Engineering is one of the most popular and challenging fields that exist. It combines creativity, problem solving, mathematics, science, technology and more to bring about some of the most innovative creations we use today. Many people enter into this field to make a difference in society by creating something new or improving upon existing products. The engineering profession is made up of many different sub-disciplines, which can be daunting for those who are just starting out or want to change their focus. Once completing these programs successfully, list the designation on your resume and LinkedIn profile for hiring managers and recruiters to notice your level of expertise. 

 Here’s an overview on some of these designations:

Certified Engineering Technician (C.Tech)

• A Certified Engineering Technician (C.Tech) is a skilled professional with an associate’s degree in engineering technology.
• To become a C.Tech, you need to meet the same requirements as any other associate’s degree program, including earning at least 60 credits and completing general education courses.
• The National Institute for Certification of Engineering Technicians (NICET) offers certification exams for students who have completed their programs at an accredited institution of higher learning to determine whether or not they are qualified to work as engineers or technicians in their field of study.

Certified Energy Manager (CEM)

You can earn the Certified Energy Manager (CEM0) certification by completing a series of courses and passing a set of exams. It’s offered by the Association for Energy Engineers (AEE) and approved by the International Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (IBEP).

To earn your CEM designation, you must complete:

• [one] AEE course on energy management fundamentals
• [two] AEE courses on project management fundamentals and planning
• [three] AEE technical electives in one or more of these areas: power generation; power distribution; heating ventilation air conditioning systems; lighting; water heating & cooling systems; industrial processes & pollution control.

Certified Green Building Engineer (GBE)

A Green Building Engineer (GBE) is a professional designation offered by the Green Building Certification Institute. The GBE designation is for engineers who are involved in the design, construction, and operation of green buildings.

While this career path may not be right for everyone, it is an option for those interested in becoming more sustainable engineers.

Certified Professional Building Designer (CPBD)

The Certified Professional Building Designer (CPBD) credential is awarded by the International Code Council (ICC). It demonstrates mastery of building design requirements such as safety, energy efficiency and sustainability, according to an October 2016 press release about the new designation.

Requirements for Becoming a CPBD:

• At least five years’ experience designing commercial buildings or at least five years’ experience as an architect practicing in any jurisdiction for two of those five years; or be enrolled in a professional education program leading to licensure as an architect or registration as a building designer by the state, territory or province where you reside; and
• Have passed all parts of the Building Design Exam within three attempts (if you’ve spent more than three months away from active practice since your last attempt); and
• Agree to adhere to all provisions of this certification program including continuing education requirements.

Certified Public Infrastructure Inspector (CPII)

The Certified Public Infrastructure Inspector (CPII) certification is for engineers who inspect public infrastructure, including roads and bridges. The program was developed by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), which offers training and study materials through its online learning platform.

To become a certified CPII, you must meet the following requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree in civil or environmental engineering from an accredited college or university; OR five years of experience in civil engineering related to public works projects; OR a combination of education and experience that includes four years of professional-level work experience in civil engineering related to public works projects.

Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE)

The Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) is the study of systems that work. It is a sub-discipline of engineering that applies principles of probability and statistics to the design and operation of systems that must perform reliably over a long period of time. Reliability engineers use their knowledge to ensure that your company’s products meet their intended life cycle, from conception through production, distribution and maintenance.

Take some time to explore different options, ask yourself questions about where your interests lie (or might lie), read up on some articles like this one, and then make a decision based on that knowledge.

If you need any assistance with navigating your career, contact us for a customized approach to your needs.