Featured Stories
40 New Standard Partners Commit to MRAA
BROOKLYN PARK, Minnesota, Oct. 24 -- The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas issued the following news:
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40 New Standard Partners Commit to MRAA
Over a nine-month period, MRAA has added 40 Standard Partners, many of whom will exhibit at the association's annual Dealer Week Conference & Expo. That event is slated for Dec.6-9, in Tampa, Fla.
Nearly All Are Set to Exhibit at Dealer Week 2026, Sharing Unique Expertise and Solutions With Attending Boat Retailers
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MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 23, 2026 -- The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) announces the addition of 40 Standard
... Show Full Article
BROOKLYN PARK, Minnesota, Oct. 24 -- The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas issued the following news:
* * *
40 New Standard Partners Commit to MRAA
Over a nine-month period, MRAA has added 40 Standard Partners, many of whom will exhibit at the association's annual Dealer Week Conference & Expo. That event is slated for Dec.6-9, in Tampa, Fla.
Nearly All Are Set to Exhibit at Dealer Week 2026, Sharing Unique Expertise and Solutions With Attending Boat Retailers
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MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 23, 2026 -- The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) announces the addition of 40 StandardPartners over the last 9 months. The addition of more than three dozen companies expands the network of companies committed to supporting marine retailers and strengthening the boating industry.
The new Standard Partners bring expertise, products and services that support nearly every area of marine retail, including artificial intelligence, dealership technology, marketing, finance, insurance, consulting, manufacturing and accessories. Many will also exhibit at Dealer Week 2026 in Tampa, where their experience and solutions complement the event's educational focus on The New Fundamentals. At the conference, dealers will make new connections and explore resources for their businesses.
MRAA's Partner Membership Program provides companies across the boating ecosystem with opportunities to connect with marine retailers, support dealership success and contribute to the long-term strength of the industry. Standard Partners participate in MRAA initiatives, benefit from industry insights and contribute to dealer-focused solutions throughout the year.
New Standard MRAA Partners
* Off The Hook Yachts: A vertically integrated marine marketplace using technology and a national acquisition network across boat brokerage, wholesale, auctions and financing.
* Pro-Guide Batteries: Provides batteries and chargers for marine applications, backed by 46 years of experience in battery and charger distribution.
* Launch Protection: Offers monthly mechanical and electrical coverage for new and used boats while providing dealerships with an additional F&I opportunity.
* Yacht Logic Apps: Develops technology solutions for the marine market with a customer-first approach to product and service design.
* U.S. Home and Auto: A national insurance provider offering coverage for boats, yachts, sailboats and other watercraft.
* Ilmor Marine: Provides marine propulsion systems for the recreational boating market.
* SeaLift: Offers SeaStep, an electrically or manually actuated system designed to make entering and exiting the water easier from a variety of boats.
* Airhead Sports Group: Provides watersports products designed to help families enjoy more time on the water and outdoors.
* Baker Tilly: An advisory, tax and assurance firm providing customized business solutions designed to generate and sustain growth.
* Seakeeper: Develops marine motion-control technology, including gyrostabilizers and Seakeeper Ride Vessel Attitude Control System.
* Moto Marine Digital: Builds marine dealership websites that integrate with DMS inventory while focusing on search visibility, speed, lead generation and performance measurement.
* Boat Fix: Combines GPS tracking and monitoring with 24/7 alarm monitoring, mechanical assistance and towing dispatch for boat owners and dealerships.
* InventoryFlow: Helps marine dealerships establish e-commerce operations by connecting inventory with online marketplaces, dealer websites, DMS platforms, OEMs and distributors.
* Floating Flame: Produces a fire pit specifically designed for use on boats.
* Boatsonly: Operates an online marketplace where shoppers can browse boats for sale, connect directly with dealers and participate in a boating community.
* DLRdmv: Provides electronic software designed to simplify vehicle title and registration transactions across all 50 states and Washington, D.C.
* Storable Marine: Provides an integrated platform for marinas and on-water businesses encompassing management software, listings, websites, CRM tools, insurance and payments.
* Whitestone Partners: Helps marine dealerships implement prepaid maintenance programs designed to generate F&I and service opportunities while strengthening customer retention.
* Dealer Activation: Helps dealerships implement technology through structured training and accountability, including its 60-Day AI Ignition program.
* Drivian Consulting Group: Provides C-suite-level expertise across dealership financial oversight, operational systems and team execution.
* WakeWorks: Provides dealership software designed to surface real-time information about dealership operations.
