The CEDIA Integrated Systems Technician (IST) certification has recently achieved accreditation to the global ISO standard. The lengthy process began as a grassroots effort. Integrators who are on the jobsite every day who wanted to create something we can all be proud of stepped up and offered their expertise to build a certification every technician should have.
The IST certification represents the core skills all technicians in our industry need. These skills are essentials, not luxuries, so having the certification is a way to distinguish yourself as a credible professional.
This certification is designed to be a natural part of your journey in the smart home industry. The Cabling and Infrastructure Technician (CIT) certification is the first rung on the ladder to leveling up your career. It teaches the fundamentals of the industry and gives you a solid working foundation for the industry.
To be eligible for the IST certification, you must first pass the CIT exam. The IST certification is the next level of learning demonstrating your ability to work independently on a jobsite. While the program is robust, it is attainable. It’s not an overnight process, though, and will take effort and dedication to obtain and maintain your credentials in the long run.
Your Professional Development Elevates the Industry
As an individual, when you pass the exam, the certification can travel with you between employers and in your own business – great news for those working to establish careers.
But it’s not just about you as an individual.
Having globally recognized professional certification programs legitimizes our industry and elevates the level of work technicians do and foresee in the future. As insiders, we see excellence in integrator projects all the time, but having a third-party step in and say that CEDIA certification meets international standards (ISO) is a big deal.
Other trades haven’t always recognized integration as a standalone trade. Through certification, we’re working to change that. Your choice in professional certification can make all the difference.
CEDIA has and will continue to work with the home technology industry to build our reputation. Having a workforce certified to high standards benefits everyone, including you and your business - whether you work for someone, have your own business, or are thinking about striking out on your own. Credentials are a way to set yourself apart and continually hold yourself to high standards as you grow.
Manufacturers also support the certification effort. Knowing the workforce has a solid understanding of foundational concepts means they can focus on more advanced, product-based specifics when you attend their trainings.
How to Take the Next Step
So, you’re thinking about CIT and IST certification. Here’s what to do next:
Consider attending industry events and earning the CIT or IST certification.
At ISE 2023, attendees can demonstrate their commitment to maturing our workforce by registering for CIT and IST examinations. Registrants will be offered flexible options for scheduling and taking the exam.
Education isn’t required to take any exam, but for those looking to brush up on their knowledge, there are online and in-person learning opportunities throughout the year through CEDIA, industry distributors, and other companies who offer learning programs.
If you’re a current ESC-T holder, you can transition your certification to the IST by completing the required CEUs and renewal application form. The IST is a newer and more updated version of the ESC-T certification that retains the same target level of knowledge and general scope. You can learn more about the IST and the processes for transitioning your certification here.
CEDIA certification is driven by the desire to elevate the industry. The dedicated volunteers and subject matter experts are invaluable to developing the program which will soon become the standard for everyone in smart home technology. It’s truly a qualification by the integrator for the integrator, which means that when you participate, everyone around you is positively impacted. You have the power to help shape the industry: what will you choose to do?