THE Faculty of Engineering and Computing at the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech) has officially embarked on its journey towards achieving International Organisation for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2015 certification, with support from the Jamaica Public Service (JPS).

The process started at a seminar held recently at the university’s campus, under the theme ‘Cultivating Excellence: Embracing ISO 9001:2015 for Continuous Improvement and Success’.

JPS, a leader in quality management, having achieved the same certification for its System Protection and Control Unit in 2021 and another certification for its High Voltage Testing Lab in 2023, will be playing a pivotal role in the faculty’s endeavour.

ISO 9001:2015 is an internationally recognised standard for quality management systems (QMS) that sets the criteria for organisations to consistently deliver products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements. It emphasises a process-driven approach to continual improvement, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, making it a hallmark of operational excellence across industries worldwide.

In delivering greetings at the seminar, Dr Kevin Brown, president of UTech, said, “Achieving ISO 9001:2015 certification will reinforce the faculty’s commitment to quality education, research, and service. It will streamline operational processes, enhancing both administrative and academic efficiency, allow for regular updates to curricula and teaching methods and elevate satisfaction among students and industry partners.“

At the same time, Uton Tobin, JPS specialist standards engineer and ISO 9001:2015 project manager, said: “JPS is honoured to be supporting UTech’s journey towards ISO 9001:2015 certification. Through our insight and the sharing of our expertise, we are fully committed to assisting the university in meeting the high standards required for this prestigious certification.”

Shawna Farquharson, JPS commissioning engineer and quality management specialist, highlighted the significant benefits the company has gained from implementing an ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System. “ISO 9001:2015 certification has enhanced our credibility and demonstrates our commitment to quality,” she said during her presentation at the seminar. “We have experienced improvements in grid reliability and process integration as a result.”

JPS said that as a utility company committed to excellence, it recognises the role of quality management in enhancing service delivery and by supporting UTech’s certification journey, the light and power company aims to foster continuous improvement, strengthening the university’s educational offerings and empowering future community leaders.