Chair – James Tumelson, CBO/MCP, ACO – City of Edgewood

OVERVIEW

Accreditation is a committee of the Washington Association of Building Officials (WABO) tasked with the development, maintenance, and marketing of the Accredited Code Official (ACO) program and the Code Official Accreditation Program (COAP). The committee is responsible for developing and recommending course curriculum, monitoring deliverables and being an advocate for Washington State code officials learning opportunities.

MISSION

• Foster lifelong learner within the code official roles
• Promote raising the bar of skilled code officials
• Promote education and training that will improve the interactions between code officials and our customers
• Work to create synergy between all disciplines within City government while enhancing the experience with internal and external customers
• Advertise Accreditation programs importance and value to all stakeholders

MISSION OF THE CODE OFFICIAL ACCREDITATION PROGRAM (COAP)

Promote the effective administration of construction codes in Washington State by supporting the development of professional administrative, technical, and customer services skills for permit technicians, building inspectors and plans examiners:

• Attract and retain code officials that reflect the diversity of our communities
• Improve proficiency in technical, customer service, and administrative skills
• Establish a baseline of professional competency for public service staff
• Develop and grow a pool of qualified and experience Code Official professionals
• Create and maintain learning opportunities for Code Officials
• Provide and promote education to current and future Code Officials
• Work to evaluate program needs and procure qualified instructors
• Advocate appropriate legislation at the State level for Code Official skill development

CODE OFFICIAL ACCREDITATION PROGRAM (COAP) CHARGES

• Develop and maintain curriculum (thorough review every three years prior to code update)
• Develop and maintain program administration
• Meet regularly with Accreditation Committee
• Develop tutor program
• Obtain state licensing
• Outreach prospective students (high school, New Market Skill Center, Work Source, VA Vocational Rehab)

MISSION OF THE ACCREDITED CODE OFFICIAL PROGRAM (ACO)

Validate Code Officials of Washington on their character, values, education, credentials, involvement, and technical knowledge of the laws related to state adopted building codes including, but not limited to, administrative procedures, architectural barriers, and Washington amendments to the administrative codes

• Establish a recognized and respected State level credential
• Develop a standard of State recognition
• Foster Code Officials within the State
• Validation of Accredited State Code Officials

ACCREDITED CODE OFFICIAL PROGRAM (ACO) CHARGES

• Develop and maintain the examination
• Develop and maintain program administration
• Outreach membership

WHY YOU SHOULD VOLUNTEER WITH THIS COMMITTEE

Succession planning is one of the most important things a leader can do for their organization. Providing opportunity, training technical skills, and sharing knowledge gained through years of experience are all important aspects of this work. By joining the Accreditation Committee, you will have the opportunity to participate in building and sustaining a program that will allow you to grow as an individual.

JOIN TODAY