These fit between classes (direct instruction) and certifications (testing)
Endorsements prove your skill in specific areas of leatherworking
To earn an endorsement, students must take a class / pass an exam / demonstrate behavior.
certain combinations of endorsements qualify student as a specialist. many specializations available.
Endorsements are broken down into 3 types:

MERIT
These endorsements show competency in soft skills such as team building, teaching, mentoring, recruiting, ...etc.
basically all the stuff about leatherworking that doesn't involve leather.

STANDARD
These endorsements show competency in a specific core area of leatherworking.

TECHNICAL
These endorsements show competency in advanced techniques and complex methods and projects.