serving on the various CBG Committees, government, academic and industry views from around the world have provided the foundation from which the various industry certifications have evolved. It is by having this broad base of support that the Certification Board of Governors has established a valuable certification program that continues to meet the needs of the global marketplace.

Because of increased industry demands, beginning in 2003, the Certification Board of Governors has approved the expansion in standing committees from one to two, including the Ethics & Professional Standards Committee and Compliance & Enforcement Committee. In 2005, the CBG expanded to include an Advisory Council.

All of the CBG's industry certification standards programs are available to all governments, colleges, universities and training organizations throughout the world. Thanks to this effort, this single global standard for international trade professionals is recognized in over 140 countries around the world.