For nearly eight decades, the American Society for Quality (ASQ) has been a global leader in quality management. From its origins in the post-World War II era to its role today, ASQ has driven innovation, guided industries through transformation, and fostered continuous improvement. Headquartered in Milwaukee, ASQ is instrumental in solving today’s challenges and shaping tomorrow’s opportunities.
A Legacy of Excellence, A Future of Innovation
ASQ was born out of necessity. After World War II, the demand for efficiency, standardization, and operational excellence surged. Visionaries in quality management recognized that systematic improvements in production and management could propel industries forward. Founded in 1946, ASQ quickly became the premier platform for knowledge-sharing, best practices, and professional growth in the quality discipline.
Today, ASQ unites over 30,000 members in 130+ countries. Committed to advancing quality, the organization empowers professionals and industries to harness its transformative power. “Quality is more than a standard—it is the foundation of success. It is what drives innovation, sustainability, and competitive advantage,” says ASQ CEO Sid Bhatnagar.
Empowering Organizations Through Knowledge and Certification
Quality is a journey, and ASQ provides the roadmap. Its globally recognized certifications, including the Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) and Six Sigma Black Belt, set the standard for operational excellence. With 19 specialized certifications developed over five decades, ASQ is the trusted authority for professionals and organizations striving for peak performance.
Beyond certifications, ASQ offers cutting-edge training programs led by industry experts, available virtually and on-site. “ASQ is about continuous learning. The world is changing rapidly, and staying ahead requires not just knowledge but the right application of that knowledge,” Sid says.
ASQ also provides an extensive peer-reviewed content library, technical resources, and best-practice guidelines that set industry benchmarks. The annual World Conference on Quality and Improvement (WCQI) serves as a hub for thought leadership, bringing professionals together to explore advancements in sustainability strategies, risk management, and more.
Innovation: The New Face of Quality
Quality management has evolved from simply reducing waste and errors to optimizing effectiveness, efficiency, and impact. “Quality is no longer just about avoiding mistakes. It’s about making every process, every decision, and every investment count,” says Sid.
ASQ’s innovative approach integrates emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, data analytics, and automation into traditional quality frameworks. By embracing these advancements, ASQ ensures that organizations are not merely keeping up with industry changes but are leading them.
With 225 member-led sections and divisions worldwide, ASQ fosters collaboration between quality professionals, industry leaders, and technology innovators to drive progress. This culture of shared learning helps businesses and professionals navigate complex challenges and seize new opportunities.
Upskilling for the Future
The workforce is evolving. Studies indicate that nearly half of all employees will need to acquire new skills within the next few years to remain competitive. Yet, only a fraction of organizations are actively investing in reskilling programs. ASQ is tackling this challenge head-on, providing tailored learning solutions that empower individuals and businesses to stay ahead of the curve.
“We are in a skills revolution,” Sid states. “Job descriptions are changing, and automation is redefining roles. But one thing remains constant: organizations that invest in upskilling their workforce will survive and thrive.”
ASQ’s focus on workforce transformation addresses critical gaps in critical thinking, data-driven decision-making, and adaptability. The organization works closely with businesses to integrate quality principles into talent development, ensuring professionals are prepared to lead in an increasingly complex world.
Sustainability and the Role of Quality
Quality is about more than efficiency—it’s about responsibility. ASQ recognizes that quality management principles are essential to achieving sustainability goals. By leveraging methodologies like Lean and Six Sigma, Root Cause Analysis and Risk Management tools like FMEA. ASQ helps organizations minimize waste, optimize resources, and align with sustainability strategies.
For over 40 years, ASQ has championed Lean principles to drive environmental and social impact. Today, the organization continues to refine these strategies, ensuring sustainability remains at the heart of quality. “The future belongs to organizations that prioritize both performance and purpose. Quality and sustainability are not mutually exclusive—they are deeply interconnected,” Sid asserts.
A Global Community of Change-Makers
ASQ’s influence extends beyond training programs and certifications. At its core, ASQ is a movement—a global community of problem-solvers, mentors, and innovators dedicated to making the world work better. ASQ’s members share a passion for continuous progress, collaborating to improve workplaces, industries, and global quality standards.
Through member-led communities, specialized forums, and networking opportunities, ASQ fosters an environment where knowledge flows freely, ideas spark action, and collaboration drives progress. Whether tackling industry-specific challenges, exploring advancements in digital transformation, or redefining quality standards, ASQ’s members are leading the charge.
“Our strength lies in our community,” Sid says. “Quality is not just a profession—it’s a mindset. When we come together, we don’t just improve processes; we transform industries and create lasting impact.”
The Road Ahead: Defining the Future of Quality
ASQ is not content with maintaining the status quo. The organization’s future vision includes expanding AI-driven analytics, advanced training methodologies, and a growing international footprint. By embracing technological advancements and adapting quality frameworks to meet tomorrow’s demands, ASQ ensures its impact continues growing.
“Our responsibility is not just to respond to change but to anticipate it,” Sid emphasizes. “We are building a future where quality is not an afterthought—it is the driving force behind sustainable success, innovation, and global progress.”
Quality as a Competitive Advantage
The business landscape is evolving faster than ever. Organizations that fail to integrate quality into their strategies risk falling behind. However, those who embrace quality as a competitive advantage unlock limitless possibilities. ASQ is the catalyst that transforms quality from a compliance requirement into a strategic asset.
With its expertise, cutting-edge solutions, and passionate global community, ASQ is more than an organization—it is a force for transformation. Quality is no longer just about reducing errors and waste. Today, it is about maximizing efficiency, effectiveness, and the optimal use of time, materials, and resources. The ultimate goal? To make the world work better—in business, nonprofits, government, and communities—by leading with quality at the core of every effort.
“The workforce of tomorrow will be defined by those who invest in continuous improvement today,” Sid says. “At ASQ, we believe that quality is the key to unlocking potential, accelerating innovation, and creating a future where excellence is the standard, not the exception.”
In Milwaukee, across the United States, and around the world, ASQ is shaping the future—one innovation at a time.
