ArcWatch: GIS News, Views, and Insights
December 2010
Earn the New Esri Technical Certification
Program Set to Launch in January 2011
The Esri Technical Certification emblem shows that a person is a skilled Esri software user.
GIS professionals will soon be able to earn technical certifications that demonstrate their proficiency using Esri software. Examinations will begin next month for the new Esri Technical Certification Program, which will recognize expertise in desktop, developer, and enterprise use of Esri technology.
Earning a certification means an individual possesses a high level of technical expertise using Esri software.
"Esri set the industry benchmark for GIS technology. Now we're setting a standard for users, establishing a community of individuals who've demonstrated their proficiency in using Esri software," said Nick Frunzi, director of Educational Services at Esri. "This raises the bar for ArcGIS skills."
The first certifications will be offered starting in late January 2011 and will include ArcGIS Desktop Associate, ArcGIS Desktop Professional, Web Application Developer Associate, Enterprise Geodatabase Management Associate, and Enterprise Administration Associate. Eight more certifications will be added to the program later in 2011. To learn more or register for a certification exam, visit esri.com/certification.
The examinations, which will take about two hours to complete and include 90-95 multiple choice questions, will be available at 5,000 locations in 165 countries. The exams will be offered in English only.
The new program is designed to
- Create a community of professionals proficient in using Esri software that can design, implement, and administer a successful GIS.
- Help organizations maximize their investment in Esri products by employing a workforce certified in using GIS best practices.
- Create professional development opportunities for Esri software users.
- Help companies, government agencies, and other organizations assess job candidates' GIS skills and abilities.
- Give Esri software users, GIS consultants and instructors, and Esri partners the opportunity to differentiate themselves and their organizations with their unique qualifications.
The Esri Technical Certification Program complements the geographic information system professional (GISP) certification available in the United States through the GIS Certification Institute. The GISP designation certifies GIS professionals who have met minimum standards for ethical conduct and professional practice, while the Esri Technical Certification Program recognizes specific skills and expertise in using Esri software.
To learn more about taking the exams, visit esri.com/certification.