* EZ Loader Boat Trailers: Manufactures recreational boat trailers for a range of boats, budgets and boating environments.
* Rec Intelligence: Provides AI agents, websites, marketing tools, inventory analysis and custom AI software solutions for dealerships.
* Shepherd Insurance: Provides insurance and risk-management solutions, including coverage tailored to marinas and lake businesses.
* SideShift: Develops bow and stern thruster systems designed to make docking easier across a range of boat types.
* Quarken Boats: Creates Finnish-built boats combining Nordic design, modular solutions and functionality for life on the water.
* Urable: Provides business-management software combining CRM, bookings, quotes and invoices, inventory and employee management.
* West Marine Pro: Serves marinas, boatyards, dealers, charter operators and other marine businesses with marine parts and supplies, product knowledge and account support.
* Phoenix Rising AI: Provides AI-powered tools supporting functions such as lead generation, communications, customer and dealer support, warranties and CRM.
* Tag My Toy: Supplies boat registration numbers to dealers and offers custom logos designed to complement OEM boat branding.
* SaGo Dealer Services: A nationwide finance brokerage providing consumer and commercial marine loans through a network of lending programs.
* MOTOTV: Provides customizable digital signage for marine, action and powersports dealerships featuring product content, dealership branding, events and products.
* QMI Group: Supplies recreational marine components, including steering wheels, dash panels, glove boxes, grab handles, cup holders, hull logos and custom plastic components.
* ForeStar: Supplies seating and table pedestals for marine and RV OEM manufacturers.
* Tecnografic: Manufactures OEM and custom recreational marine components including dashboards, helm and switch panels, trim components and logos.
* Vision Marine Technologies: Combines electric propulsion technology, integrated marine platforms and the retail and service footprint of Nautical Ventures.
* NauticStar: Builds recreational boats designed for family outings, fishing and cruising with an emphasis on performance, comfort and versatility.
* X Shore: Develops electric boats that combine electric propulsion, contemporary design and an emphasis on reducing environmental impact.
* Desner Boats: Builds RIBS for applications ranging from recreational use and yacht tenders to commercial and professional operations.
"Today's dealers are challenged to run their businesses with a different approach, while adapting to new technology, changing customer expectations and operational demands," said Nichole Wishart, MRAA Account Executive. "This large group of partners bring experience and solutions across many of those areas, strengthening the conversations that will happen at Dealer Week. As exhibitors, they will help deliver actionable insights and innovative solutions our dealer attendees can apply within their operations."
MRAA dealer members are encouraged to connect with participating Standard Partners at Dealer Week 2026 and explore the complete list of companies that support MRAA across its five partnership levels.
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About Dealer Week
For more than 50 years, the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas has delivered world-class education to marine dealers, retailers and service operations that power the boating industry. Dealer Week exists to engage, energize and empower the dealer community. MRAA envisions a brighter future for marine retail, and Dealer Week is a key part of bringing that vision to life. Learn more at dealerweek.com.
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About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA)
The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas is the trusted catalyst for success in the marine retail industry. Dedicated to fueling dealer growth and strengthening the boating experience, MRAA delivers industry-leading insights, expert guidance and proven solutions that assist marine retailers in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities. Through education, advocacy and innovative resources, MRAA empowers dealers to thrive and help drive a stronger, more sustainable marine industry. Learn more at MRAA.com.
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Original text here: https://mraa.com/40-standard-partners-commit-to-mraa/
[Category: Business]
Who Pays When Safety Rules Disappear?
WASHINGTON, Oct. 23 [Category: Consumer Services] -- The Consumer Federation of America posted the following news release:
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Who Pays When Safety Rules Disappear?
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Corporate America often frames deregulation as a matter of "consumer choice" or cutting business costs. That argument leaves out a central point: regulations, especially safety rules, are intended to protect consumers from unreasonable risks. The key question, then, is who benefits when protections are removed, and who bears the costs? A recent tragic death at a Six Flags park in Georgia is a horrifying example of how deregulation
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Oct. 23 [Category: Consumer Services] -- The Consumer Federation of America posted the following news release:
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Who Pays When Safety Rules Disappear?
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Corporate America often frames deregulation as a matter of "consumer choice" or cutting business costs. That argument leaves out a central point: regulations, especially safety rules, are intended to protect consumers from unreasonable risks. The key question, then, is who benefits when protections are removed, and who bears the costs? A recent tragic death at a Six Flags park in Georgia is a horrifying example of how deregulationcan put consumers at serious risk.
