Accreditation and Certification Basics: Why They Matter

Bradley Duncan, M.Ed.H.D., Senior Director of Certification, NPMA 

In today’s competitive and regulated business environment, terms like credentialing, accreditation, certification, and professional standards are gaining traction across industries. If these concepts seem unfamiliar or raise questions, you’re not alone. Understanding these distinctions has become increasingly important as credentials help businesses, professionals, and job seekers gain a competitive edge by demonstrating knowledge, accountability, and professionalism. 

Understanding Credentialing 

Credentialing is the process of verifying and validating an organization’s or individual’s qualifications, skills, and experience. This verification serves multiple stakeholders: It provides clients with public assurance when selecting professional services, gives businesses confidence that candidates possess the necessary knowledge and skills for effectiveness in their roles, and helps job seekers with credentials stand out among other applicants. 

Professional standards typically guide credentialing processes, establishing the accepted norms, behaviors, and expectations that govern how businesses and individuals conduct themselves within specific professions. These standards help ensure quality, integrity, and consistency in work performance and are usually set by professional organizations, regulatory bodies, or industry leaders. 

Accreditation Versus Certification: Understanding the Difference 

Two primary ways to demonstrate professional standards are through company accreditation and individual credentialing. Though often confused, these recognitions serve different but equally valuable purposes, benefiting not only those who earn them but also the clients they serve. 

Company Accreditation 

Accreditation is a third-party evaluation system conducted by an industry authority. Unlike a one-time achievement, accreditation requires companies to demonstrate ongoing maintenance of professional standards throughout their accreditation term through renewal and audit processes. 

In the pest control industry, QualityPro exemplifies this approach by setting excellence standards for professional pest management companies and their employees through education, training, and certification. This provides clients with protection and confidence when selecting a QualityPro-accredited company. Administered by an independent organization that has been developing business practices and standards since 2004, QualityPro is designed specifically for pest management companies in the United States and Canada. The program currently certifies more than 500 of the industry’s leading companies and is endorsed by NPMA. 

Individual Credentialing: Certificates Versus Certifications 

Individual credentialing takes two primary forms: certificates and certifications, each serving distinct purposes. 

A certificate provides evidence that an individual has attended a course, training, or similar learning event. Earning a certificate typically does not require demonstrating learning through testing and does not involve a renewal process. 

Certification, conversely, requires individuals to demonstrate knowledge, skills, and other requirements through rigorous testing. Similar to company accreditation, certified individuals must periodically meet renewal requirements, such as continuing education or professional development, to maintain their certification status. 

Industry Example: NPMA Pro Certified 

The pest control industry offers a concrete example of individual certification through NPMA Pro Certified, an individual certification program that recognizes pest management professionals for their expertise and dedication to industry standards. Launched in 2025, NPMA Pro Certified is designed for dedicated pest management professionals seeking to demonstrate their commitment to excellence, mastery of industry best practices, and comprehensive understanding of critical topics including pests, laws,  safety, professionalism, integrated pest management (IPM), and equipment. 

The program is accessible to anyone with at least one year of field experience in pest management, regardless of QualityPro status or NPMA membership. Candidates must pass a comprehensive 150-question examination covering six core areas: pests, laws and regulations, safety, industry professionalism, IPM, and equipment. 

The Value Proposition 

Professional credentials serve as powerful differentiators in an increasingly competitive marketplace. They provide measurable proof of competency and commitment to professional excellence, creating value for all stakeholders involved. For businesses, credentials help ensure quality service delivery and risk mitigation. For professionals, they offer career advancement opportunities and industry recognition. For clients, they provide confidence and assurance in service provider selection. 

As industries continue to evolve and become more specialized, the importance of credentialing, accreditation, and certification will only grow. These systems create frameworks for maintaining and advancing professional standards, ultimately benefiting entire industries and the clients they serve.  

If QualityPro or NPMA Pro Certified can help you achieve a competitive edge, please reach out to qualitypro@pestworld.org or npmapro@pestworld.org.