Shaping the Future of Fluid Power, One Professional at a Time By Donna Pollander, IFPS CEO

By Donna Pollander, IFPS CEO

At the International Fluid Power Society (IFPS), our mission goes beyond certification. We’re here to support the entire lifecycle of a fluid power professional—through education, training, and a deep-rooted commitment to safety.

Over time, IFPS has evolved into a dynamic global organization that supports mechanics, technicians, sales professionals, engineers, and educators across the fluid power industry—whether they are users, distributors, or manufacturers. Whether on the shop floor, in a classroom, or designing the next generation of hydraulic or pneumatic systems, we’re here to provide the tools and support you need to succeed. From on-demand videos and study guides to hands-on training and safety resources, IFPS is proud to be the industry’s trusted source for professional development.

Currently, we host more than 75 educational videos on our website—many of them free to the public, and even more accessible to members. We provide modular, self-paced training options for several of our eleven certification tracks, making it easier for professionals to pursue credentials on their own schedules. Robust safety guidelines and best practices are integrated into all of our certifications and study guides, and are continually updated in collaboration with industry experts.

Certification at IFPS is more than a credential—it’s a reflection of practical knowledge and job-ready expertise. Our programs are built around real-world applications and tailored to specific industry roles, from mechanics to system designers. Whether pursuing a Hydraulic Specialist, Pneumatic Specialist, or Mobile Hydraulic Mechanic certification, professionals can count on IFPS to set high standards and help them reach them.

Two certifications I would like to highlight are our Fluid Power Support Associate (SA) certification and our Electronic Controls Certification (ECS).

The Fluid Power Support Associate (SA) is a new certification designed for individuals who are either entering the industry or working in non-technical roles. It ensures a foundational understanding of fluid power terminology and basic components. Many companies use the SA certification as a stepping-stone to more technical certifications and have used the training modules as an effective onboarding tool to introduce new team members to fluid power fundamentals.

The Electronic Controls Specialist (ECS) certification has been fully updated to reflect advancements in electrohydraulic/pneumatic technology. It is ideal for professionals seeking to validate their skills in electronic control systems; this certification covers system integration, sensor technologies, closed-loop control, and current industry standards. It’s an essential credential for staying competitive in today’s increasingly digital fluid power landscape. The study manual is also an excellent desktop reference for all those working with electronic controls of fluid power!

Beyond certification, we are deeply committed to education. Our reference materials, webinars, and training tools are designed to support working professionals and students alike. The Fluid Power Reference Handbook, widely used in industry and academia, remains a cornerstone of our educational offerings.

We also recognize that safety is not optional in this line of work—it’s essential! Every IFPS certification integrates safety education, covering topics such as lockout/tagout procedures, hose handling, and fluid injection injury prevention. Our goal is simple: ensure that every individual trained and certified through IFPS can work confidently and safely.

One of the most valuable aspects of IFPS is our community. We are proud to bring together thousands of professionals from across the globe. Through mentorship programs, technical workshops, annual meetings, and volunteer opportunities, we create space for connection, leadership, and shared learning.

For employers, the benefits of IFPS certification are clear. Certified professionals are safer, more productive, and more engaged. Companies that invest in training through IFPS report more employee confidence, stronger problem-solving, and higher retention rates across the board.

As the industry continues to evolve, IFPS is evolving right alongside it. We’re committed to ensuring our certifications, training, and educational programs remain relevant, effective, and forward-thinking.

To all fluid power professionals, whether you’re just starting out or decades into your career—I invite you to explore everything IFPS has to offer. Together, we can build a smarter, safer, and stronger future for our industry.