Setting the professional standard for utility operations and capital leadership
About NACUP
The North American Council of Utility Professionals (NACUP) is an independent professional standards organization dedicated to advancing leadership and accountability in utility operations and capital environments.
NACUP was established to address a long-standing gap in the utility industry: the absence of a neutral, asset-agnostic credential that recognizes applied professional judgment beyond job titles, tenure, or employer-specific training.
Our Mission
The North American Council of Utility Professionals (NACUP) advances professional standards in utility operations and capital leadership by establishing rigorous, independent, exam-based certifications that validate real-world competence, judgment, and readiness for high-stakes decision-making.
Our Vision
NACUP envisions CUOCP® serving as a common professional reference point for utilities seeking to assess readiness for leadership roles across operations and capital programs. The credential provides organizations with an independent signal of applied judgment, accountability, and cross-functional competence—supporting promotion decisions, leadership development, and workforce consistency across assets and regions.
Our Commitment
NACUP is committed to maintaining high standards of integrity, transparency, and ethical governance. Our certifications are voluntary, non-regulatory professional credentials intended to complement—not replace—employer training, licensure, or regulatory requirements.
Governance & Oversight
NACUP certifications are developed and maintained through a professionally governed framework designed to ensure independence, fairness, and integrity. Examination content, standards updates, and ethical oversight are subject to documented review processes and conflict-of-interest controls.
NACUP maintains separation between credential governance, examination administration, and organizational leadership to protect the credibility and impartiality of its certifications.
The CUOCP® professional standard defines the leadership judgment, oversight capability, and ethical responsibility expected of utility professionals who manage operations, capital programs, and risk in regulated environments.
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