Why AL-CIP Certification Is a Game-Changer; Apply by February 28, 2025

Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc.

(Logo credit to CBIC)

As infection prevention and control (IPC) professionals face increasing responsibilities and growing complexities in health care settings, the need for strong leadership has never been greater. The Advanced Leadership Certification in Infection Prevention (AL-CIP), offered by the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC), provides experienced infection preventionists (IPs) a unique opportunity to showcase their expertise, strategic thinking, and leadership skills.

Applications close on February 28, 2025.

For many professionals, obtaining the AL-CIP is more than just a certification—it is a testament to their dedication to advancing patient safety and infection control practices. Leaders in the field, including

• Gail Fraine, RN, MMHC, BSN, AL-CIP, CIC, LTC-CIP,
• Erin (Beck) Wilder, MPH, RN, AL-CIP, CIC, CPHQ, LSSBB,
• Dr Sobhan Qadir, MBBS, CIC, MCPS, MSPH, CHQP,
• Kornelija Delibasic, MSc, BASc, CPHI (C), AL-CIP, CIC, and
• Mohammad Mhawish, RN, MSN, CIC, AL-CIP,

have pursued this prestigious credential to validate their knowledge, influence organizational decision-making, and further their careers.

In this article, AL-CIP recipients share their motivations for applying, how the certification has impacted their careers, and why they encourage others to take this transformative step in their professional journey. If you are an infection preventionist looking to establish yourself as a leader, now is the time to apply for the AL-CIP before the opportunity passes.

Let’s explore the experiences of those who have achieved this advanced certification and the invaluable insights they offer to future applicants.

• Gail Fraine, MMHC, BSN, RN, AL-CIP, CIC, LTC-CIP, system director of infection prevention

ICT: Why did you apply for the AL-CIP?

Gail Fraine, MMHC, BSN, RN, AL-CIP, CIC, LTC-CIP: The role of infection prevention and control (IPC) is rapidly evolving with increasing responsibilities and managing complexities in the various healthcare settings. Infection preventionists must continue to grow and develop in knowledge and expertise to meet these challenges.

As a leader in infection prevention (IP), I wanted to demonstrate my abilities, skill, and knowledge by completing the AL-CIP portfolio. This opportunity provided an assessment of my professional expertise, vision of leadership, and impact on IPC programs to prevent infections and improve patient outcomes.

I hope to inspire others to share their leadership skills and influence to further impact infection prevention and control by demonstrating their expertise by obtaining the AL-CIP.

ICT: How does obtaining the AL-CIP certification impact your career growth and leadership opportunities as an IPC professional?

GF: The AL-CIP provides credibility for potential advanced career opportunities.

The goal of the new certification, Advanced Leadership in Infection Prevention and Control, is to showcase the IP leadership skillset to the C-level suite, leaders, regulatory bodies, and experts in the field to acknowledge the broad realm of expertise by achieving the AL-CIP.

ICT: What advice do you have for others who want to apply for the AL-CIP?

GF: IP leaders serve in various roles across the healthcare continuum with work that impacts various settings and populations. Take the opportunity to demonstrate your expertise and leadership skills by earning the AL-CIP.

Refer to the CBIC website to review the AL-CIP handbook, FAQ, and requirements. Develop your strategy to meet the competency and subcompetency by defining your leadership experiences and impact.

• Erin (Beck) Wilder, MPH, RN, AL-CIP, CIC, CPHQ, LSSBB, the director of infection prevention for Kootenai Health in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

ICT: Why did you apply for the AL-CIP?

Erin (Beck) Wilder, MPH, RN, AL-CIP, CIC, CPHQ, LSSBB: I pursued the AL-CIP as a personal and professional challenge. This advanced certification signifies a high level of expertise in infection prevention and leadership, going beyond fundamental knowledge and technical skills. Achieving this certification objectively validates my growth, impact, and commitment to the field. It also reinforces my ability to drive meaningful change in infection prevention at an organizational level.

ICT: How does obtaining the AL-CIP certification impact your career growth and leadership opportunities as an IPC professional?

EW: The AL-CIP certification demonstrates advanced leadership competency and strategic expertise in infection prevention, distinguishing me as a leader in the field. It provides a competitive edge when pursuing leadership roles and strengthens my ability to influence organizational decision-making, mentor others, and implement system-wide improvements. This certification not only validates my expertise but also enhances my ability to advocate for infection prevention at the executive level.

