Live Virtual Training
Instructor-led, real-time training in a virtual environment.
Get in-depth training by attending our scheduled virtual course trainings which features our instructor who walk through subject matter via a live video conference call. Virtual opportunities are scheduled throughout the year.
- New event dates just added!
In-Person Training
Face-to-face training at ISTA events.
Interactive live events with our lead instructor and fellow attendees with our in-person events such as the annual ISTA Forum, TransPack & TempPack events.
- Member discounted rate: $495
- Non-member rate: $625
Discounts offered with event registration and if taking multiple courses.
- New 2023 Forum training events just added!
Non-Member Access
ISTA Educational courses are now available for non-members. Click below to learn more about signing up for a non-member access account.
Course Descriptions

CC 201 | Introduction to BioPharma Cold Chain
The instructor for this training is ISTA Pharma Committee Board Member Carolyn Williamson.
The Who, What, Why and Where of a Temperature-Controlled Shipping Program
- Basics of a cold chain program
- Attributes of a gold standard cold chain program
- Guiding standards for the industry
- Introduction to the Shipping Qualification Process Flow
- Lessons learned on selecting test labs and suppliers (labs, packaging, recording devices, etc.)

CC 301 | User Requirement Specification (URS) to Operational Qualification (OQ)
The instructor for this training is ISTA Pharma Committee Board Member Carolyn Williamson.
The How of a Temperature-Controlled Shipping Program
- How to create a robust URS
- Highlight both major and minor attributes of a URS
- How to design and implement your OQ process
- Highlight the design qualification tests
- Execution of an OQ protocol
- Documentation
- Test Protocols and Reports
- Temperature Recording Device Settings
- Operational SOP/WIs
- Staff training
- How to select and implement a pre-qualified shipper
- Navigating Change Control to Implement your Qualified System
- Lessons Learned on Implementing a Qualified Shipping System
- Case Studies
Continuing Education
In addition to these Cold Chain courses, ISTA continues efforts to build out an expanded list of educational courses including the new revamped Packaging Dynamics Professional (PDP) certification program. Some courses can be completed for credit towards PDP recertification. Content offerings include:
- Packaging Dynamics Professional (PDP)
- Responsible Packaging by Design (RPbD)
- Introduction to Distribution Environment Data Collection & Analysis (coming soon)
- Distribution Environment Data Collection (coming soon)
- Distribution Environment Data Analysis: Vehicle Vibration (coming soon)
- Distribution Environment Data Analysis: Shock Impact & Drop (coming soon)
Group Training
Ramp up your team's skills in a cost-effective way, by having our instructor conduct training (virtual or in-person) for your group. Contact us at ista@ista.org and we'll follow up, answer any questions and help bring continuing education to your organization.