Associations Focus: Systems Installer and Integrator Certification Exams
Dec 1, 2004 12:00 PM
NSCA will roll out the first offering of EST certification exams at next year’s Expo.
At the 2005 Systems Integration Expo to be held March 10 to 12 in Orlando, Fla., NSCA will roll out the first offering of EST certification exams for systems installers and integrators. The certified systems installer (C-SI) and registered electronic systems integrator (R-ESI) designations complement C-EST, a certification launched earlier this year and currently held by 100 people nationwide.
The NSCA will launch its EST certification exams at next year’s Expo.
“EST training and certification has really taken off,” says James Beckham, president, Audio Video Corporation in Amarillo, Texas, and credentialing chairman to NSCA’s board of directors. “It’s very exciting to watch something so important to our industry become so highly respected.”
C-SI is for professionals with at least one year of industry work experience who are responsible for the installation of electronic communications equipment and infrastructure, including but not limited to cable, fiber optics, and electronic devices. A written test and hands-on performance verification are required, covering such topics as introduction to the trade, construction materials and methods, pathways and spaces, electrical safety, low-voltage cabling, DC circuits, and codes and standards.
C-EST is for professionals with two or more years industry experience whose primary occupation is the commercial or residential design and/or integration, installation, and field maintenance/service of cabling, infrastructure, and/or products that transport voice, video, audio and data signals; products that capture and display or otherwise annunciate signals; products that control signals; and products that use signals to control mechanical and electrical apparatus. A written test and hands-on performance verification are required, covering some of the same topics as the test and verification for the C-SI certifiation, such as AC circuits, basic electronic theory, test and analysis equipment, power quality and grounding, switching devices and timers, computer applications, cable selection, and fiber optics.
R-ESI is for professionals with four or more years work experience who can plan installations, read and interpret plans and specifications, guide and supervise other craftsmen, and understand and execute good industry work practices. An R-ESI must be proficient at directing others in fieldwork as well as planning their own work. This work includes, but is not limited to, the following: integrated automation, electronics, and electronic safety and security, as reflected in the 2004 edition of CSI’s MasterFormat. A written test is required, covering such topics as audio systems, video systems, wireless communication, fire alarm systems, access control systems, broadband, systems integration, and media management.
Certification exams for C-SI, C-EST and R-ESI are slated for numerous times beginning March 9. Candidates uncertain of their readiness to sit for any of the exams may take an online assessment test and receive a suggested training plan. Review courses are available through NSCA University at www.nsca.org/est.
The Systems Integration Expo exhibit dates are March 10 to 12 in the Orange County Convention Center. Conference dates are March 7 to 9. A schedule of certification exam offerings, a full exhibitors list, education descriptions, and housing reservations can be found at www.nscaexpo.org or by calling NSCA at (800) 446-6722. Members of NSCA and the PSA Security Network receive free exhibit passes and discounted education.
NSCA BUILDING CONNECTIONS
For more information about NSCA, visit www.nsca.org or call (800) 446-6722.
