Four leading interior design associations now recognize CEU (Continuing Education Units) credits being offered by the Marble Institute of America (MIA). For several years, the MIA has been an AIA provider of CEUs for members of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). In 2004, MIA introduced the concept of MIA members (through a ‘train the trainer’ program), providing training to architects using MIA’s PowerPoints and the MIA’s AIA CEU provider status. The new expanded MIA CEU program offers multiple presentations to four different interior design association members:

• American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)

• Interior Designers of Canada (IDC)

• Interior Design Educators Council (IDEC)

• International Interior Design Association (IIDA)

“Currently, there are approximately two dozen MIA members enrolled in the CEU program, and collectively, they have conducted over 100 lunch-n-learn programs,” stated Jim Hieb, MIA vice president. “For a modest enrollment price, qualifying MIA members can become known in their marketplace as the source for CEU credits. Once enrolled, members will receive several power point presentations, program training tips and ongoing support.

“The design community will be impressed that MIA members have the ability to present a program offering them CEUs that have been developed by the leading natural stone association,” stated MIA Education Committee Chair Rafael Bernal of Great Lakes Granite & Marble. “The MIA CEU program has been an important part of our architect outreach and I’m pleased we can expand that to designers too.”

Two orientations were conducted at StonExpo in October. As additional orientations become available, they will be announced on the MIA Web site.

Recognizing that not all MIA members have the staff resources or time to prepare and/or present CEU programs, the MIA has made arrangements with a handful of industry veterans to assist members needing presentation assistance.

Members are encouraged to learn more about the program online at:www.marble-institute.com/ceu.