North Georgia Promotions' LaFave Achieves Industry Certification

Shawn H. LaFave, of North Georgia Promotions, Alpharetta, Ga., earned the certification of Certified Advertising Specialist (CAS), administered by Promotional Products Association International (PPAI), the largest international not-for-profit association for more than 15,000 members of the $21-plus billion promotional products industry.
 
The CAS, Master Advertising Specialist (MAS) and Master Advertising Specialist Plus (MAS+) Certifications are the promotional products industry's premier professional designations. Individuals with a PPAI Certification are industry leaders — those who have attained a higher standard of professional competence, knowledge and experience. PPAI industry certification is acquired through a combination of: required certification classes, demonstrated years of employment in the industry, education, industry contributions and a successful demonstration of expertise. Certification is maintained through continuing education to ensure current knowledge and leading-edge professional skills.
 
CAS Certification requires 75 hours from a structured industry-approved curriculum, a minimum three years of experience in the promotional products industry and a passing score on the CAS Certification exam. The rigorous curriculum required includes an overview of the promotional products industry, promotional programs, best practices/ supplier-distributor relations, advertising and marketing overview, product safety basics and business ethics. Upon completion of the core curriculum, individuals then can structure their own course schedules to deliver the greatest relevance and value for their careers.
 
The MAS Certification requires completion of and current CAS Certification, a minimum five years of experience in the promotional products industry, additional MAS level course curriculum, industry service and passing a comprehensive exam.
 
The MAS+ Certification is an advanced industry program targeted toward seasoned promotional products professionals with seven or more years of industry experience. This project-based certification requires demonstrating advanced promotional products industry knowledge with the submittal of a work product in lieu of a comprehensive examination.
 
Through industry certification, promotional products professionals can earn the designations of CAS, MAS or MAS+. PPAI Certification demonstrates a commitment to both business excellence and continual professional growth. A relatively small percentage of professionals hold these certifications and are known as the industry’s innovators and leaders. PPAI Certification Program has been recognized as a reliable indicator of professionalism and excellence in the promotional products industry. For more information on the CAS, MAS, MAS+ Certifications, please visit www.ppai.org/certification or e-mail Certification@ppai.org.
 
The promotional products medium is an essential element in the marketing communications mix. A “branded” tangible product turns an ordinary message into a marketing experience an audience can see, touch, hear, smell and even taste. Promotional products are one of the most efficient and effective media buys with the advertising industry.