The Association and Institutes Awards have long celebrated organisations shaping Ireland’s and the international professional landscape, spotlighting excellence in leadership, innovation, and member engagement. Among last year’s finalists, the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) was shortlisted for the Member Engagement & Communications Award, reflecting its sophisticated global communications strategy and deep-rooted member collaboration model.

IPAF promotes and enables the safe and effective use of powered access equipment worldwide. As a not-for-profit federation owned by its members, the organisation represents manufacturers, rental companies, distributors, contractors, and users operating across more than 80 countries. Its members account for the majority of the global MEWP rental fleet and manufacture approximately 85% of platforms on the market, giving IPAF a uniquely influential platform for industry-wide engagement.

The shortlisting recognised IPAF’s ability to translate complex technical standards, legislative developments, and safety guidance into accessible, actionable communications for a diverse international membership. Through structured training programmes, global safety campaigns, technical publications, and policy advocacy, the federation ensures that members are not only informed but actively connected to a shared mission of raising safety standards worldwide.

Central to IPAF’s engagement model is its commitment to maximising member value. The federation provides education and accredited training pathways, facilitates dialogue on common industry challenges, and represents the powered access sector in government and regulatory discussions across multiple jurisdictions. This integrated communications framework ensures members are aligned on evolving standards, regulatory interpretation, and good practice — reinforcing both technical efficiency and commercial integrity.

This recognition arrives at a time when trade associations face mounting pressure to demonstrate tangible return on membership investment while navigating rapid regulatory change and global market complexity.

Guided by values of integrity, diversity and inclusion, transparency, pioneering leadership, and professionalism, IPAF continues to expand its global footprint while strengthening collaboration among the industry’s principal stakeholders. Its shortlisting for the Member Engagement & Communications Award underscores the federation’s pivotal role in fostering a connected, informed, and safety-driven international community.

For more information on finalists, past winners, and judging insights, visit the official Association and Institutes Awards website.