Industry Associations Honored for Esthetics Licensure Compact

## Industry Collaboration Recognized with Prestigious Award The American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) has honored Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP), The International SPA Association (ISPA), and The Professional Beauty Association (PBA) with the 2026 Power of Associations Gold Award for their collaborative work on the Esthetics Licensure Compact. This recognition celebrates the strength of industry collaboration in advancing professional mobility and creating broader benefits for the communities they serve. ## Addressing Licensing Challenges The Esthetics Licensure Compact is designed to create a pathway for qualified estheticians to practice in all member states through a multistate license. This model legislation was developed with the Council of State Governments in conjunction with industry stakeholders and received financial support from the U.S. Department of Defense due to its potential to benefit military spouses and families who relocate frequently. The legislation requires enactment by seven states to form the Compact Commission, with three states already having enacted the legislation. ## Industry Unity and Consistency The collaboration between ASCP, ISPA, and PBA has been crucial in maintaining a coordinated approach to the Esthetics Licensure Compact. The three organizations have remained aligned on model legislation, coordinated their advocacy, and resisted changes that could weaken consistency among participating states. This disciplined approach has helped prevent conflicting messages and competing proposals that can slow legislative progress. ## Supporting the Esthetics Profession The Esthetics Licensure Compact is intended to support approximately 300,000 licensed estheticians practicing in the United States. The compact aims to create a licensing system that recognizes the qualifications of estheticians and supports their ability to build sustainable careers. The coalition's work has also established a coordinated national point of contact for policymakers seeking guidance from the esthetics profession, which is expected to remain valuable beyond the compact itself. ## Industry Partnerships and Collaboration The Power of Associations Award recognizes industry groups that significantly contribute to professional development and collaboration, enhancing professional mobility. The award highlights the ability of associations to convene stakeholders, inspire collaboration, and address challenges affecting industries, professions, and communities. The ASAE's Power of Associations Awards recognize the association community's economic and societal contributions locally, nationally, and globally. The 2026 Power of Associations Award recipients will be recognized during the Summit Awards Dinner on September 22 at the National Building Museum in Washington D.C. This prestigious award is a testament to the strength of industry collaboration and the potential for associations to drive positive change in their respective industries.