Top 10 Manufacturing Certifications

Certifications for a manufacturing company are important in the job market because they can demonstrate the capabilities of an organization's workforce. Certifications show potential employers that the company is committed to providing a high quality of service and products, as well as having an established system of quality control. They also provide an indication that the organization has taken steps to ensure that their employees have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their jobs safely and effectively. Additionally, certifications can help attract qualified applicants who may be looking for a job with a reputable company. Finally, certification can open up new markets and opportunities for growth, as potential customers may feel more confident in choosing a certified manufacturer over one without any certifications.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Manufacturing, and explain how they can help to advance a career in the field.

What are Manufacturing Certifications?

Manufacturing certification is a quality assurance process that ensures that products meet certain standards and specifications. It involves rigorous testing, inspections and audits of manufacturing processes, materials and finished products to ensure they meet the required standards. The process also includes documentation of the production process and the final product.

Manufacturing certification can help companies to ensure their products are safe, reliable, and compliant with applicable regulations, as well as demonstrate quality to customers. Companies obtain certification to gain competitive advantages in the market by showing customers that their products have been tested and verified for safety or other quality criteria. Certification may also be required by governments or other organizations in order for companies to do business with them or sell their products in certain markets. In addition, manufacturers can use certification as a way to differentiate themselves from competitors and attract new customers.

Pro Tip: When considering manufacturing certification, research the organization and its reputation to ensure that the certifications they offer are credible and widely accepted in the industry. Additionally, be sure to look into any prerequisites and requirements for certification so you can prepare ahead of time.

Related: What does a Manufacturing do?

Top 10 Manufacturing Certifications

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

1. Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE)

Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and expertise of manufacturing engineers. It is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), a global leader in quality assurance and improvement. The CMfgE certification is designed to demonstrate that an individual has a broad understanding of the principles and practices of modern manufacturing engineering.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as product design, production processes, quality control, cost analysis, safety management, and environmental regulations. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes about three hours to complete. In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also have at least four years of experience in the field or have completed a bachelor's degree in manufacturing engineering or related field.

The fee to take the CMfgE exam is $450 for ASQ members and $550 for non-members. Applicants must also pay a one-time application fee of $50 when they submit their application. Once certified, individuals must renew their certification every three years by paying a renewal fee of $150.

2. Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). CPIM is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage production and inventory activities in an organization. The program consists of five courses that cover topics such as demand management, forecasting, master scheduling, materials requirements planning, capacity planning, supplier relationships, quality control, and continuous improvement.

It typically takes about 18 months to complete the CPIM program. To get started on the program, you must first become a member of APICS. Once you are a member, you can register for the five courses that make up the CPIM program. Each course has an associated fee which ranges from $495 to $695 depending on whether or not you are an APICS member. After completing all five courses and passing the associated exams, you will be awarded your CPIM certification.

The total cost of obtaining your CPIM certification depends on whether or not you are an APICS member as well as how quickly you complete the program. Generally speaking, it is estimated that it costs between $2,000-$3,000 to obtain your CPIM certification.

3. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CQE certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s competence in the field of quality engineering. It is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in quality engineering principles, techniques, and practices.

It typically takes between 6-9 months to prepare for and pass the CQE exam. Preparation includes studying for the exam and gaining hands-on experience in quality engineering. To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as statistical analysis, design of experiments, process improvement, quality systems management, and product/process assurance.

The cost of becoming a CQE varies depending on how you choose to prepare for the exam. If you choose to take an ASQ review course or purchase study materials from ASQ, fees range from $400-$600 USD. If you prefer to self-study for the exam without taking a review course or purchasing study materials from ASQ, then there are no additional fees beyond the cost of registering for and taking the exam ($395 USD).

4. Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB)

Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's expertise in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. The CSSGB certification is designed to recognize individuals who have a thorough understanding of the principles and tools used in Lean Six Sigma and can apply them to improve processes.

