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Canadians re-elected to key leadership roles at IEC

Canadian leadership at the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) ensures our electrotechnical industry has an influential voice in shaping the future of standards development and conformity assessment. The Standards Council of Canada (SCC) is proud to announce the re-election of Shawn Paulsen and Marty Cole to key roles within IEC. Their second terms will start on January 1, 2021 and end on December 31, 2023. The elections took place during the 84th IEC General Meeting, which was held virtually due to COVID-19 health measures.

Shawn Paulsen, Manager of Conformity Assessment with CSA Group, was re-elected as IEC Vice-President and Chair of the IEC’s Conformity Assessment Board. Paulsen has a wealth of experience within the standardization field and served on various IEC boards. His wide-ranging expertise includes electrical engineering, conformity assessment and standards compliance policy. In July 2020, he was appointed Vice-President of the Canadian member body of the IEC (CANC/IEC).

Marty Cole is Manager of Harsh and Hazardous Industries, Global Codes, Standards and Industry Specifications for Hubbell Canada LP. He was re-elected as Member of the IEC’s Conformity Assessment Board. As a seasoned expert, Cole has participated in numerous committees that strengthen both technical and policy standards work. His extensive expertise includes explosives engineering technology, hazardous locations and lighting products. 

“Shawn Paulsen and Marty Cole are dedicated leaders who have made considerable contributions to advancing Canada’s interests within the electrotechnical landscape,” says Dr. Mkabi Walcott, Vice President, Standards & International Relations of SCC. “Their re-elections showcase confidence in Canada’s leadership on the world stage. I am proud to congratulate them on receiving the opportunity to serve renewed terms at IEC.” 

The IEC’s Conformity Assessment Board is a committee that operates at the governance level. It is a decision-making body that oversees conformity assessment activities at IEC. The board has one chair, 12 voting members and a representative from each of the IEC conformity assessment schemes. 

About SCC 
Established in 1970 as a federal Crown corporation, the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) is Canada’s voice on standards and accreditation on the national and international stage. SCC works closely with a vast network of partners to promote the development of effective and efficient standards that protect the health, safety and well-being of Canadians while helping businesses prosper. As Canada’s leading accreditation organization, SCC creates market confidence at home and abroad by ensuring that conformity assessment bodies meet the highest national and international standards. SCC advances Canada’s interest on the international scene as a member of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) by connecting thousands of people to global networks and resources, opening a world of possibilities for Canadians and businesses.