Top 11 CMM Operator Certifications

Certifications are important for CMM operators in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and proficiency in the operation of Coordinate Measuring Machines. A certification shows potential employers that the operator is knowledgeable in the operation and maintenance of CMM equipment, has acquired a certain level of training, and is familiar with industry standards and best practices. This can increase an operator's chances of getting hired for a position, as employers are more likely to trust someone who is certified compared to someone without any qualifications. Additionally, certifications can open up opportunities for advancement within a company or allow an operator to move into different roles that require CMM-specific knowledge.

This article reviews the top certifications for CMM Operators and explains how they can help further a cmm operator's career.

What are CMM Operator Certifications?

CMM Operator Certification is a certification program designed to ensure that operators of Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) are able to use the equipment safely and accurately. This certification helps to ensure that CMM operators have the necessary skills, knowledge and training to properly operate CMMs in order to produce accurate measurements and results.

The certification program consists of training courses, written tests and practical exams. The courses cover topics such as safety, calibration, operation, programming, data analysis and reporting. Upon completion of the coursework and tests, CMM operators can obtain a certificate from an accredited organization such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

Having CMM operator certification can help to improve product quality by ensuring that measurements taken with CMMs are accurate. It also reduces the risk of errors or accidents due to improper use of equipment. Furthermore, having certified CMM operators can enhance a company’s reputation for quality assurance and increase customer confidence in their products. Having certified operators can also help companies save money by reducing costs associated with rework or scrap due to inaccurate measurements.

Pro Tip: When looking to obtain a CMM Operator Certification, make sure to research the requirements and qualifications for the specific certifying organization you are looking to receive certification from. Depending on the organization, there may be different requirements or prerequisites that must be met prior to taking the exam. Additionally, it is important to ensure that any certifications obtained are compliant with industry standards.

Related: What does a CMM Operator do?

Top 11 CMM Operator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to CMM Operators today.

1. ASQ Certified Calibration Technician (CCT)

ASQ Certified Calibration Technician (CCT) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CCT certification is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in calibration, metrology, and related areas.

The CCT certification requires candidates to pass an exam that covers topics such as measurement uncertainty, instrument calibration, metrology principles, and quality management systems. To be eligible for the CCT exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience in calibration or metrology-related activities.

The CCT exam takes about three hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. The cost of the exam is $395 for ASQ members and $495 for non-members. Candidates must also pay a $50 application fee when applying for the exam.

Once certified, individuals must maintain their certification by completing continuing education requirements every three years. This includes earning at least 30 recertification units (RUs) through professional development activities such as attending conferences, participating in webinars, or taking courses related to calibration or metrology.

2. ASQ Certified Quality Technician (CQT)

The ASQ Certified Quality Technician (CQT) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in the application of quality principles, practices, and tools. The CQT certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as quality concepts, tools and techniques, process analysis and improvement, measurement systems analysis, auditing, problem solving and more.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to prepare for the CQT exam. To get started on your path to certification you must first become an ASQ member. After becoming a member you can then register for the CQT exam. The cost of the exam is $300 USD for members and $400 USD for non-members.

3. ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CQE certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in quality engineering, assurance, and control. It is one of the most widely recognized certifications in the field of quality engineering.

It typically takes between six months and two years to prepare for the CQE exam. During this time, candidates should focus on developing a comprehensive understanding of quality engineering principles, tools, and techniques. Candidates should also review ASQ’s Body of Knowledge (BoK), which contains all of the topics covered on the exam.

To become certified as a CQE, candidates must pass an examination administered by ASQ. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as statistical process control, design of experiments, reliability methods, inspection techniques, and quality systems management. Candidates must also demonstrate their ability to apply these concepts through case studies and problem-solving exercises.

The cost for taking the CQE exam varies depending on your location; however, it typically ranges from $450 to $600 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam or purchasing study materials.

4. ASQ Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB)

ASQ Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the principles and practices of Six Sigma. The CSSBB certification is considered one of the most prestigious certifications in the quality management field.

It typically takes between two and three years to earn the CSSBB certification. Candidates must first pass an exam that covers topics such as process improvement, project management, team dynamics, data analysis, and more. After passing this exam, candidates must then complete a minimum of four projects demonstrating their ability to apply Six Sigma principles and tools. Once these projects are completed and approved by ASQ, candidates will be awarded their CSSBB certification.

