Automation Professionals Gain Certification Opportunity

The Instrumentation, Systems and Automation Society (ISA) this fall will award certification to the first batch of Certified Automation Professionals (CAP), the organization's new automation certification. "This 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 ...

By Staff February 1, 2004

The Instrumentation, Systems and Automation Society (ISA) this fall will award certification to the first batch of Certified Automation Professionals (CAP), the organization’s new automation certification.

“This 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 serve 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.”

A diverse panel of industry professionals representing various areas of the manufacturing industry met last month to define specific job tasks of the automation professional. Next, a survey of potential certification program participants will be conducted to validate the specific job tasks and responsibilities of the profession. Then, a question-writing committee will begin to develop a comprehensive exam, which all CAP candidates will be required to pass.

In addition to the exam, candidates will need to have a four-year degree in engineering, math, computer science, physics or another technical area and at least five years of professional automation experience.

Prior to implementing the program, ISA surveyed automation professionals to find out if there was any interest in an automation certification program. The response was overwhelmingly in favor of the program, with 78% reporting that such a certification would enhance recognition of and respect for the automation profession; 72% reporting that a certification would be valuable to them; 68% expressing that certification could provide a competitive advantage in the market; and 72% planning to seek certification.