Credentials

American Welding Society (AWS)

• AWS D1.1 FCAW 3G & 4G
  Description: This certification focuses on Flux Cored Arc Welding techniques and is essential for those looking to work in high-demand construction and manufacturing roles.
  Career Opportunities: Welding Inspector, Structural Welder, Fabricator
  Prerequisites: Basic welding knowledge or completion of an introductory welding course.
• AWS D1.1 SMAW 3G & 4G
  Description: Specializes in Shielded Metal Arc Welding, a crucial skill for industrial and construction projects.
  Career Opportunities: Pipeline Welder, Maintenance Welder
  Prerequisites: Basic welding skills and safety training.

Cisco

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
  Description: This certification validates the ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-size routed and switched networks.
  Career Opportunities: Network Engineer, System Administrator, IT Support Specialist
  Prerequisites: Basic understanding of networking concepts.

CompTIA

• CompTIA A+
  Description: Entry-level certification for IT technicians, covering maintenance of PCs, mobile devices, laptops, operating systems, and printers.
  Career Opportunities: IT Support Specialist, Help Desk Technician, Technical Support
  Prerequisites: No formal prerequisites; basic computer knowledge recommended.
• CompTIA Network+
  Description: Validates essential knowledge and skills needed to design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks.
  Career Opportunities: Network Administrator, Network Technician, Systems Engineer
  Prerequisites: CompTIA A+ certification or equivalent knowledge.
• CompTIA Server+
  Description: Focuses on server hardware and software technologies, including installation, management, and troubleshooting.
  Career Opportunities: Server Administrator, Data Center Technician, IT Administrator
  Prerequisites: CompTIA A+ certification or equivalent knowledge and experience.

FANUC

• FANUC Certified Robot Operator (FCR-01)
  Description: Certification for operating FANUC robots, focusing on programming and operational skills.
  Career Opportunities: Robotics Operator, Automation Technician, Manufacturing Engineer
  Prerequisites: Basic understanding of robotics and automation.

Manufacturing Skills Standards Council (MSSC)

• Certified Production Technician (CPT)
  Description: Recognizes core competencies of advanced manufacturing production workers, including safety, quality practices, and maintenance.
  Career Opportunities: Production Technician, Manufacturing Specialist, Quality Technician
  Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent; basic manufacturing knowledge.
• Certified Logistics Technician (CLT)
  Description: Focuses on foundational logistics concepts, such as supply chain management, warehouse operations, and transportation.
  Career Opportunities: Logistics Coordinator, Supply Chain Analyst, Warehouse Manager
  Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent; basic logistics knowledge.

National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3)

• Introduction to Mechatronics
  Description: Covers basics of mechatronics systems, integrating mechanics, electronics, and computing.
  Career Opportunities: Mechatronics Technician, Automation Engineer, Maintenance Specialist
  Prerequisites: Basic mechanical and electrical knowledge.
• Fundamentals of Fluid Power - Pneumatics/Hydraulics
  Description: Introduces principles of fluid power systems, focusing on pneumatics and hydraulics applications.
  Career Opportunities: Hydraulic Technician, Pneumatic Specialist, Maintenance Engineer
  Prerequisites: Basic understanding of mechanical systems.
• Fundamentals of Robotics
  Description: Provides foundational knowledge of robotics, including design, programming, and operation.
  Career Opportunities: Robotics Technician, Automation Specialist, Industrial Engineer
  Prerequisites: Basic programming and mechanical skills.
• Fundamentals of Sensor Technologies
  Description: Covers the principles and applications of sensor technologies in industrial and manufacturing environments.
  Career Opportunities: Sensor Technician, Control Systems Engineer, Automation Technician
  Prerequisites: Basic electrical and mechanical knowledge.

National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER)

• NCCER Core
  Description: Entry-level certification covering basic construction skills and safety protocols.
  Career Opportunities: Construction Laborer, Apprentice, General Contractor
  Prerequisites: No formal prerequisites; suitable for beginners.
• NCCER Electrical Level 1
  Description: Introduces fundamental electrical concepts, wiring techniques, and safety practices.
  Career Opportunities: Electrician Apprentice, Electrical Technician, Maintenance Electrician
  Prerequisites: NCCER Core or equivalent basic construction knowledge.
• NCCER HVAC Level 1
  Description: Focuses on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, including installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
  Career Opportunities: HVAC Technician, Maintenance Technician, HVAC Installer
  Prerequisites: NCCER Core or equivalent basic construction knowledge.
• NCCER Construction Craft Laborer Level 1
  Description: Covers essential skills for construction craft laborers, including tool usage, safety, and basic construction techniques.
  Career Opportunities: Construction Laborer, Carpenter's Helper, General Contractor
  Prerequisites: NCCER Core or equivalent basic construction knowledge.
• NCCER Scaffolding Level 1
  Description: Focuses on the safe and effective erection, use, and dismantling of scaffolding systems.
  Career Opportunities: Scaffolding Erector, Construction Laborer, Safety Technician
  Prerequisites: NCCER Core or equivalent basic construction knowledge.

