Inside Perspectives of Futures 2026
- Author: Sebastian Winter
In late February, participants gathered in Sydney, Australia for the commencement of the 2026 JASANZ Futures Program. Designed to set the tone for the months to come, the event brought together professionals from across conformity assessment to connect, share perspectives, and explore the broader context of their world.
In conversations held after the conference, two participants reflected on what drew them to the program, how their roles have shaped their interests, and moments from Sydney that have stayed with them.
Emma Ross and Jacob Lorkin arrived at Futures from different starting points, and yet, both described the early experience as one grounded in learning, collaboration, and growing awareness.
Choosing to Apply
Emma’s decision to apply for the Futures Program was sparked by a recommendation from a colleague and Futures alum who had participated years earlier. That endorsement stayed with her, and when the program opened enrolment again, she jumped in with both feet.
“I had a colleague who took part in the Futures Program and absolutely loved it. She came back and told everyone, ‘you need to do this if you can’”
- Emma Ross
2026 Futures participants Emma Ross (left) and Allie Webb (right).
For Jake, the motivation came from a desire to grow early in his career and better understand the industry he works in. The Futures Program stood out as a chance to build that broader perspective and further his professional development in the certification industry. When he noticed the application was open, he felt it made sense to put his name forward rather than let the opportunity pass.
The role, he noted, is constantly evolving, creating space for improvement work while also managing compliance risks. At this stage of his career, Jake sees learning as his primary driver.
Reflecting on Conformity Assessment
Looking back on the conference, Emma spoke about the role conformity assessment plays in building confidence within her organisation. To Emma, it provides assurance that service providers are delivering quality outcomes and that assets are being properly maintained.
Just as important is the way auditors and auditees work together. For Emma, a collaborative mindset is where real value sits, incorporating relationships and dialogue.
“If auditors and auditees are open and willing to learn from each other, it becomes more than just a compliance exercise. It’s not just ticking a box.”
Insights from Sydney
Both participants described the Sydney micro-conference as a moment that broadened their understanding of the sector. For Jake, one of the strongest takeaways was gaining insight into the wider economic impact of accreditation and conformity assessment.
“The big thing that stuck with me was the overall impact accreditation and conformity assessment has on the whole economy – how it underpins trade and everything. So I’d say learning how the rest of the world – outside of what we do – is affected by what we do.”
- Jake Lorkin
Futures participants Emma Ross (left) and Jake Lorkin (right) in conversation
during a break on day 1 of the Futures micro-conference in Sydney
For Emma, the mix of professions in the room was striking, as the presence of participants ranged from healthcare to trade services underscored the breadth of the sectors brought together under the JASANZ umbrella.
Looking Ahead from the Starting Line
In reflecting on the conference, both Emma and Jake spoke about a renewed sense of curiosity as the Futures Program began. For Emma, the appeal lies in building a fuller picture of the sector and discovering what she does not yet know. While for Jake, it is about seeing the entire landscape more clearly and learning alongside others navigating similar challenges.
Together their reflections capture the Futures Program at its starting point, not only by different professional backgrounds but by a shared openness to learning and a growing awareness of how conformity assessment connects industries, systems, and society.