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Association Basics: An Essential Training for Association Professionals
Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 10:00 AM to Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 2:30 PM EDT
Category: Training

Build a Strong Foundation in STEM Association Management

CESSE’s Association Basics is the only introductory training designed specifically for professionals working in scientific, technology, engineering, and mathematics societies. This two‑day virtual program provides essential context on how STEM associations operate—from governance and volunteer structures to mission‑driven culture and ethical frameworks.

Ideal for newcomers and seasoned staff alike, the course offers practical insights that can be applied immediately and serves as an excellent onboarding resource for teams entering the STEM association world.

Register Now

Program Details 

The Association Basics course is delivered in two 4.5-hour Zoom sessions. Attendees participate in breakout rooms and use a workbook to engage with other professionals serving STEM-focused associations. The training is facilitated by seasoned leaders within the CESSE community, offering insights grounded in real-world scientific society operations.

Participants will earn 8 CAE credits, and CESSE is also a CMP Preferred Provider.

Pricing Information

  • On/Before Tuesday, February 17: $195
  • After Tuesday, February 17: $225

Once all slots for a session are filled (36 seats available), we will open a waitlist. If you are interested in registering multiple team members, please contact us at [email protected].

CAE Credits

This program is approved for (8) CAE hours toward the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE's) Certified Association Executive (CAE) certification. CESSE is also a CMP Preferred Provider.

As a Result of This Virtual Training, Attendees Will be Able to:

  • List the unique features of non-profits and associations compared to other types of companies.
  • Describe the mission and purpose of your association.
  • Evaluate the life cycle and ownership of associations.
  • Describe and analyze an association's core programs, products, and services.
  • Explain the need to find a balance between “margin” and “mission.”
  • Explain the volunteer governance structure of an association board and its supporting committees.
  • Describe the types of membership, benefits, member engagement, and membership structure.
  • Identify effective techniques for supporting and working with volunteers and their committees.

Content is provided by the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP).

Meet Your Instructors

 Victoria ForliniVictoria Forlini, CAE, MBA

Chief Program and Business Innovation Officer, American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB)

Victoria Forlini has worked for more than 15 years in strategic and operational areas of associations. She has primarily focused on how a clearly communicated vision can elevate an organization and spark engagement from stakeholders. In her previous roles, she has led several major revenue drivers and strategic initiatives, creating success and growth for her past organizations. She has an MBA from Drake University, an MSJ from Northwestern University, and a BA from the University of Iowa, focusing on communications and Asian Languages and Literature

 

 

Frank Krause Headshot

Frank Krause, CAE, MBA
Former CEO, Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB)

Frank J. Krause, Jr., is the former Chief Executive Officer of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB), where his focus was the fulfillment of the FASEB strategic plan and amplifying the collective voice of the Federation’s 30 member societies through joint advocacy and promotion.

Prior to joining the Federation, Krause was the COO of the American Geophysical Union leading strategic transformations of its publishing, meeting, technology groups, culture change, and international growth.  Prior to AGU, Krause served in various roles at the American Medical Association (AMA) leading the publishing, physician database, and customer service teams.  Krause also initiated and developed the business and product development functions for the AMA.  In the for-profit sector, Krause worked in officer and senior management roles primarily for RR Donnelley & Sons.

Krause received his Master of Business Administration degree from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and his bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign.

Krause currently serves as Vice Chair for the Council of Engineering and Scientific Society Executives (CESSE) and has served in various volunteer roles including meeting program co-chair for the CESSE CEO meeting and various committees and peer review boards for the American Society of Association Executives.

Contact: [email protected]