At the IFPS Spring Meeting, held in New Orleans, February 27-March 2, more than 90% of attendees were in person.
It was noted that the Education Committee has continued to develop new training videos to help with certification preparation. Since the IFPS’ Fall meeting in San Diego, the society has developed two new educational videos visible to members only: Proper Identification of Fasteners and Fittings and a Fluid Power Symbology video. The committee will continue to develop these of types of videos. The Education Committee has also continued to diligently work on releasing brand-new IFPS safety posters. The feedback on the newly released Fluid Power Math & Hydraulic Mechanic Training Modules is excellent, and they are selling well, said Donna Pollander, IFPS CEO.
IFPS is offering members-only symbology training videos, as well as a video on fittings and fasteners.
The IFPS has also successfully conducted two Fluid Power Fundamentals Courses in conjunction with Waukesha County Technical College. “This course is a firm foundation for anyone who wants to learn fluid power basics, and IFPS will continue to offer them for as long as they remain popular,” Pollander said.
In addition, IFPS was presented with an opportunity to partner with the Auburn Career Center in Greater Cleveland to use IFPS certifications as the basis for their curriculum starting with the Connector & Conductor (C&C) certification. The C&C pilot occurred in January and finished in February. “Based on the initial feedback, the pilot was a success! The advisory committee will meet soon to debrief and start planning the second semester,” Pollander said. “The IFPS hopes to launch more programs like this in other locations. IFPS has launched an instructor-led HS Review Training course, a 12-week Certification Review led by Tom Blansett. The committee has plans to run these types of courses in the future, starting with the Pneumatic Specialist Certification in late summer/early fall.”
IFPS members break for a tour during the annual Spring Meeting in New Orleans.
Certified members interested in participating on any of the subcommittees should email Donna Pollander at Dpollander@ifps.org. The committee plans to upgrade the pneumatic mechanic once the technician certifications are underway.
Other IFPS news includes:
- The Hydraulic Specialist test translation to Spanish is complete and is available to purchase. The committee will begin working on the translation of the MHM written test this month.
- Additionally, a new grant program is available for educators to obtain their first certification – free.
- The mentorship program, which was launched last year, will continue but will limit the mentors and mentees to five, with additional clearer communication.
- A fully upgraded C&C Certification Study Manual and test is set for late spring/early summer 2023.
- Updated materials for the MHM (Mobile Hydraulic Mechanic) certification test and a major revision of the ECS (Electronic Controls Specialist) certification will be released this fall.
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