The history of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the "roller-coaster loophole" provide a powerful example of how limits on regulation hurt consumers, even leading to serious injury or death. It also shows how industry lobbying can shape the scope of a safety agency's authority. The debate continues today, as the current administration pursues broad deregulatory efforts, and the CPSC itself has adopted this deregulatory narrative too.
The CPSC is a federal agency created in the 1970s to reduce the unreasonable risks of injury and death from consumer products. It develops safety standards, investigates hazards, can ban products in certain cases, and works with companies to initiate product recalls. When it was created, Congress intended CPSC to have significant regulatory and enforcement powers.
Through the 1970s, CPSC asserted authority over amusement rides and investigated ride-related hazards, even issuing formal complaints. In response to CPSC's work to protect consumers from dangerous rides, the trade group representing amusement parks, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), opened a D.C. office in 1980. Unsurprisingly, IAAP opposed federal oversight and "claimed that industry self-regulation and state regulation were sufficient to assure rider safety." Corporate interests and their lobbyists prevailed. In 1981, Congress narrowed the CPSC's authority over amusement rides, excluding rides permanently fixed at a site while leaving many mobile rides within its jurisdiction.
This distinction is often referred to as the "roller-coaster loophole." It means we now have a system where "two identical amusement rides, both produced by the same manufacturer, may be regulated differently," when one ride is permanently affixed to its location and one is moveable. Fixed-site rides may be regulated by state and local authorities, but there is no consistent federal oversight.
The "roller-coaster loophole" was part of a broader effort to restrain and defang the CPSC. Congress also sharply cut the agency's budget. It amended the agency's powers and procedures, including restricting public disclosure of certain company- and product-specific information. Imagine that: a consumer safety agency that must first negotiate the information it discloses with the offending company!
The consequences of weakened oversight and deregulation can be serious, and in this example, even life-threatening. In the U.S., we don't have one reliable statistic for roller-coaster deaths, but we know that roller coaster deaths are not uncommon in the U.S. Approximately, 118 serious injuries occurred at amusement parks in North America, according to the National Safety Council's 2024 amusement ride safety report for the IAAPA.
Of course, the risks of deregulation are not limited to product safety. The savings and loan crisis of the 1980s and the 2008 financial crisis are examples of how regulatory gaps contribute to serious consumer harm.
Today's deregulatory efforts span areas including pollution rules and energy and appliance standards. The consequences for consumers could be enormous in the years to come. The current CPSC has jumped on the "deregulatory" bandwagon, and although its deregulatory actions have been relatively narrow, the agency has adopted the misleading language about cost cutting and consumer choice. I, for one, don't think that cost cutting should be treated as the agency's central purpose. The CPSC's core mission is to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with consumer products. I prefer a strong agency that can set effective safety rules and enforce such rules when companies fail to protect consumers. I prefer a government that lets our agencies do their work without yielding to corporate pressure.
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Original text here: https://consumerfed.org/news/blogs/who-pays-when-safety-rules-disappear/ (TNSmrp)
Which undergrad majors are best for med school?
CHICAGO, Illinois, Oct. 23 [Category: Medical] -- The American Medical Association posted the following news release:
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Which undergrad majors are best for med school?
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Identifying the undergraduate coursework that will make you the best medical school applicant--and eventually help you succeed as a medical student and a physician--is an inexact science. Still, the bulk of prospective medical students tend to follow a science-heavy course trajectory in their studies. Is that the wisest course of action?
A look at the data and insight from veteran faculty members shed some light on the
... Show Full Article
CHICAGO, Illinois, Oct. 23 [Category: Medical] -- The American Medical Association posted the following news release:
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Which undergrad majors are best for med school?
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Identifying the undergraduate coursework that will make you the best medical school applicant--and eventually help you succeed as a medical student and a physician--is an inexact science. Still, the bulk of prospective medical students tend to follow a science-heavy course trajectory in their studies. Is that the wisest course of action?
A look at the data and insight from veteran faculty members shed some light on therelevance of undergraduate majors to medical school performance and physician career paths.
Biology the top major for medical school applicants
According to the most recent data released by the Association of American of Medical Colleges (AAMC), among more than 54,000 candidates who submitted scores on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) as part of their medical school application during the 2025 admissions cycle, roughly 60% had an undergraduate major that could be classified as focusing on biological sciences.