The cost of obtaining the CSSBB certification varies depending on how you choose to prepare for the exam. Self-study materials can range from $200-$500 while more comprehensive courses can cost upwards of $2,000 or more. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam itself as well as any other related fees or expenses.

Overall, earning your CSSBB certification can be a rewarding experience that will open up many new opportunities in your career. It demonstrates your commitment to quality excellence and sets you apart from other professionals in your field.

5. ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE)

ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to lead organizations in achieving quality and organizational excellence. The certification exam assesses an individual’s knowledge and skills in the areas of quality management, organizational excellence, leadership, customer satisfaction, process improvement, and performance measurement.

The CMQ/OE certification is valid for three years from the date it was earned. To maintain certification status, individuals must earn at least 60 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) during each three-year period.

To become certified as a CMQ/OE, an individual must meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least five years of work experience in a managerial role related to quality or organizational excellence. Additionally, candidates must pass the CMQ/OE exam which consists of 150 multiple choice questions that must be completed within four hours.

The cost for the ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) exam is $450 USD for ASQ members and $600 USD for non-members.

6. ASQ Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE)

The ASQ Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in reliability engineering. The CRE certification is based on the Body of Knowledge (BoK) established by ASQ.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to prepare for the exam, depending on an individual's background and experience. To get certified, applicants must pass a two-part exam which consists of a written test and an oral presentation. The written test covers topics such as reliability principles, testing methods, failure analysis, design for reliability, maintenance strategies, and quality assurance. The oral presentation focuses on a project that demonstrates an applicant's understanding of reliability engineering principles.

The cost of the certification varies depending on whether or not you are an ASQ member; members pay $450 USD while non-members pay $600 USD. Additionally, there may be other fees associated with taking the exam such as travel costs or exam proctoring fees.

7. ASQ Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE)

ASQ Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in software quality engineering. The CSQE exam focuses on topics such as software quality assurance, software testing, software metrics, and process improvement.

It typically takes approximately 6-12 months to prepare for the CSQE exam. Preparation includes studying the ASQ Body of Knowledge, reading recommended books and articles, attending training sessions or seminars related to software quality engineering, and completing practice exams.

To get the CSQE certification, you must pass the CSQE exam administered by ASQ (American Society for Quality). The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and lasts four hours.

The cost of taking the CSQE exam is $450 for ASQ members and $575 for non-members.

8. American Society for Quality Control Measurement Professionals Certification (ASQCMP)

The American Society for Quality Control Measurement Professionals (ASQCMP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a level of expertise in quality control and measurement. The ASQCMP certification is designed to improve the knowledge and skills of professionals in the field of quality control and measurement, as well as provide recognition for those who have achieved a high level of proficiency.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain requirements such as having at least three years of experience in quality control or measurement, completing an approved training course, passing an exam, and demonstrating their knowledge and skills through a portfolio review. The entire process typically takes 4-6 months to complete.

The cost of the ASQCMP certification varies depending on the type of training course taken and any additional fees associated with the exam or portfolio review. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1,000 USD.

Once certified, individuals are required to maintain their certification by continuing their education in the field through approved courses or activities every three years. This helps ensure that certified professionals stay up-to-date with current trends and best practices in quality control and measurement.

9. International Society of Automation Measurement and Control Technicians Certification (ISA-MCT)

The International Society of Automation Measurement and Control Technicians (ISA-MCT) certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of automation and control. The ISA-MCT certification is designed for technicians, engineers, and other professionals working in the field of automation and control engineering.

The certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as electrical systems, instrumentation, control systems, process operations, safety practices, troubleshooting techniques, and more. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To be eligible for the ISA-MCT certification exam, applicants must have at least two years of work experience in the field or an associate’s degree in a related discipline. Applicants must also submit proof of their work experience or education credentials when applying for the exam.

The cost of the ISA-MCT certification exam is $295 USD. After successfully passing the exam, applicants will receive their official ISA-MCT certificate within four to six weeks. The certificate is valid for five years before it needs to be renewed by taking a recertification exam.

10. National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies CMM Operator Certification Program

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) CMM Operator Certification Program is a professional certification program designed to recognize the proficiency of individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the operation of coordinate measuring machines (CMMs). The program covers topics such as basic CMM operations, programming, quality control, and inspection techniques.

