

Starting Strong: The Power of the IAP
The Institute of Internal Auditors Presents: All Things Internal Audit
In this episode, Benito Ybarra sits down with Rick Walke to discuss the newly updated Internal Audit Practitioner™ (IAP™) designation. They explore its value as a permanent credential, its role as a stepping stone to the Certified Internal Auditor® (CIA®), and how it equips internal auditors with foundational knowledge. The conversation highlights the IAP’s global reach, employer credibility, and practical benefits for students, rotational auditors, and professionals at the start of their audit journey.
Visit the Certifications page on theiia.org for additional information.
HOST:Benito Ybarra, CIAExecutive Vice President, Global Standards, Guidance, and Certifications, The IIA
GUEST:
Rick Walke, CIA, QIAL, CRMA, CPAVice President, Internal Audit and Risk Management, FORUM Credit Union
Key Points
- Introduction [00:00–00:00:38]
- The 18-Month Development Process [00:01:23–00:01:49]
- Making the IAP Permanent and a CIA Stepping Stone [00:01:49–00:02:36]
- Clearing Up Confusion: IAP vs. CIA Part One [00:02:39–00:03:45]
- Structured Learning for New Auditors [00:04:08–00:05:17]
- Target Audiences [00:05:47–00:06:54]
- Building Foundational Knowledge and Ethics [00:07:06–00:07:53]
- Reliability and Employer Confidence [00:08:17–00:09:04]
- CIA Exam Alignment and Credibility [00:09:04–00:09:29]
- Studying the Syllabus: Key Sections [00:09:29–00:10:54]
- Governance, Risk, and Fraud Concepts [00:11:08–00:12:18]
- Portability of Knowledge Across Careers [00:12:18–00:13:25]
- Making the Case to Employers for Support [00:13:26–00:14:07]
- Employee Development and Organizational Strength [00:14:32–00:15:02]
- Global Accessibility [00:15:59–00:16:20]
- Worldwide Recognition and Value [00:16:20–00:17:07]
- A Team Effort [00:17:13–00:17:39]
- Closing Remarks [00:17:39–00:18:13]
The IIA Related Content Interested in this topic? Visit the links below for more resources:
- 2025 Financial Services Exchange Conference
- CIA 2025
- IAP 2025
- CIA Exam: Why and How it is Changing
- Global Internal Audit Standards
- Certification Candidate Handbook
- Certificate Programs
Visit The IIA's website or YouTube channel for related topics and more.
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