Credentialing applies to individuals. It is the process of measuring a single person’s skills against national industry standards. To earn 99% of NIMS credentials, an individual completes competency-based performance and theory assessments.

Key competencies include:

• Knowledge
• Skills
• Abilities

Accreditation applies to a training program. It is the process of measuring a training program’s key components against national industry standards.

Key components include:

• Program purpose
• Facilities
• Equipment
• Program features
• Instructional staff / trainers
• Administration / management