This is an exciting time for ICMA and the global card community. As our industry continues to evolve, we are creating new opportunities for professionals and organizations to strengthen their expertise, showcase their capabilities and connect with the people and ideas shaping what comes next.

The card industry extends far beyond manufacturing. Every payment credential, government ID, transit pass, employee badge, loyalty card and secure credential depends on collaboration across a diverse network of manufacturers, personalizers, suppliers, technology providers, issuers, designers and security specialists. ICMA is proud to bring this global ecosystem together and help its members discover new possibilities across markets.

Our recent launch of the ICMA Advanced Card Education – Manufacturing (ACE-M) Accreditation Examination online through Brightest is an important step forward. With remotely proctored and on-site testing options, professionals worldwide now have a modern and accessible way to demonstrate their knowledge, strengthen their credentials and advance within the industry.

We are also helping member companies raise their visibility through the ICMA Public Member Directory. The directory connects prospective customers, partners and industry professionals with the expertise available throughout our association. I encourage every member to review and update their profile so others can easily discover everything their organization has to offer.

That commitment to building connections was also evident in ICMA’s recent sponsorship of the Fintech Fashion Exchange during New York Fashion Week. This energizing event brought together leaders from the card, fintech and fashion industries to explore how personalization, technology and changing consumer expectations are influencing each sector. ICMA President Megan Anthony, ACE-M, ACE-P, of CPI, represented our industry during a fireside chat that highlighted the power of exchanging ideas with adjacent markets and introducing new audiences to the innovation taking place across the card ecosystem.

The momentum continues with CardTREX 2026, taking place October 27–28 at the Lohmann TEC Center in Neuwied, Germany. Attendees will experience new technologies in action, learn directly from industry experts and build relationships with professionals from across the global card community.

These initiatives reflect what ICMA does best: bringing our industry together and creating opportunities for our members to learn, connect and grow. I am excited about what lies ahead and encourage you to take full advantage of all that ICMA has to offer.