Industry Certifications CTE Veteran’s Administrator Training February 2012

Purpose of Industry Certifications Help students train for a career or improve their qualifications for a field they’re already in. Can be important ways to show employers that students have the skills and knowledge for a new position or a promotion within a current organization.

What is an Industry Certification? A complete industry certification program (i.e. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)) A pathway examination that leads to completed industry certification (Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), Educational Aide I/II) A state-issued professional license (i.e. Cosmetology) An occupational competency examination (i.e. skills assessments from the National Occupational Competency Institute (NOCTI)).

Where is an Industry Certification Offered? Education Institutions Community Colleges Online (Certiport— Testing Centers (Microsoft Approved, Prometric, etc.) Others?

In What Fields is an Industry Certification Common? Health Care – CNA, Pharmacy Technician, EMT Basic Technician, Vocational Nurse License, Dental Technician, Physical Therapy Assistant Technology – Microsoft Office Specialist, Adobe Associate, A+, Network +, CISCO Education & Child Care – Child Care Associate, Educational Aide I/II Automotive – Automotive Service Excellence Legal – Certified Legal Assistant or Certified Paralegal Food Service – ServSafe, ProStart

Why Offer Industry Certifications The program receives a "stamp of excellence", which represents the apex of program quality. Strengthens all program components: State-of-the-art classrooms/labs Enhances academic performance standards In-depth project-based instruction Business, industry, and community involvement in all aspects of the program. Added value to a transcript for higher education purposes and/or obtaining an entry-level position in the technical job market

How Do Students Benefit? Evidence that the student has completed advanced educational preparation by verifying competency in CTE skills areas in demand by industry; Increased job opportunities for advancement in a chosen career path; and Enhanced self-esteem for students.

What Criteria is used to Determine Which Industry Certification to Offer? Taught by an educator with an industry certification or licensure Designed to prepare students for an occupation or occupational area Knowledge-based; however, the credential may contain a performance-based component In a CTE field that confers a credential from a recognized industry, trade or professional association or entity Administered on a multi-state or international basis Standardized and graded independent of the school in which the test is given