The conformity assessment industry is facing a critical challenge: ensuring a steady pipeline of industry leaders to carry the torch forward. The JASANZ Futures Program is tackling this head-on, and its success is already clear with the recent appointment of Candice Armoogam to the Accreditation Review Board (ARB). Candice’s journey from program participant to ARB member underscores how JASANZ is investing in the future by preparing the next generation to take on key roles and secure the industry’s long-term success.

The JASANZ Futures Program, launched in 2023, was developed with a clear mission: to support the future of conformity assessment, accreditation, and certification by investing in emerging talent. Participants like Candice gain invaluable experience, developing a comprehensive understanding of how the conformity assessment ecosystem functions and its crucial role across industries. This initiative equips professionals with the tools and knowledge necessary to uphold standards, protect public safety, and drive operational excellence.

In December 2023, the JASANZ Governing Board appointed Candice Armoogam (MSc, CMQ/OE, CQE) to the JASANZ Accreditation Review Board (ARB). Candice’s background in quality assurance, coupled with her dedication to continuous learning, made her a standout candidate. Through her experience in ISO-certified systems, she built a strong foundation in operational discipline, which she deepened further during her time in the JASANZ Futures Program. The knowledge she gained—from public safety to consumer protection—has equipped her to bring a fresh perspective to the ARB, where she will now contribute to key decisions regarding granting, maintaining, and reviewing accreditation.

The JASANZ Futures Program’s impact is evident in Candice’s achievement, and it continues to serve as a pipeline for cultivating the industry’s future leaders. As we celebrate her appointment to the ARB, we also look forward to the ongoing contributions of the Futures Program participants who will help shape the future of conformity assessment.

We recently interviewed Candice, to learn more about her journey, insights, and vision for the future of conformity assessment.

Introduction 

“Candice, could you start by sharing what initially sparked your interest in the field of conformity assessment and what steps you took early in your career to immerse yourself in this industry?”

I entered directly into quality assurance and I think I never veered far away in the many years since. At the start of my career was building the skills and knowledge to operate within quality systems that were ISO certified. It brought great operational discipline and diligence. Then my interest grew in conformity assessment, demonstrating how systems aligned to requirements in annual assessments was exciting. Then I invested in getting the formal qualifications and getting involved in assessments.

JASANZ Futures Program

“Congratulations on completing the JASANZ Futures Program in 2023! Could you tell us more about the program and what motivated you to participate?”

Management systems and their effectiveness play a critical role in the way organizations manage their risks ranging from safety to legal. At the heart of that are the essential activities that work to assure effectiveness and conformance.  The JASANZ Futures offered a comprehensive view into how the conformity industry operates and I think that was such a unique bit of knowledge to have.

Skills and Knowledge

“What new skills or knowledge did you gain from the JASANZ Futures Program, and how do you envision applying these in the future?”

It was great to see the role that conformity assessment played in public safety consumer protection and across certain sectors like construction across Australia and New Zealand. Its relevance to everyday life and trade was so eye opening and brought insight into how it is applied. Any type of role that is involved in managing the processes for the supply and utilisation of products and services will benefit from this context.

JASANZ Accreditation Board

“As a JASANZ Futures Program graduate, you were invited to join the JASANZ Accreditation Review Board. Congratulations again! What lead you to accept this opportunity and what role do you see yourself playing there?”

This is such a unique opportunity to continue to build knowledge and gain insight into the mechanisms of the ARB and it’s exciting to be a part of that. I already see so many layers of assurance and technical expertise in the process. I think that I bring some fresh eyes a unique perspective to a well-established process and hope to make a contribution through participation as a member.

Future Trends

“From your perspective, what are some of the emerging trends or challenges in the conformity assessment environment? And how do you think we should address these?”

I think that a lot of the expertise and talent within the industry are STEM driven. Globally there has been a decline in the people being attracted to and entering into these types of careers and this bring current and future constraints.  I think that the Futures Programme and similar are great ways to invite and engage new interest into the industry. I think reflection from the experienced workforce on the challenges of the industry with action can be a great way to revitalize the industry and its appeal for the future career seekers.

Advice to Aspiring Professionals

“What advice would you offer to young professionals who are interested in pursuing a career in conformity assessment or a similar field?”

I would say to:

• First, get the experience of working in, maintaining, and optimising management systems. It is the strongest foundation for a start in conformity assessment.
• Commit to a lifelong career of learning, which ranges from investing in professional qualifications to building new skills.
• Curiosity, courage and integrity are the most essential components in the CA toolbox.

Thanks Candice!