Shortly after coming into force in 2021, CPATA began working on a multi-year project to develop and implement competency frameworks for patent agents and trademark agents. This is a significant project to modernize, define and standardize qualifications within the patent and trademark agent professions. Establishing clear expectations for practitioners helps ensure that all new and current licensees understand what knowledge and skills are vital for a safe, effective, and sustainable practice.
In March 2023, CPATA adopted the Technical Competency Profiles for Patent Agents and Trademark Agents, a document that describes the technical knowledge and skills agents need to provide competent patent and trademark agent services to their clients.
In spring 2024, CPATA began to develop a Professional Foundations Competency Profile to define the professional skills (such as communication, managing work etc.) that must complement an agents’ technical knowledge for competent practice.
Complete the Survey
Call for input from licensees: complete a 15-minute survey between September 4 and October 10 to validate the Professional Foundations competencies. CPATA wants to hear from licensees to:
- confirm the competencies and performance criteria
- identify which are “critical” or more/most important to practice
- spot anything that needs clarification or is missing
- collect overall comments
The survey is administered by an independent consultant Principia Assessments Ltd. and data will only be provided to CPATA in aggregate.
