When searching for a CEC, there are several things to consider. In addition to cost, the individual may want to find certification with a national laboratory. Another thing to consider is engineering reliability. Although a laboratory may be able to test the product against national standards, it may not be able to test for engineering reliability. Once the testing is done, the engineer will know if the product meets national standards or not.
National organizations that offer certifications are divided into two groups. The first is the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). This is a non-profit organization that offers certifications to those individuals who have successfully passed the exams. The second group is the American Electrical Contractors Association or AECA. This is a membership organization that offers certifications to AEC professionals.
When looking at the two organizations, you will see that they offer different things. If you are looking to get certification from the AEC or the AEA, you will find that the exams are very similar. When looking at the electrical certifications offered by the NDT, the exams are a little bit more complicated. Both exams require a certain amount of technical knowledge and an understanding of engineering reliability.
What separates these certifications? There are a few differences, but overall, all require similar things. Associate degrees can be completed in less than two years. Many students take this route so that they can begin working as soon as possible. If you want to become certified as an electrician, an associate’s degree might be the right choice.
Once you complete your studies, you must pay your application fee, pay the exam fee, and pay the National Board of Examiners certification fee. Once all these things are complete, you will be certified. If you want to become certified as an electrician, your certification will be recognized around the country. However, you will need to take a specific test in order to receive your national certification. There are four tests to take:
The examination does not take a long time, but it is usually around one hour. After you pass your exam fee, you will be mailed your certificate. You will need to pay your application fee as well as the NDT or ASE certification fee. Once all the costs are complete, you will be able to work as an electrician. If you wish to pursue a career as a senior professional, you must complete the certification process again.
In addition to becoming a certified NDT or ASE engineer, you may also choose to become a reliability engineer. This type of engineering certifications is only good for three years, after which you cannot apply to become a certified reliability engineer again. You do not have to worry about being laid off because of your certification; however, you will not be eligible to apply for another certification for five years. However, these engineering certifications are a great jumpstart into other areas of electrical engineering.
Another option is to become an electrical and geometric dimensioning engineer. This type of certification requires an extra two-year commitment, but it has benefits. Unlike a reliability engineer, a geometric dimensionalist does not have to complete his/her schooling in order to obtain this certification. He/she is also not required to take an examination. Although not a direct path to a job in the field, these certifications can be helpful to an electrician looking to move their career to the next level.
Once you have your education, you can decide if it is necessary to complete the certification program. If so, you can apply to a local community college, or you can complete the certification exam online. There are several online sites that offer certifications to electricians in a variety of areas. In most cases, you will have to pay for the exam fee online. The exam fee will cover the cost of the study guide and the related materials.
To get the best value for your money, consider getting a third party certification. In the past, inspectors with these certifications were typically employed by electrician’s associations or major building contractors. However, in recent years the reliability engineer cost for one individual project has dropped to just pennies on the dollar. Instead of spending tens of thousands of dollars to obtain a certification, you can save that amount of money by getting the special certification that only few individuals are qualified for.
