The Certified Maintenance and Reliable Technician (CMT) certification is a nationwide certification test for maintenance and reliable technicians who are required by law to be knowledgeable in matters concerning onshore and offshore oil platforms. The Society for Maintenance and Reliability Professionals, Certified Maintenance and Reliable Technician (CMT) is a nationwide certification examination for maintenance and reliable technicians who are required by law to be knowledgeable in matters relating to onshore and offshore oil platforms. Candidates wishing to sit for the exam must possess aptitude in the areas of: preventive maintenance, onshore and offshore oil platforms, repairing/maintenance, preventive maintenance procedures, CMM, and MRO. To gain admission to the CMT program, candidates must successfully pass a three-hour examination administered by the National Institute for Training and Practice (NITP) in Reading, PA.

How long does it take to become certified? This will vary depending on which state you reside. In Maryland, it takes about two years to complete the course. However, to sit for the test in Maryland you will need to apply fee. Applying fee for CMT certification is $150. Once you pay the application fee, you will be sent an application letter, a proof of education, and an examination paper for the CMT exam.

What does the examination entail? The exam consists of two sections. One segment covers onshore maintenance and Offshore Maintenance. Each segment has ten questions, which cover areas such as understanding maintenance best practices, identifying and correcting errors, understanding oilfield hazards, proper record keeping, basic machinery operation and maintenance, preventive maintenance procedures, repairing and maintenance equipment, and managing payroll. Throughout the exam, you will also be required to demonstrate your knowledge in algebra, chemistry, reading and technical skills, as well as mechanical drafting and troubleshooting.

Who can take the exams? The CMT certifications are national certifications that you can get even if you currently work in a different state. However, there are some states that have specific requirements when it comes to getting certified as a maintenance services expert. Maryland requires that potential contractors and employees who want to get certified must pass both CMT and MRO training.

Who can benefit from Certified Maintenance and Reliable Technicians? Apart from Maryland, people working in the electric power industry or the building maintenance services field can greatly benefit from these certifications. For example, an electrician who works in a building maintenance service company can greatly benefit from the certification. An electrician can diagnose electrical problems as well as offer advice and service solutions to clients. An MRO on the other hand, would be useful to a building maintenance technician who works for a building maintenance company to ensure that the electrical systems being used by his client are safe and efficient.

What about the cost of the CTM? As stated earlier, the exam fee of the CMT is minimal. You don’t need to pay for this certification program cost until after passing the exam. Once you pass the exam, you need not pay for the CMT certification program cost again. This is why many people think that they are able to save on the cost of the exam and then do not go on to get certified.

How about the other exam and the preparation materials? When you prepare for the exam, it is important that you get enough practice time and to ensure that you understand all the needed metrics in the area of CTM. You can do this by learning more about the topics, reading materials and reviewing the applicable books and articles. There are several books you can buy which discuss important topics and provide additional resources in preparation for the exam.

These are the five pillars of a great Certified Maintenance Technician (CMT) certification. A good technician should be knowledgeable in at least three or four of these important topics. If you have a question in mind about how to prepare for the exam, do some research. There are plenty of websites and articles you can visit that will answer your questions and guide you to becoming a Certified Maintenance Technician (CCT). And remember, a good technician is someone who is willing to learn from others, has a high level of technical competency and is willing to pay their due diligence when finding ways to make their job easier.