That major, however, didn't necessarily improve the chances an applicant will matriculate to medical school. In total, the AAMC has data tracking 23,440 students who matriculated to medical school--meaning they applied to an institution and enrolled that same academic year--in 2025. The breakdown of primary undergraduate majors in that group generally had a heavy emphasis on science and math, which tend to align with medical school prerequisite requirements, although not necessarily biology.
The most common majors were:
* Biological sciences--13,480 total matriculants.
* Physical sciences--2,175.
* Social sciences--2,014.
* Specialized health sciences--1,041.
* Humanities--755.
* Math and statistics--192.
It is worth noting that the second largest group of matriculants (3,783) tracked by the AAMC fell into the "other" category.
MCAT scores, medical school matriculation by major
The data seems to indicate that no particular major confers an advantage when it comes to medical school admissions. For instance, 30,038 students with majors in the biological sciences applied to medical schools in 2024-2025 cycle. Of that group, 13,480 entered medical school in 2025, a matriculation rate of 42.1%. That figure was lower than the matriculation rates for several other primary majors, including math and statistics (57.3%), humanities (52%) and physical sciences (51.3%).
Among the listed majors, students who had biological sciences majors also had an average total MCAT score of 511.9, which places those applicants in the middle of the group of tracked primary undergraduate majors. The figure was lower than the averages for math and statistics (515.8), physical sciences (513.8), humanities (513), and social sciences (512.2), but slightly higher than those for specialized health sciences (511.1) and other majors (511.7).
Medical students who log in to read the entire article will learn about:
* The average GPA for medical school matriculants by specialty.
* How medical school admissions office evaluate undergraduate majors.
* How the view of non-STEM majors has shifted in med school admissions.
* What majoring in a STEM field means for your performance early in med school.
* The importance of maintaining a broad interest and keeping an open mind during undergrad.
* Reasons humanities majors may pursue patient-facing physician career paths.
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Original text here: https://www.ama-assn.org/medical-students/preparing-medical-school/which-undergrad-majors-are-best-med-school
Three American Soybean Association Leaders Selected for 2026-27 EU-U.S. Young Leaders in Agriculture
ST. LOUIS, Missouri, Oct. 23 -- The American Soybean Association issued the following news release:
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Three American Soybean Association Leaders Selected for 2026-27 EU-U.S. Young Leaders in Agriculture
Oct 22, 2026
The American Soybean Association is pleased to announce that three soybean leaders were selected for the 2026-27 EU-U.S. Young Leaders in Agriculture Fellowship. The yearlong program brings together young farmers from both sides of the Atlantic to exchange knowledge, explore shared challenges, and advance solutions for a more sustainable and profitable agricultural sector.
Selected
... Show Full Article
ST. LOUIS, Missouri, Oct. 23 -- The American Soybean Association issued the following news release:
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Three American Soybean Association Leaders Selected for 2026-27 EU-U.S. Young Leaders in Agriculture
Oct 22, 2026
The American Soybean Association is pleased to announce that three soybean leaders were selected for the 2026-27 EU-U.S. Young Leaders in Agriculture Fellowship. The yearlong program brings together young farmers from both sides of the Atlantic to exchange knowledge, explore shared challenges, and advance solutions for a more sustainable and profitable agricultural sector.
Selectedto represent ASA are:
* Chris Gaesser, Iowa
* Billie Lentz, North Dakota
* Blake Foxley, South Dakota
The fellowship's second year began Sept. 29, 2026, with 24 fellows, including 11 from the United States and 13 from the European Union. Participants will take part in virtual lectures, engage with policymakers and complete weeklong study trips to the EU and the United States.
The program explores agricultural and food policymaking, farm economics, income support programs, production policies, food supply chains, and global markets. Through these experiences, fellows will deepen their understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing agriculture while building relationships with farmers across the Atlantic.
"We are proud to see Chris, Billie, and Blake selected for this opportunity," ASA President Scott Metzger, a soybean farmer from Ohio said. "Learning alongside farmers from the European Union will give them valuable perspectives on agricultural policy, markets, and conservation practices. We look forward to the ideas and experiences they will bring back to their farms and share with the U.S. soybean industry."
The fellows' first study trip begins Oct. 24, with visits to the Netherlands, Brussels, and Belgium, to explore agriculture in policy and practice.
The fellowship is part of the Transatlantic Sustainable Transition Initiative (TSTI) - Building a Resilient Future Together. Led by the Delegation of the European Union to the United States, TSTI supports EU-U.S. collaboration on sustainable agriculture, energy efficiency in buildings and the circular economy. Agricultural organizations on both sides of the Atlantic helped nominate participants based on their commitment to sustainability, leadership experience and interest in international exchange.