The program consists of two levels: Level I CMM Operator and Level II CMM Operator. Each level requires passing an exam that tests knowledge and skills related to the operation of CMMs. The exams are offered at NICET testing centers throughout the United States.

Level I CMM Operator Certification typically takes about 6 months to complete, depending on the individual's study habits and availability of testing centers. To get certified as a Level I CMM Operator, applicants must first complete a pre-qualification process that includes submitting an application form and passing a basic math test. After passing this pre-qualification process, applicants can then register for the Level I exam with NICET. Once registered, applicants can begin studying for the exam using NICET’s study materials or other resources available online or from local libraries.

To earn Level II CMM Operator Certification, applicants must first pass the Level I exam and then complete an additional three years of work experience operating CMMs in an industrial setting before they can qualify to take the Level II exam.

The cost to take each level of the NICET CMM Operator Certification Program varies depending on location but generally ranges from $200-$400 per exam.

11. American Society of Mechanical Engineers CMM Operator Certification Program

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) CMM Operator Certification Program is a professional certification program designed to provide an assessment of the skills and knowledge necessary to operate Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs). The program is designed for individuals who have a basic understanding of the principles of metrology and are familiar with the operation of CMMs.

The program consists of two components: a written exam and an on-site practical evaluation. The written exam covers topics such as measurement techniques, calibration, data analysis, and quality control. The practical evaluation consists of demonstrating proficiency in operating a CMM by completing tasks such as setting up the machine, measuring parts, analyzing data, and troubleshooting problems.

It typically takes about six months to complete the certification process. To get certified, individuals must first register with ASME and pay a fee. After registration is complete, they will be given access to study materials and practice tests that can help them prepare for the written exam. Once they pass the written exam, they will be eligible to take the practical evaluation at an approved facility.

The cost for certification varies depending on the type of CMM being used for the practical evaluation. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1,000 USD for certification.

Do You Really Need a CMM Operator Certificate?

No, you do not need a CMM operator certificate to become a CMM operator. However, having one can help demonstrate your expertise and give you an edge over other applicants in the job market. A CMM operator certificate can also help you stand out when applying for positions that require certifications.

The primary benefit of having a CMM operator certificate is that it shows employers that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to complete the job. It demonstrates that you understand how to use the equipment and how to produce accurate results with minimal errors. Additionally, having a certificate can give employers confidence in your abilities as they know that you have been properly trained and certified on the specific type of machine they are looking for.

Having a CMM operator certificate can also make it easier for employers to find qualified candidates who meet their specific requirements. If an employer is looking for someone with experience operating a certain type of machine, they may be more likely to consider applicants who have certification than those who don’t. This is especially true if the employer is looking for someone with specialized knowledge or skills related to their industry or project.

In conclusion, while having a CMM operator certificate is not necessarily required, it can definitely be beneficial in helping you land a job as a CMM operator or in any position that requires certifications.

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FAQs About CMM Operator Certifications

1. What is a CMM Operator Certification?

Answer: A CMM Operator Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates proficiency in the operation of Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs). It validates an operator's ability to safely and accurately perform CMM operations and data collection, as well as interpret measurement results.

2. How do I obtain a CMM Operator Certification?

Answer: To obtain a CMM Operator Certification, you must first complete a recognized training program. Many schools, colleges, or trade organizations offer training programs specific to CMM operation. After completing the training program, you must pass an exam to receive your certification.

3. Who should get a CMM Operator Certification?

Answer: Any individual who will be responsible for operating or programming CMMs should consider obtaining a CMM Operator Certification. This includes engineers, technicians, machinists, and quality assurance personnel who are involved in measuring parts and components.

4. What are the benefits of having a CMM Operator Certification?

Answer: Having a CMM Operator Certification demonstrates that an individual has obtained the necessary knowledge and skills to safely and accurately operate CMMs. It also gives employers assurance that their operators have been properly trained and certified in this field of work.

5. Is there an expiration date for my CMM Operator Certification?

Answer: Generally speaking, most certifications do not expire unless they require continuing education credits to maintain them active. However, it is important to check with the issuing organization to confirm their specific requirements for keeping your certification active.