ICT: What advice do you have for others who want to apply for the AL-CIP?

EW: I strongly encourage others to pursue the AL-CIP. The application process, while rigorous, is an incredibly valuable experience. Compiling your professional portfolio allows you to reflect on your accomplishments, leadership impact, and professional growth.

Initially, I questioned whether my experience met the certification criteria. However, by taking a step-by-step, structured approach to writing my rationales and following the application guidelines closely, I gained a deeper appreciation for the significance of my contributions. This process not only made writing my rationales easier but also helped me recognize and celebrate both my successes and the lessons learned from challenges along the way. The effort is absolutely worth it!

• Kornelija Delibasic, MSc, BASc, CPHI (C), AL-CIP (CIC), Environmental Inspector/Consultant with the Ministry of Long-Term Care

Kornelija Delibasic, MSc, BASc, CPHI (C), AL-CIP, CIC: Currently, I work as an environmental inspector/consultant with the Ministry of Long-Term Care. With over 20 years of experience in Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) and Public Health, I've developed a comprehensive understanding of this field. I earned my Infection Control (CIC) certification in 2012 and have been a certified Public Health Inspector in Canada (CPHI(C)) since 2006.

As an active Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) Canada Association member, I also serve on the executive committee of the IPAC GTA chapter. Throughout my career, I've held various roles in public health, acute care, nonprofits, and adult education. My work in IPAC has not only allowed me to grow professionally but also fostered continuous learning and the application of best practices to safeguard the health and well-being of others.

ICT: Why did you apply for the AL-CIP?

KD: When I first learned about the Advanced Certification in Infection Prevention (AL-CIP), I was truly excited about the opportunity to pursue a certification that reflects my extensive experience and underscores my dedication to the field. I applied for the AL-CIP to elevate my infection prevention and control expertise. This certification demonstrates my commitment to maintaining the highest standards of IPAC and enhances my ability to address the complex challenges in various healthcare and community settings. It's a credential that solidifies my role as a leader in the field and supports my ongoing professional development journey.

ICT: How does obtaining the AL-CIP certification impact your career growth and leadership opportunities as an IPC professional?

KD: Although I only received my AL-CIP certification in December 2024, it has sparked many engaging discussions with other IPAC professionals within my network and beyond. This certification has opened doors for sharing insights, best practices, and experiences with colleagues in the field. Most importantly, it has strengthened my ability to mentor and guide others, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence in infection prevention and control. I’m excited to embrace new challenges, contribute to advancing IPAC practices, and build a global network of like-minded professionals.

ICT: What advice do you have for others who want to apply for the AL-CIP?

KD: For those with substantial experience in infection prevention and control considering the AL-CIP, my advice is to start by compiling a robust portfolio highlighting your accomplishments and expertise. Once your portfolio is strong, the rest of the process becomes much more straightforward. As experienced Infection Control Practitioners, we often focus on uplifting others and celebrating their successes. While it’s important to acknowledge the achievements of our peers, don’t forget to recognize your contributions. The AL-CIP process is straightforward, especially when you can showcase the breadth and depth of your experience. Approach it confidently, knowing that this certification will enhance your professional development and career prospects. It will validate your expertise and connect you with a global network of dedicated professionals in the field.

• Sobhan Qadir, MBBS, CIC, MCPS, MSPH, CHQP, Program Lead (GHSA, C-19RM) and the Technical Advisor Infection Control, HPSIU-M/o NHSR&C Islamabad

Dr Sobhan Qadir, MBBS, CIC, MCPS, MSPH, CHQP,I am a physician with 2 master’s programs and 3 certifications. masters in public health, masters in health care systems management and certifications in infection prevention & control (CIC), Certified Healthcare Quality Professional (CHQP) and Advanced Leadership Certification in infection Prevention & Control (AL-CIP).

I am working as the technical advisor for IPC with Jhpiego- A Johns Hopkins University affiliate and Program Lead Global Health Security Agenda with Jhpiego Pakistan. I am also the current cochair of Jhpiego Global COP of Infection Prevention & Control. My role is to provide technical support on IPC to country teams (as required and requested) of Jhpiego across the globe.

ICT: Why did you apply for the AL-CIP?