The Lean Six Sigma methodology is a problem-solving approach that uses data-driven analysis to identify root causes of problems, develop solutions, and measure results. It combines two proven methodologies – Lean and Six Sigma – to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and increase customer satisfaction.

To become certified as a CSSGB, you must pass an exam administered by either the American Society for Quality (ASQ) or the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC). The exams are typically three hours long and cover topics such as process improvement strategies, problem solving techniques, data analysis methods, project management skills, and more.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on which organization you choose to take it through. The ASQ exam costs $395 USD while the IASSC exam costs $295 USD.

It typically takes about three months of preparation to pass the CSSGB exam. During this time, you should focus on studying materials related to Lean Six Sigma methodology such as books, online courses, or practice exams. You may also want to attend an in-person training course or workshop if available in your area.

5. Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CLSSBB)

Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CLSSBB) is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to lead Lean Six Sigma projects, as well as the ability to develop and deploy process improvement initiatives. The CLSSBB certification is designed for individuals who have experience in leading Lean Six Sigma projects and want to demonstrate their expertise in the field.

The CLSSBB certification requires a minimum of three years of work experience in the area of Lean Six Sigma, along with completion of an approved training program. The training program typically consists of two weeks of classroom instruction, followed by two weeks of online learning. The cost for the training program varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,000.

In order to receive the CLSSBB certification, candidates must also pass an exam that covers topics such as project management, process improvement methodology, problem-solving tools and techniques, data analysis tools and techniques, and change management principles. The exam is administered by an accredited testing organization such as ASQ or IASSC. The cost for the exam varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500 to $1,000.

Once a candidate has successfully completed all requirements for the CLSSBB certification they will receive a certificate that is valid for three years. In order to maintain their certification they must complete at least 30 hours of continuing education every three years.

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

Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in quality management, organizational excellence, and performance improvement.

The CMQ/OE certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as quality management principles, process improvement, customer satisfaction, leadership, strategy development and deployment, team building, problem solving and decision making. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be taken at one of ASQ's approved testing centers.

It typically takes three to six months to study for the exam and prepare for it. Candidates can use self-study materials or attend a review course offered by ASQ or an approved provider. It is also recommended that candidates have at least five years of work experience in quality management or related areas before taking the exam.

The cost of the CMQ/OE certification varies depending on how you choose to prepare for the exam. The cost of the exam itself is $349 USD for ASQ members or $449 USD for non-members. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with self-study materials or review courses.

7. Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a professional certification issued by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to recognize supply management professionals who have demonstrated expertise in the field. The CPSM designation is intended to demonstrate mastery of the knowledge and skills needed to excel as a supply management professional.

To become certified, you must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass three exams, and agree to abide by ISM’s Code of Ethics. The entire process typically takes between 12-18 months.

The first step in becoming certified is to meet the eligibility requirements. You must have either a bachelor's degree or five years of full-time work experience in supply management with at least two years in a supervisory role.

The second step is to register for and pass three exams: Fundamentals of Supply Management, Professional Practices in Supply Management, and Strategic Sourcing & Negotiation. Each exam costs $200 USD and can be taken online or at an approved testing center.

The final step is to submit an application for certification along with proof of your educational qualifications and work experience. Once your application has been approved, you will receive your CPSM certificate from ISM.

In total, the cost of becoming certified can range from $600-$900 USD depending on how long it takes you to complete the process.

8. Certified Quality Auditor (CQA)

Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skills in auditing, quality management systems, and quality assurance. The CQA credential indicates that an individual has the necessary knowledge and experience to audit a company’s quality system and identify areas of improvement.

The CQA exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as auditing principles, techniques, practices, and regulations. The exam also includes questions on quality management systems, process capability analysis, statistical process control, problem solving methods, and more.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CQA exam. During this time you should study the material covered on the exam and practice with sample questions. You can find study materials from ASQ or other sources online. Additionally, you may want to consider taking a review course or attending seminars to help you prepare for the exam.

To get your CQA certification you must pass the CQA exam with a score of at least 70%. Once you have passed the exam you will receive your certification in approximately six weeks.

