Engineering Technicians

Certification or Licensing

Certification and licensing requirements vary by specialty. Check with your state's department of labor and professional associations within your field for further information.

Many engineering technicians choose to become certified by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies. To become certified, you must combine a specific amount of job-related experience with an examination. Certifications are offered in civil, electrical, and mechanical systems engineering, and at several levels of expertise. Such certification is generally voluntary, although obtaining certification shows a high level of commitment and dedication that employers find highly desirable.

Electronics engineering technicians may obtain voluntary certification from the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians and Electronics Technician Association International. Certification is regarded as a demonstration of professional dedication, determination, and know-how.

SpaceTEC, which provides skill-based, nationally recognized certifications for the U.S. aerospace industry, provides a certification for entry-level employees. The certification covers general knowledge in six areas: introduction to aerospace, applied mechanics, basic electricity, test and measurements, materials and processes, and aerospace safety. It also offers concentration examinations in aerospace vehicle processing, aerospace manufacturing, and aerospace composites.