Letter from the President.

In 1975, IAS issued its first formal accreditation to a structural testing laboratory in California. Accreditation of this laboratory, owned by the well-known structural engineer Robert Haussler, was based on criteria derived from the requirements developed by the U.S. aerospace and defense industries. At that time, laboratories, inspection agencies and product listing and certification agencies were all "recognized" in the Uniform Building Code under the broad classification of "approved agencies." Now, 40 years later, I look back in history with satisfaction that IAS has been at the forefront of the development of ISO standards on accreditation and in establishment of international mutual recognition arrangements to enhance the value of accreditation. In its 40-plus years of existence, IAS has more than satisfied market needs accreditation by offering a portfolio of almost 800 accredited entities in 15 different fields of accreditation. A noteworthy milestone in IAS history is establishment of a new management position titled senior vice president with Raj Nathan assuming the role as of January 1, 2015. This very crucial appointment coupled with completion of operational restructuring will ensure smooth transition of the leadership in the coming years. On February 9, 2015, the IAS Accreditation Committee held its open public hearing in Los Angeles to consider for approval new criteria and revisions to existing accreditation criteria. The Accreditation Committee also reviews and approves IAS management documentation, subject to input from interested parties and stakeholders. This meeting was webcast with people participating from six countries. The feedback received from several overseas participants indicates that webcasting provides the unique opportunity to actively follow and participate in the development of IAS accreditation criteria and operational protocol. Much work awaits our staff and contractors as we put the finishing touches to our new Management Systems Certification accreditation program and secure international recognition via signatory status with the Pacific Accreditation Cooperation. Later this year, IAS plans on celebrating its 40th year of successful operations which gives us the opportunity to showcase the very best in IAS and recognize our loyal supporters. Chuck Ramani, PE, CBO IAS President

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