What is the value of ACS membership?

Introduction

  • Often people ask, “Why join ACS?” Given the range of ACS programs, products and services it’s a fair question. But answer it we will! 
  • The following article outlines five invaluable aspects of ACS membership. 

1. Build the management skills that back your technical skills 

Management skills such as communication, critical thinking and problem-solving are increasingly important to demonstrate to employers. ACS members have exclusive, unlimited access to ACS Skillsoft (Learning Accelerator), an online platform with over 11,000 courses. It enables ACS members to stay abreast of the rapid changes in technology and develop both technical and non-technical capabilities. The platform also includes materials for certification exam preparation, such as Microsoft Azure or AWS certifications, ensuring you have the tools needed to achieve recognised credentials.

 

2. Create the connections to power your personal brand

Being part of active and collaborative networks is critical to career success. ACS offers a trusted environment that allows people to build authentic relationships that last throughout one’s career. The next person you talk to maybe your future employer!

Educational events and networking opportunities: 

ACS hosts a variety of high-value events that focus on leadership and technical skills. These events are offered both face-to-face and online, providing flexibility to suit your schedule. Most of these events are free or available at a low cost for members, making it easier for you to continually upskill and expand your professional network without breaking the bank. Additionally, you can join almost 30,000 members from business, government, and education on our closed ACS LinkedIn group to be part of the conversation and further expand your network. 

Local ACS branch support

ACS’s local branches provide additional support and opportunities for networking and professional development. Engaging with your local branch allows you to connect with peers in your area, attend region-specific events, and benefit from localised resources and support.

Access to Technology and Innovation Hubs

Connect, collaborate, and innovate at our Technology and Innovation Hubs. Take advantage of high-tech, digitally enabled spaces exclusively for ACS members and their guests. Hubs are a brilliant collaborative and networking opportunity. ACS members meet peers and entrepreneurs and hear about new start-ups and scale-ups.

Participation and leadership

Your subject matter expertise can also be recognised by serving on committees and task groups within ACS for developing standards, bodies of knowledge, and speaking opportunities. Volunteer to sit on ACS Technical Advisory Boards (TAB), Special Interest Groups (SIG) or speaker opportunities to contribute to sector development, build relationships with like-minded professionals and elevate your personal profile.

 

3. Search for jobs on an exclusive platform

Search for tech roles or advertise jobs with the ACS Career Platform, offering top graduate jobs, internships, and career opportunities in Australia's tech sector. Access career tips, advice, and "day in the life" features to navigate your career path effectively. Whether starting out or advancing, this platform connects you with opportunities tailored to your skills and aspirations.

 

4. Gain access to discounts and offers from leading brands and professional development partners

ACS partners with industry-leading organisations to boost ACS members’ benefits and careers with discounts and member-exclusive offers:

  • Zenva: Advance your career and gain new skills in AI, programming, and game and app creation. ACS members can enjoy access to a one-year Zenva Academy membership at a discounted rate of 30%.

  • Leaders Lounge: Upskill with leadership capabilities to secure higher pay or land a new role. ACS members receive exclusive access, including a 20% discount on Accelerator Sessions, Leadership Coaching, and the Learning Academy.

  • Self Management Group (SMG): Develop a high-performance team with the ACS SMG partnership and your exclusive 15% discount. Access world-class assessment tools to identify high-quality talent.

  • AcudocX: Translate with confidence using NAATI-certified translations. ACS members receive an exclusive 10% discount, simplifying your migration journey with a complete translation management solution.

  • Pearson: Find your competitive edge with an exclusive 20% discount on technical and professional certification e-books from Adobe to Cisco.

  • PM-Partners: Obtain globally recognised certifications in methods like PRINCE2®, ITIL® 4, and Agile with a 20% discount for ACS members. Benefit from classroom and virtual instructor-led programs.

  • Lumify Group: ACS members get a 10% discount on IT training courses, premium access to events, webinars, and first-release training sessions. Choose from over 700 courses to advance your IT skills.

  • Dynamic Web Training: Access a 15% ACS member discount on courses covering Microsoft, Adobe, Web Design, Mobile, Graphic Design, eLearning, Lean Six Sigma, Xero Accounting, and MYOB.

  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Education: Empower yourself as an agent of positive change. Access the TechDiversity Academy and a range of first-class DE&I education programs at a discount of 15%, exclusive to ACS members.

     

ACS membership includes premium rewards that support your professional endeavours and lifestyle. Enjoy discounts and special offers through the following rewards:

  • Ambassador Card: Enjoy lifestyle and leisure benefits at no cost. Valued at $220, the Ambassador Card offers guaranteed savings on dining, entertainment, and accommodation at participating establishments across metropolitan and regional Australia.

  • Qantas Club: Save on travel with an exclusive discount on Qantas Club Corporate Membership. ACS members receive a 30% discount on 1 and 2-year corporate membership fees and the joining fee. This provides access to comfortable travel experiences with exclusive lounges and services.

     

ACS professional and public liability insurance: 

As part of your ACS membership, you can receive professional and public liability insurance valued at nearly $800 if purchased separately. This benefit provides peace of mind, knowing you are protected in your professional endeavours.

 

5. Create trust in your capabilities

Professional recognition and representation are key components of career growth in the IT sector. ACS membership includes access to a range of opportunities to enhance your professional standing and be an active participant in the tech community.

Certification and microcredentials

Third-party assessment of not just your knowledge but, more importantly, demonstrated capability helps you stand out from the crowd and benefits your employer too. ACS Certification and Microcredentials are based on the SFIA, an internationally recognised competency framework, making you a global practitioner. ACS offers discounted certification recognised under the Australian Professional Standards scheme. These certifications are a mark of professional credibility and can significantly enhance your career prospects.

The ACS Professional Standards Scheme (PSS) is a legal obligation. It dictates we monitor, enforce and improve the professional standards of ACS Certified Professionals.  Under the scheme, ACS Certified Professionals are provided with higher standards, quality reporting and a cap to civil liability of $2 million but must comply with insurance, continuous learning and disclosure obligations.

 

Conclusion

ACS members are part of Australia’s largest tech community, which advocates on their behalf and furthers the professionalism of the sector while providing personalised professional development. 

The technology professionals with access to world-class career support, networks and recognition will seize the opportunities presented by Australia’s fast-moving tech sector.

Find out more about ACS Membership benefits and upcoming events or join ACS today and take full advantage of these opportunities to advance your career in technology.

 

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