IAT Launches New Grade - Operational Member

What is it?

The Institute of Asphalt Technology (IAT) has launched a new membership grade: Operational Member of the IAT (OMIAT), designed for site-based staff in contracting, asphalt production, technical, or design roles.

When is it available?

The grade launches on 1st January 2026.  You can apply from today, however applications won't be accepted until the grade goes live.

Cost

£120.00 Per Year

Criteria to Join

To qualify, applicants must:

• Work in a site-based asphalt technology related role (Contracting, Production, Technical, or Design)
• Have a working knowledge of asphalt technology
• Hold at least 12 months of industry experience
• Supply a CV to support the application

Benefits- What Do You Get?

Professional Recognition

• Use of post-nominals OMIAT after your name, demonstrating your professional status.
• Official membership of the UK’s professional body for asphalt technology.
• Shows commitment to high standards in your role.

Practical Tools & Resources

• Laying Guide in the IAT App- quick reference for best practice on site.
• Technical Videos- short, accessible learning resources to refresh and expand knowledge.

Learning & Development

• Access to CPD (Continuing Professional Development) resources to log and track your learning.
• Access to Derby Courses (with potential sponsorship from local IAT branches).

Events & Networking

• Invitations to technical events, seminars, branch meetings and social events.
• Meet and share experiences with others working across contracting, production, testing, and design.

Career Growth

• Strengthens your CV and supports progression to higher grades of membership.
• Helps demonstrate readiness for supervisory or management roles.

Why It Matters

• Provides recognition for the skilled work carried out by operational staff.
• Improves access to knowledge and resources, helping to raise industry standards.
• Encourages continuous learning and safer, more efficient practice.

Benefits- What Do Organisations Get?

• Improved Standards & Knowledge- Staff gain access to up to date technical guidance, improving site performance and safety.
• Enhanced Reputation- Having employees with IAT membership shows clients and stakeholders that the company invests in professional development and quality.
• Staff Development & Retention- Membership supports career growth, which can improve job satisfaction and staff retention.
• Networking Opportunities- Organisations benefit from connections with IAT members across the industry, helping to share best practice and innovations.
• Support for Training & CPD- Structured CPD and access to Derby Courses help ensure teams remain skilled, compliant, and ready for future challenges.

Why It Matters

• Recognises and supports skilled operational staff.
• Helps both individuals and companies stay at the cutting edge of asphalt technology.
• Raises standards, safety, and professionalism across the industry

Summary

Becoming an Operational Member of the IAT (OMIAT) gives you professional recognition, practical tools, learning opportunities, and access to a community dedicated to raising standards in asphalt technology. This also provides demonstrable benefits to industry, by raising standards, encouraging knowledge sharing and strengthening the professionalism of the workforce.

How to Join

Simply head to the institute website, www.instituteofasphalt.org/join, where you can begin your online, digital application.