Certify calibration technicians

Many professions have certifications for people who work in that field. Take engineers, for example; degreed engineers can become registered professional engineers. Technicians in many fields can take certification exams. But those who work in calibration currently have no such exam. Thanks to a new program, that's about to change.

In May 2002, the American Society for Quality (ASQ, www.asq.org) approved the development of the Certified Calibration Technician (CCT) program. The program, sponsored by the ASQ's Measurement Quality Division (www.measurementquality.org) will certify that calibration technicians have demonstrated a standard level of calibration-focused knowledge. The CCT program uses the ASQ's existing programs as models, but it will require knowledge specific to calibration. I applaud the CCT program. It will benefit individuals, manufacturers, third-party calibration labs, and consumers.

Calibration technicians will benefit because a CCT certificate will add another feather to their caps (and resumes). Cal labs, whether in-house or third-party, who employ certified calibration technicians will gain a competitive advantage. Product manufacturers will benefit by producing better products, and consumers will benefit by buying products made with equipment calibrated by certified technicians.

Kudos to Chris Grachanen, metrology manager at Hewlett-Packard (Houston, TX), for spearheading the CCT program. With help from many calibration professionals, ASQ staff people, and others, Chris compiled input from hundreds of people over the last three years to define the program and specify the required body of knowledge.

In September 2002, the committee overseeing the CCT program finalized the body of knowledge that technicians will need to master. Exam preparation materials and the exams are now in development. The ASQ will offer exams in numerous locations around the country, most likely commencing in December 2003.

To qualify for the exam, candidates must have a minimum amount of experience or formal training. Candidates need at least three years of experience to take the exam, but those with formal technical training (such as that available through the military or technical trade schools) or those with technical academic degrees may waive up to two years of work experience. Technicians with five or more years of experience may take the exam without any formal training.

All candidates for the CCT exam will require two sponsors who can vouch for a candidate's level of training and experience. CCT-certified technicians will either need to retake the exam every three years or submit documentation of work time in the calibration field and additional training through formal education or seminars.

To learn more about the CCT program, visit www.measurementquality.org/cct/fs_cct.html.

Contact Martin Rowe at m.rowe@tmworld.com