The cost of getting your CQA certification varies depending on where you take it and how much preparation you do beforehand. Generally speaking it can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD to take the exam plus any additional costs associated with studying or taking courses prior to taking the test.

9. American Society for Quality – Certified Calibration Technician (ASQ-CCT)

The American Society for Quality – Certified Calibration Technician (ASQ-CCT) is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the field of calibration. This certification is designed to ensure that those working in the calibration field have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to properly perform their duties.

To become an ASQ-CCT certified technician, you must first complete a course of study that covers topics such as metrology, instrumentation, and electrical safety. The course must be approved by the ASQ and should take approximately 40 hours to complete. Once you have completed the course, you must pass an examination administered by ASQ to receive your certification.

The cost of becoming an ASQ-CCT certified technician varies depending on where you take the course and how long it takes you to complete it. Generally speaking, the cost can range from $500-$1,000 for the entire process.

Once you are certified as an ASQ-CCT technician, you will be able to demonstrate your expertise in calibration and gain recognition within your profession. You will also be eligible for higher pay and more job opportunities in related fields.

10. International Standards Organization – ISO 9001 Lead Auditor

The International Standards Organization (ISO) 9001 Lead Auditor is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in auditing the quality management system of an organization. The certification is based on the ISO 9001 standard which provides requirements for a quality management system.

It typically takes approximately one year to get the ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certification. To become certified, you must first complete a course approved by the International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA). This course will teach you the principles and practices of auditing, as well as how to apply them to an ISO 9001-compliant quality management system. After completing the course, you must pass an exam administered by IRCA in order to be certified.

The cost of obtaining your ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certification varies depending on where you take your course and what other materials are included with it. Generally speaking, courses range from $1,000-$4,000 USD for the full program including exam fees.

Once certified, you will be able to audit organizations for compliance with ISO 9001 standards and provide feedback on their quality management systems.

Do You Really Need a Manufacturing Certificate?

When it comes to manufacturing, a certificate can be extremely beneficial. A certification in manufacturing can help you advance your career and provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the field. This certification will not only help you become more knowledgeable about the process of manufacturing, but it can also give you an edge when applying for jobs and promotions.

However, depending on where you are in your career, a manufacturing certificate may not be necessary. If you already have experience in the industry or understand the basics of production, then a certificate may not provide much additional benefit. Additionally, if you’re looking to enter into a specific type of manufacturing such as automotive or aerospace production, then specialized certifications may be more beneficial than a general one.

In addition to considering whether or not a manufacturing certificate is necessary for your career goals, it’s important to consider the cost associated with obtaining one. Depending on where you pursue certification and how long it takes to complete, costs can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. This is something that should be taken into account before deciding whether or not a certificate is worth pursuing.

Overall, whether or not you need a manufacturing certificate depends on your current experience level and what type of career path you are looking to take within the industry. If specialized certifications are required for certain positions or promotions that interest you, then obtaining one could prove invaluable down the line. However, if existing experience and knowledge are enough to get by without an official certification then it may be better left off your resume for now.

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FAQs About Manufacturing Certifications

1. What is a Manufacturing Certification?

Answer: A Manufacturing Certification is a credential that recognizes an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of manufacturing. It is awarded by professional organizations or educational institutions and can be used to demonstrate proficiency in a certain area of manufacturing.

2. What are the benefits of having a Manufacturing Certification?

Answer: Having a Manufacturing Certification can help you stand out from other job applicants, as it shows employers that you have specialized knowledge and skills in the industry. It can also open up opportunities for career advancement, higher pay, and increased job security.

3. How do I get a Manufacturing Certification?

Answer: You must meet certain requirements set by the certifying organization or institution before you can receive your certification. This may include completing an approved course or program, passing an examination, and/or meeting minimum work experience criteria.

4. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The amount of time required to obtain certification will vary depending on the organization or institution offering it, but typically ranges from six months to two years.

5. Is there an expiration date on my certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifications have an expiration date associated with them that must be renewed periodically in order to maintain validity.