Q: What groups recognize the ASQ Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) Certification? The CQA is not enough to conduct an internal audit to AS9100:2009 Revision C Quality management systems—Requirements for aviation, space and defense organizations, and I am not trained in AS9100C.
A: Thank you for contacting ASQ Ask the Experts. The ASQ CQA is recognized by companies, industries and organizations worldwide as evidence of an individual that has demonstrated their ability to meet established criteria for quality management system auditing.
AS9100C contains requirements that are specific to the aerospace industry and exceed the ASQ CQA requirements.
Having an ASQ CQA would be a good start toward obtaining an AS9100C auditor certification. However, keep in mind that although first party internal auditors should be trained as auditors, rarely would they be required to be certified for the purpose of conducting internal (first party) audits. I hope this helps.
Bill Aston
ASQ Senior Member
Managing Director of Aston Technical Consulting Services
Kingwood, TX
www.astontechconsult.com
For more on this topic, please visit ASQ’s website.