ASA congratulates Chris, Billie and Blake on their selection and their continued commitment to agricultural leadership.
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Original text here: https://soygrowers.com/news-releases/three-american-soybean-association-leaders-selected-for-2026-27-eu-u-s-young-leaders-in-agriculture/
[Category: Agriculture]
Stephen Ward Honored With Top ASTM International Annual Award
WEST CONSHOHOCKEN, Pennsylvania, Oct. 23 -- ASTM International, formerly the American Society for Testing and Materials, which develops and publishes voluntary consensus technical standards for materials, products, systems and services, posted the following news release:
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Stephen Ward Honored with Top ASTM International Annual Award
Ward was recognized for influential work on test methods used in the aerospace, automotive, and marine industries.
Oct 21, 2026
ASTM International presented its top annual award - the Award of Merit - to Stephen Ward for his contributions to its composite
... Show Full Article
WEST CONSHOHOCKEN, Pennsylvania, Oct. 23 -- ASTM International, formerly the American Society for Testing and Materials, which develops and publishes voluntary consensus technical standards for materials, products, systems and services, posted the following news release:
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Stephen Ward Honored with Top ASTM International Annual Award
Ward was recognized for influential work on test methods used in the aerospace, automotive, and marine industries.
Oct 21, 2026
ASTM International presented its top annual award - the Award of Merit - to Stephen Ward for his contributions to its compositematerials committee (D30).
The prestigious award, which includes the accompanying title of fellow, is ASTM's highest recognition for distinguished service and outstanding participation in ASTM International committee activities. Ward was recognized for expanding and mentoring D30's membership, for his strong leadership within the committee, and for influential work on test methods used in the aerospace, automotive, and marine industries.
An ASTM International member since 1999, Ward has been previously recognized with three distinguished service awards (2007, 2016, 2021) and the Award of Appreciation (2025).
Ward has been working in the composites industry since 1981 and is currently a part-time senior technical consultant for composite materials and structures design, analysis, testing and certification for aircraft, eVTOLs, and spacecraft. He retired from Collins Aerospace in 2022 as a senior technical fellow, and previously worked for The Boeing Company as a composite materials technical specialist. He received his master of science degree in aeronautical engineering from the University of Washington (1987) and his bachelor of science in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (1981).
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Original text here: https://www.astm.org/news/press-releases/stephen-ward-award-of-merit
[Category: Materials Management]
Drug shortages: Causes, consequences and mitigation efforts
CHICAGO, Illinois, Oct. 23 [Category: Medical] -- The American Medical Association posted the following news release:
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Drug shortages: Causes, consequences and mitigation efforts
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Drug shortages, defined as a period of time in which demand exceeds supply, pose a significant risk to patient care. Drug shortages result in delays and discontinuations of treatment and may take years to resolve.
The AMA has declared drug shortages to be an urgent public health crisis and a national security threat and is actively working to limit the impact on clinical care.
Drug shortage statistics-2026
Drug
... Show Full Article
CHICAGO, Illinois, Oct. 23 [Category: Medical] -- The American Medical Association posted the following news release:
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Drug shortages: Causes, consequences and mitigation efforts
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Drug shortages, defined as a period of time in which demand exceeds supply, pose a significant risk to patient care. Drug shortages result in delays and discontinuations of treatment and may take years to resolve.
The AMA has declared drug shortages to be an urgent public health crisis and a national security threat and is actively working to limit the impact on clinical care.
Drug shortage statistics-2026
Drugshortages impact physicians and patients
Recent research
A 2026 study by the AMA, published in JAMA Network Open, investigated the outcomes associated with drug shortages among primary care physicians (PCPs) and patients, including pervasiveness, treatment changes and outcomes, and administrative burdens.
Report a drug shortage
Current drug shortages lists
* Current drug shortage database from ASHP
The ASHP drug shortages database is based on reports from healthcare practitioners or patients/caregivers, which is then verified with manufacturers by the University of Utah Drug Information Service to confirm the shortage status for inclusion in its list.
* Current drug shortage database from FDA
The FDA collects drug shortage information for its database directly from the drug manufacturers via their voluntary submission of information and includes a drug on the shortage list when a manufacturer cannot meet current market demand as self-identified.
