Skills certification helps assure competency

Rockwell Automation has introduced a certification programme for engineers engaged in Controls and Networks system development that provides industry with a benchmarking scheme

Rockwell Automation has introduced a certification programme for engineers engaged in system development that provides the industry with a benchmarking scheme that is widely accepted by both manufacturing enterprises and automation engineering solution providers.

The opportunity to become certified will be open to all professionals utilising Rockwell Automation technologies in their business, however it is expected that only the proven best will actually qualify and make it through the arduous certification process.

Engineers can gauge their current skills by taking two free on-line pre-tests that cover Controls and Networks on the Rockwell Automation global website.

The pre-test offers guidance on whether he or she has the experience and skills to take the four hour computer-based theory test in Controls and Networks, or if additional skills are required.

Rockwell Automation offers a System-Level Integration course that prepares the engineer for the theory test.

A minimum score of 65% on both of the pre-tests is required as an entry prerequisite for this course.

The formal assessment process starts with a four-hour computer-based theory test in Controls and Networks (a minimum of 85% on both pre-tests is recommended, but not required to take the theory test).

Once the theory test is passed, the engineer then undertakes a four-hour practical project in Controls and Networks.

Successful completion of the project will lead to a Rockwell Automation Certification in Controls and Networks.

For an engineer, the aim is to become "Certified" in applying Rockwell Automation technology.

For an SI or OEM the aim is to differentiate the organisation by having the ability to offer a certified service.

The route to "Certification" for the SI or OEM is to have a minimum two certified engineers on its staff.

An engineer's certification is valid for two years.

The four-hour computer-based theory test in Controls and Networks must be re-taken at the end of each two-year period.

Certification for the SI/OEM is valid for one year and requires only re-confirmation that a minimum of two certified engineers are still employed by the SI/OEM.

Certification for an SI/OEM will be published on the Rockwell Automation website.

The engineer's certification is owned by the engineer, and thus is transferable.

The same certification programme is also available for end-user engineers, allowing companies to validate the application skills of their top engineers.

"This is a significant step forward in confirming application skills of SI/OEM engineers to the purchasers of equipment, built around Rockwell Automation technologies," says Rick Johnson, Training Capability Manager for Rockwell Automation.

"We can now confidently recommend an SI/OEM based on proven competency.

The purchaser can now require that SIs and OEMs be "Certified" in order to be on the bid list and can now also confirm that the engineer managing the project is certified." In addition to the new certification programme, Rockwell provides the full range of skills audits and training services covering industrial automation, manufacturing software and control systems.

Training can take place at its fully equipped training centre at Sutton Coldfield, or at the customer's own site.

All Certification tests and work on the projects is done at Sutton Coldfield.

The company's training services are geared to improving the utilisation and performance of production systems, and are part of the company's overall strategy of helping customers build competitive edge and improve Return on Net Assets.

The introduction of the Certification Programme is a major advance for employers and individuals who need to confirm skills competency at the highest level.

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