February 3, 2020
Media Contact:
Scott Peterson, Director of Communications, Office of Public Information, 202-277-9412
ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Last week, Governor Hogan recognized four Howard County Government officials among 40 professionals in the State who are now Certified Climate Change Professionals®, an international credential administered by the Association of Climate Change Officers (ACCO). The certifications were earned after satisfying the credentialing requirements including six days of training, passing four exams, and satisfying 14 hours of elective requirements.
“Climate change is a critical issue facing our planet and our community,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. “I’m very proud of our outstanding County employees who received this certification, not only for learning how to make Howard County more resilient against climate change, but for their efforts to create a more sustainable environment and safer community for all.”
Maryland is the first state to formally recognize the ACCO credential. The four officials included, Mike Hinson, Maria Bernadzikowski, Chris Meyer, and Katie Canady all from the Office of Emergency Management. Two others in the County have completed their applications for certification, but the request is pending.
About the Certified Climate Change Professional® (CC-P®)
The Certified Climate Change Professional® (CC-P®) is the credential for mid-level practitioners reflecting their dedication to professional development and competency in the fundamentals of climate change preparedness and strategic planning. A combination of related work experience, passing 4 CC-P® exams and 14 hours of elective requirements are required for this designation. The program is administered by the Association of Climate Change Officers. For more information about the CC-P®, please visit www.climateofficers.org/credentials.
About the Association of Climate Change Officers
The Association of Climate Change Officers (ACCO) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit membership organization for executives and officials worldwide in industry, government, academia and the non-profit community. ACCO’s mission is to define, develop and support the functions, resources and communities necessary for effective organizational leadership in addressing climate-related risks and opportunities. For more information about ACCO, please visit www.ClimateOfficers.org.