SQ: I applied for the AL-CIP program because of my deep commitment to infection prevention and control (IPC) and extensive global health security experience. With certifications in Infection Control (CIC) from CBIC and Healthcare Quality and a strong background in public health leadership, I am eager to further enhance my expertise in leading large-scale IPC initiatives. I have been working in Infection Prevention & Control for more than 7 years and also received my Certification in Infection Control (CIC) in 2023. I applied for AL-CIP also because I wanted to test my leadership abilities in Infection Prevention & Control to align it with my current roles. I knew that once I successfully completed my AL-CIP, it would not only be a recognition of my work but also a testimonial for my work that aligns with global standards. AL-CIPC will also help me advance my leadership role, learning and influencing others to bring right changes in the health systems by strengthening the Infection Prevention & Control programs as this certification even empowers my advocacy in Healthcare system strengthening.

ICT: How does obtaining the AL-CIP certification impact your career growth and leadership opportunities as an IPC professional?

SQ: Obtaining the AL-CIP certification will enhance my career growth and the opportunities in the Leadership field of Infection Prevention & Control Globally.As a certified infection control specialist (CIC) with extensive experience in global health security, disease surveillance, and pandemic preparedness, this advanced leadership certification will further establish my expertise in leading large-scale IPC initiatives at national and international levels.

The certification will provide strategic leadership skills & abilities, Advanced knowledge, and will enhance access to the other Global Leaders in the Infection Prevention & Control field.From a career perspective, this certification will position me as a key leader in IPC, opening doors to senior advisory roles, policymaking positions, and global collaborations with organizations like WHO, CDC, Jhpiego, ECDC, and CBIC.

As I am working in Global Health Security and IPC, the certification is an important advocacy tool for implementing IPC and strengthening Global Health Security. It will enhance my career growth and empower my voice in advocating the implementation of Infection Prevention & Control and Global Health Security.

ICT: What advice do you have for others who want to apply for the AL-CIP?

SQ:If you work in the IPC field and possess the required eligibility criteria, I suggest applying for AL-CIP. Before applying for AL-CIP, you need to understand the requirements of marking and scores. It is essential to know that the evidence submission is crucial, and all the evidence should be valid and align with the relevant theme area. Every thematic area is important; you must be careful while filling it. The application questions and process amazingly align with the leadership role in IPC, so it may also help you in aligning your role as per the tool, and you may come back after some time (if you think your work does not exactly align right now with the application) for the application.

Last but not least, even if you get AL-CIP, you should remember that every IP is a leader who has the courage to deal directly with infections, serve the community, and save patients and community members from deadly infections.

• Mohammad Mhawish, RN, MSN, CIC, AL-CIP, Senior Infection Control Specialist Center for Infection Prevention and Control (CIPC), Ministry of Defense Health Services (MODHS), Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia-Riyadh

I am Mohammad Mhawish, a senior infection control specialist at the Center for Infection Prevention and Control (CIPC) under the Ministry of Defense Health Services (MODHS) in Saudi Arabia/Riyadh. I have a master’s degree in Critical Care Nursing and have been in the IPC field since 2010. I earned my CIC in 2013.

ICT: Why did you apply for the AL-CIP?
Mohammad Mhawish, RN, MSN, CIC, AL-CIP: I applied for AL-CIP certification to align my expertise with such a globally-recognized infection prevention leadership certification body. Given my role in CIPC in developing IPC central policies, providing education and training, and supporting MODHS hospitals, I saw this certification as an opportunity to highlight my ability to drive system-wide improvements.

ICT: How does obtaining the AL-CIP certification impact your career growth and leadership opportunities as an IPC professional?

MM: Earning the AL-CIP certification has strengthened my credibility as a leader in IPC, enabling me to take on a more strategic role in health care initiatives. It has also directed my efforts toward contributing to policy development, research studies, infection prevention education and training, and accreditation efforts across MODHS hospitals.

Additionally, the certification enhances professional recognition, job market competitiveness, and the ability to drive impactful patient safety improvements, positioning certified individuals as key decision-makers in infection prevention and control.

ICT: What advice do you have for others who want to apply for the AL-CIP?

MM: For those considering the AL-CIP, I recommend developing a strong foundation in IPC leadership, policy development and implementation, and strategic planning. Engage in mentorship opportunities, stay updated with evolving infection prevention standards, and lead quality improvement initiatives proactively. The certification is not just a credential but evidence of one’s commitment to excellence in IPC leadership.