National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of American Educational Institute (NEI)

• Certified Customs Specialist (CCS)
  Description: Certification for professionals involved in customs brokerage and trade compliance, focusing on regulations and procedures.
  Career Opportunities: Customs Broker, Trade Compliance Specialist, Import/Export Coordinator
  Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of customs regulations and international trade.
• Certified Export Specialist (CES)
  Description: Covers the key aspects of export regulations, documentation, and logistics management.
  Career Opportunities: Export Compliance Specialist, International Trade Coordinator, Logistics Manager
  Prerequisites: Basic understanding of export procedures and regulations.
• Certified Zone Specialist (CZS)
  Description: This certification focuses on the expertise required for managing Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZs). It covers the regulations, procedures, and best practices for operating within these zones.
  Career Opportunities: FTZ Administrator, Customs Broker, Trade Compliance Specialist
  Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of customs regulations and international trade, as well as experience in trade compliance or logistics.
• Master Customs Specialist (MCS)
  Description: The Master Customs Specialist certification is designed for advanced professionals in customs brokerage. It provides in-depth knowledge of customs regulations, classification, valuation, and trade agreements.
  Career Opportunities: Senior Customs Broker, Compliance Manager, International Trade Consultant
  Prerequisites: Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) certification or equivalent experience, along with extensive knowledge of customs procedures and regulations.
• Master Export Specialist (MES)
  Description: This certification provides advanced training in export regulations, documentation, and logistics management. It is intended for professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in international trade and export compliance.
  Career Opportunities: Senior Export Compliance Specialist, International Trade Manager, Export Logistics Coordinator
  Prerequisites: Certified Export Specialist (CES) certification or equivalent experience, with a solid understanding of export procedures and regulations.

National Institute of Metalworking Skills

• Measurement, Materials & Safety
  Description: Fundamental certification focusing on precise measurement techniques, material properties, and safety in metalworking.
  Career Opportunities: Machinist, Quality Control Inspector, Manufacturing Technician
  Prerequisites: Basic math skills and mechanical aptitude.
• Job Planning, Benchwork & Layout
  Description: Introduces essential skills for job planning, manual benchwork, and layout procedures in metalworking.
  Career Opportunities: Machinist, Tool and Die Maker, Manufacturing Planner
  Prerequisites: Basic mechanical knowledge and prior experience in metalworking.
• Drill Press I
  Description: Focuses on the operation and safety of drill press machines, including drilling techniques and tool maintenance.
  Career Opportunities: Machinist, Machine Operator, Maintenance Technician
  Prerequisites: Basic understanding of machining processes.
• Milling I
  Description: Covers the basics of milling operations, including setup, tool selection, and machining techniques.
  Career Opportunities: CNC Operator, Machinist, Manufacturing Technician
  Prerequisites: Basic mechanical knowledge and machining experience.
• Turning Operations: Turning Between Centers
  Description: Provides skills for turning operations on a lathe, focusing on precision and accuracy.
  Career Opportunities: Machinist, CNC Operator, Tool and Die Maker
  Prerequisites: Basic machining knowledge and prior experience with lathes.

Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA)

• Certified Industry 4.0 Associate I – Basic Operations
  Description: Covers the fundamentals of Industry 4.0, including basic operations and smart manufacturing concepts.
  Career Opportunities: Automation Technician, Industry 4.0 Specialist, Manufacturing Technician
  Prerequisites: Basic understanding of industrial processes and automation.
• Certified Industry 4.0 Associate II – Advanced Operations
  Description: Builds on basic operations with advanced Industry 4.0 technologies and smart manufacturing systems.
  Career Opportunities: Automation Engineer, Industry 4.0 Specialist, Systems Integrator
  Prerequisites: Certified Industry 4.0 Associate I or equivalent knowledge.
• Certified Industry 4.0 Associate IV – IIoT, Network and Data Analytics
  Description: Focuses on Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), networking, and data analytics for smart manufacturing.
  Career Opportunities: IIoT Specialist, Data Analyst, Network Engineer
  Prerequisites: Certified Industry 4.0 Associate II or equivalent knowledge.

South Texas College Center for Advanced Training & Apprenticeships

• Forklift Training & Certification
  Description: Provides comprehensive training in the safe operation of forklifts, including practical and theoretical components.
  Career Opportunities: Forklift Operator, Warehouse Worker, Logistics Technician
  Prerequisites: No formal prerequisites; suitable for beginners.