What do Those Extra Letters Mean? Professional Designations in Technology Transfer

Many members of our team carry additional letters behind their names, most being readily recognizable such as Ph.D., J.D., or M.B.A.; but what do the others you see mean, such as CLP and RTTP?

Like many professions, these are certifications and designations attained by those in the technology transfer and licensing fields that are conferred and administered by the professional societies our team members participate in, namely, the Licensing Executive Society and the Alliance of Technology Transfer Professionals. For our field, these designations signify that a technology transfer professional has met a certain level of proficiency and experience; for our organization these designations add an additional level of credibility with those whom we do business, both externally and internally.

Certified Licensing Professional (CLP) – Administered by the Licensing Executives Society, CLP distinguishes professionals who have demonstrated their experience, knowledge, and skill in the fields of licensing and commercialization of intellectual property. More than 900 individuals worldwide that work in the areas of patenting, marketing, valuation, IP law, negotiation, and intellectual asset management have earned the CLP credential. Candidates for the CLP designation must have at least 3 years of licensing experience, have a Bachelor’s degree, and pass a proficiency exam.

Registered Technology Transfer Professional (RTTP) – Administered by the Alliance of Technology Transfer Professionals, RTTP recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high-level of competence and commitment to the technology transfer profession. Qualifying applicants can function in a variety of roles within the profession ranging from technology management to licensing and marketing. Candidates must submit an application form, supporting documentation, and a case study or demonstration of experience as outlined by the organization, which is reviewed by a panel of industry leaders for approval.

OTT is proud to have six Certified Licensing Professionals and two Registered Technology Transfer Professionals on staff and actively encourages team members to pursue these and other professional designations. According to Executive Director, Todd Sherer, himself both CLP and RTTP, “These certification programs allow our team members to demonstrate and be recognized for their performance in our industry. For our faculty and corporate partners they provide an extra layer of confidence, assuring them that they are dealing with skilled professionals when they work with our team.” For more information about the CLP & RTTP programs please see www.licensingcertification.org/ & http://www.attp.info/.