Professional Membership

We award Professional Membership to individuals who have demonstrated that they possess Essential Competencies for Professionals.

We built our program on three key ideas:

• an application and evaluation process that assess independent thinking skills and a comprehensive  understanding of our Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice. 
• a program for maintaining and encouraging continuing professional development (CPD) for professionals as they develop their skills, conduct outreach, and make contributions to the field.
• a process for removing the designation from members who either do not meet the minimum required CPD or who, after adjudication, we find to have committed violations of our Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice. 

Who Qualifies

Current individual members who have: 

• undergone either training in a formal graduate program or other education and training that has prepared an individual to practice at a professional level.
• demonstrated their ability to use acquired knowledge to make independent decisions in professional environment for at least two years post training.
• engaged with the field by collaborating with conservators, performing professional outreach, participating in professional development opportunities, maintaining membership in professional organizations, and/or contributing to the body of knowledge for conservation.

Application Process

We have put a moratorium on new applications until we can update the application form and materials with the changes to the program as approved by our membership. We will update these pages soon.

In the meantime, please read through the new membership program's supporting documents below and send any questions to membership@culturalheritage.org.

Why Apply

• Same Dues
  Professional Associates pay the same dues as regular members (not higher). So, you get more member benefits for the same rate.
• One-time application
  Once accepted, you keep the designation for life, barring any Code of Ethics infractions or non-renewal of dues past a five-year grace period.
• Professional Services Location Tool
  Be accessible to the greatest number of potential clients with a listing in our professional services location tool. 
• Marketing materials
  Only professional members can use our designation mark in marketing. Our mark distinguishes you from the many businesses that do not abide by our code of ethics.
• Jobs, Contracts, and Grants
  Many institutions and government agencies value it. The GSA's Fine Arts Policies and Procedures says, "all conservation procedures should... follow the [AIC] Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice... the conservator must have qualifications and experience equivalent to those required to be a Professional Associate or Fellow...."
• Professional Development Opportunities
  Some workshops and courses we run are only open to Professional Associate and Fellow members.
• Scholarship Eligibility
  Some of our scholarships are open only to professional members. This funding helps defray costs for your professional development, including workshops, courses and conferences.
• Leadership Opportunities
  Some volunteer leadership positions within the organization are open only to professional members.  Volunteering is a great way to build your resume and show your leadership skills in the field.
• Respect From Colleagues
  Provide your colleagues with the means to advocate for you. The colleagues you respect and admire think that being a professional member is a valuable part of being a professional. Aspire to join them.

Questions

Contact 202.661.8065 or membership@culturalheritage.org.