Summary:                           The World Trade Center Kentucky (WTC-KY), through its affiliation with the World Trade Centers Association, offers a yearly certification program for the international business community.   This program, comprised of four individual seminars and taught by experts from banking, tax, legal, academia, customs compliance, market intelligence, freight forwarding, customs brokerage and government, will lead to the certification of International Commerce Specialist. The skills and knowledge gained from this certification program will provide the foundation for effective and efficient management of a company's international trade operations.  In addition, the program is designed to develop skilled professionals in international trade that can spearhead the future growth of US trade.  We are honored to have UPS and Frost Brown Todd as our sponsors for this year's program.

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Who should attend?

The program is intended for a wide variety of roles and functions including sales managers, international logistics specialists, trade compliance analysts, credit managers, certified public accountants, marketing specialists, economic development specialists among other roles.   Anyone who works in a role which has a direct or indirect connection with international trade can benefit from this program.

Do I need a background in international trade to attend?

No.  This program does not require any previous course work.

What topics are covered?

The certification program is comprised of four separate seminars:

• Market Research 101 (March 15 - Lexington)
• International Legal Considerations (April 12 - Lexington)
• International Payment and Export Financing (May 24 - Louisville)
• Import/Export Logistics and Compliance (June 28 - Louisville)

As an added bonus, the WTC-KY has arranged for a global economic briefing to be provided by the Economist Intelligence Unit during the May 24th seminar.

Where will these seminars be held?

All seminars wil be held at the offices of Frost Brown Todd in Louisville or Lexington.

What is the cost for the entire program?

WTC members - $550  ($500 - early registration by February 15)

Regular registration - $750 ($700 - early registration by February 15)

Note:  Qualifying companies may be eligible for grant-funded assistance through the STEP grant.   Please contact Darren Srebnick for additional information.

What are the requirements for certification?

Attendance at all four seminars and score of 70% on online examination.

What is the registration deadline?

The registration deadline is 5 pm on March 14.

Who do I contact for more questions?

Please contact Darren Srebnick at the World Trade Center for more information.

Darren Srebnick

International Trade Specialist

World Trade Center Kentucky

e-mail:  darren.srebnick@louisvilleky.gov

phone:  502-574-1514

I found the International Trade Certification program quite beneficial to my role as we are experiencing increased business opportunities overseas.  The program was thorough, covering a range of pertinent topics from market entry strategies to details on shipments, INCOTERMS and free trade agreements. WTC-KY  secured highly experienced local individuals to cover the discussion topics, allowing for tailored group discussions.  I highly recommend this program  as it provides the background required to be a knowledgeable participant in international business. 

Stephannie Block

Business Manager

Momentive Chemical

The International Trade Certification Program was well worth my time.  About half of the information provided applied directly to my position in export compliance and the rest I found interesting enough to take back to my coworkers.  The expert keynote speakers were appreciated.  All other aspects of the seminar were well planned and accomodating.