First automation professional certification exams set for fall

The first group of ISA certified automation professionals (CAPs) will be designated in fall 2004. The new automation certification program, established by ISA, the Instrumentation, Systems, and Automation Society , is designed to establish an identity for the automation professional and provide recognition for individuals working in automation and control. To receive CAP designation, participants must pass a comprehensive exam developed and administered by the program. They must also hold a four-year degree in a technical field (engineering, math, computer science, etc.) and have at least 5 years of professional experience in automation.

“The new certification will give employers an objective measure for hiring and advancement decisions and a method for identifying qualified contractors to work on automation projects,” said Kim Dunn, vice president of ISA’s Professional Development Department. “Automation certification will also service as a motivator for individuals to learn more about the broad field of automation. Ultimately, it will raise the standards in this field by increasing overall job competence.”
The program began with the establishment of a blue ribbon panel of diverse industry professionals representing a broad cross-section of manufacturing industries. The panel met last month to define specific job tasks of the automation professional. The next step is to survey potential certification program participants to validate the job responsibilities of the automation professional. Once tasks are verified, a question-writing committee of subject-matter experts will develop the exam.

ISA is considering a two-year introductory period for the program when applicants with at least 10 years of experience in automation but without a four-year degree will be eligible to apply for certification. All applicants, however, will be required to pass the exam.

—Jeanine Katzel, Senior Editor, Control Engineering, jkatzel@reedbusiness.com

Do you have experience and expertise with the topics mentioned in this content? You should consider contributing to our CFE Media editorial team and getting the recognition you and your company deserve. Click here to start this process.