* 2025 Vulnerable Medicine List (PDF) from U.S. Pharmacopeia
Understanding causes of drug shortages
Combating drug shortages
AMA actions on drug shortages
* The AMA is a founding member of the Drug Shortages Task Force. See the Call to Action, policy initiatives and stories from the community.
* The AMA Council on Science and Public Health (CSAPH) writes an annual report on drug shortages. Find the reports here.
AMA advocacy efforts
The AMA actively advocates with members of Congress, various congressional subcommittees and multiple federal agencies. Learn more about these efforts:
* AMA letter to Senate on draft legislation to combat prescription drug shortages (PDF)
* AMA letter to Federal Trade Commission on drug shortages (PDF)
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Original text here: https://www.ama-assn.org/health-care-advocacy/federal-advocacy/drug-shortages-causes-consequences-and-mitigation-efforts (TNSmlt) (TNSmrp)
CompTIA Launches Effort to Define Workforce Skills for AI Agents
DOWNERS GROVE, Illinois, Oct. 23 (TNSrpt) -- CompTIA posted the following news release:
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CompTIA launches effort to define workforce skills for AI agents
CompTIA AgentOps+ certification will validate skills to deploy, secure and govern AI agents
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DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. - Artificial intelligence (AI) agents are rapidly moving into enterprise operations, but the skills needed to manage them responsibly remain undefined. CompTIA today announced plans to develop a new credential to define and validate those skills.
CompTIA AgentOps+ is intended to establish a vendor-neutral standard for professionals
... Show Full Article
DOWNERS GROVE, Illinois, Oct. 23 (TNSrpt) -- CompTIA posted the following news release:
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CompTIA launches effort to define workforce skills for AI agents
CompTIA AgentOps+ certification will validate skills to deploy, secure and govern AI agents
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DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. - Artificial intelligence (AI) agents are rapidly moving into enterprise operations, but the skills needed to manage them responsibly remain undefined. CompTIA today announced plans to develop a new credential to define and validate those skills.
CompTIA AgentOps+ is intended to establish a vendor-neutral standard for professionalswho deploy, secure, monitor and govern AI agents. The certification addresses an emerging discipline spanning AI, cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure and IT operations.
"The focus has been on what AI agents can do, but the more urgent question is who will secure, govern and be accountable for them," said Carl Bowman, senior vice president, exam services, CompTIA. "As agents gain access to enterprise data and workflows, organizations need professionals who can manage them securely and responsibly. CompTIA intends to help define that standard."
More than half (54%) of organizations are actively deploying AI agents, according to KPMG's first-quarter 2026 "AI Quarterly Pulse Survey."[1] The shift promises productivity gains but introduces new security, governance and operational risks. Deloitte found that only 21% of surveyed companies have a mature governance model for autonomous agents.[2]
CompTIA AgentOps+ is being designed around durable operational principles rather than the products or services of a single technology provider. The planned certification is expected to validate skills in:
* Deploying and integrating AI agents
* Securing agent identities, permissions and data access
* Monitoring performance, behavior and operational health
* Identifying and responding to agent-related risks and incidents
* Supporting governance, accountability, auditability and human oversight
The certification is intended for professionals in DevOps, cloud operations, platform engineering, systems administration and cybersecurity. For employers, the certification will offer a way to upskill staff and validate AI operations skills. Educational institutions and training providers can prepare learners for emerging AI operations roles.
CompTIA AgentOps+ and a comprehensive suite of related learning products are planned for release in Q2 2027.
[1] "AI Quarterly Pulse Survey Q1 2026," (https://view.ceros.com/kpmg-design/kpmg-genai-study/p/2) KPMG, March 31, 2026.
[2] "State of AI in the Enterprise," Deloitte, January 2026.
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About CompTIA
CompTIA, Inc. is the leading global provider of vendor-neutral training and certification products in the information technology (IT) space. Over four million CompTIA certifications have been awarded to current and aspiring technology workers, business professionals, government and military personnel, career changers, students and others. Working in partnership with thousands of academic institutions, governments, training providers and workforce development organizations, CompTIA uses best-in-class learning solutions, industry-recognized certifications and career resources to help job seekers reach their full potential and employers develop skilled technical talent. Learn more at https://www.comptia.org/.
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REPORT: https://www.deloitte.com/content/dam/assets-zone3/us/en/docs/services/consulting/2026/state-of-ai-2026.pdf
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Original text here: https://www.comptia.org/en-us/about-us/news/press-releases/CompTIA-launches-effort-to-define-workforce-skills-for-AI-agents/
[Category: Computer Technology]
