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NICET TO HOST ONLINE SPECIAL HAZARDS VOLUNTEER INFORMATION SESSION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Heather Gerum, Certification Test Developer
Email: hgerum@nicet.org
Website: www.nicet.org
NICET TO HOST ONLINE SPECIAL HAZARDS VOLUNTEER INFORMATION SESSION
A Discussion Explaining the Redevelopment Efforts of the Special Hazards Certification Exams
Alexandria, VA - November 29, 2011 - NICET is seeking volunteers to write and review new questions for the Special Hazards certification exams, which are undergoing conversion to the Computer-Based Testing (CBT) model.
NICET announced today that the Development Department will host two virtual information sessions to provide information about the exams redevelopment efforts. The virtual sessions are scheduled for:
Monday, December 5, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. PDT Register now!
Thursday, December 8, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. EDT Register now!
It's important to stay abreast of the industries we serve and update our services according to the industry needs and changes. This update is an opportunity for us both to make the Special Hazards exams more convenient to the candidates by converting the exam to CBT and to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the exams by updating the content using standard testing principles," said Ahmed Farouki, Senior Director, Technical Services.
To learn more about this exciting opportunity to assist NICET redevelop the Special Hazards certification exams, register to attend Monday or Thursday's virtual information session! If you are unable to attend the information sessions, a recorded version of the sessions will be available December 12 on-demand on the NICET website, www.nicet.org.
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About NICET
The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET), a division of the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), provides an independent and rigorous evaluation of knowledge and experience among individuals in the fields of engineering technology. Founded in 1961, NICET serves as a respected authority in many technical fields, and has certified more than 130,000 technicians and technologists. For more information, please visit www.nicet.org.
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NICET HOLDS FIRST ONLINE VOLUNTEER INFORMATION SESSION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Heather Gerum, Certification Test Developer
Email: hgerum@nicet.org
Website: www.nicet.org
NICET HOLDS FIRST ONLINE VOLUNTEER INFORMATION SESSION
Providing Fire Alarm Systems Industry Practitioners an Opportunity to Shape NICET Certification
Alexandria, VA - October 18, 2011 - NICET, the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies, is seeking Fire Alarm System (FAS) industry practitioners with FAS Level I Certification or higher to help write new exam items for the NICET FAS Certification program. These new items will assist with the maintenance of a robust item pool for NICET's largest certification program, thereby helping to ensure the exam quality and reliability.
NICET's proactive and reactive approach to exam maintenance involves understanding industry needs and changes. At present, the item development schedule to increase the size of the FAS Level I and II item pools consists of one in-person meeting event at the NICET Offices in Alexandria, VA, and multiple virtual meetings.
To learn more about how you can assist NICET maintain the quality of the FAS Certification program, register to attend a virtual information session!
NICET will host two virtual information sessions this month to provide further details regarding item development efforts (please note the time zones carefully):
Monday, October 24, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. PDT Register now!
Thursday, October 27, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. EDT Register now!
If you are unable to attend the information sessions, a recorded version of the sessions will be available on-demand.
Again, to learn more about this exciting opportunity, register for one of the two virtual information sessions listed above.
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About NICET
The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET), a division of the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), provides an independent and rigorous evaluation of knowledge and experience among individuals in the fields of engineering technology. Founded in 1961, NICET serves as a respected authority in many technical fields, and has certified more than 130,000 technicians and technologists. For more information, please visit www.nicet.org.
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New Bank of America Address
Effective July 14, NICET will use a new Bank of America address for testing and certification documents that require payment. Please note, recertification documents will continue to use the SunTrust bank address.
First-class mail using the U.S. Postal Services goes to:
NICET
c/o Bank of America
PO Box 418651
Boston, MA 02241-8651
With the new banking address we have the capability to accept expedited mail from service providers such as FedEx, UPS, DHL, etc.
Overnight Mailing goes to:
NICET
c/o Bank of America Lockbox Services
Lockbox 418651
MA5-527-02-07
2 Morrissey Blvd
Dorchester, MA 02125
If you have questions please feel free to contact NICET at 888-476-4238.
Date posted: 6/21/2011
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Changes to Exam Management
In an effort to provide a uniform and secure examination experience, NICET has recently made a few modifications to the way the paper-pencil exams in the work element programs are administered. All changes were recently discussed and approved by the NICET Board of Governors.
-Revision (March 4, 2011)
As you may well recall, several years ago NICET restricted examinees to bound reference books only, and then only to those on the NICET Approved Reference List. Since that time, many test proctors have
complained that there is simply not enough time to adequately review every reference book that each
examinee brings with them prior to the scheduled start of the testing session. This then results in either a
delayed start to testing, or in proctors allowing examinees to start testing without having their references checked. In the latter case, proctors then circulate among the examinees while they are testing to verify that only approved references are being used, possibly interrupting the examinee in the process. Not only is this distracting to the examinees, but it also causes frustration for those who then lose use of an unapproved reference part-way through the testing session. More egregious, however, it also has the unintended potential to give some candidates an unfair advantage during testing.
In response to your expressed concerns over these logistical difficulties, the NICET Board of Governors
agreed this past October to restrict the number of bound reference books that any examinee may use during a testing session. The agreed upon limit was set at five (5) bound references per test; and the scheduled
implementation date for this new restriction was set as January 1, 2011.
Problems with this restriction quickly began to surface-- with many candidates and employers complaining
that the number five was very "arbitrary" since many NICET programs list considerably more than five viable
references for the program (some with five or more per work element), and that any limitation of references
for open-book testing is unfair. Another problem also began to surface with the interpretation of these new
restrictions by test proctors -- in that some proctors were restricting examinees to five references per test
session, and not allowing the intended restriction to be applied more loosely to each separate test/package.
While the NICET Board still feels that some restrictions are warranted for logistical and security reasons, they
were also sympathetic to the expressed concerns. Therefore they have agreed to suspend implementation of this restriction until they can review it further -- and at least until July 1, 2011. This matter will be discussed at the next NICET Board meeting in April, with a final decision expected by May 1st.
Reference Material
Effective January 1, 2011, the format of references an examinee may bring into a paper-pencil exam is limited to bound references. Examinees may choose any references from the NICET approved list-including general references and personal notes. NICET highly recommends that all references are professionally bound. If references are not professional bound (i.e. typed personal notes, loose publications, etc.), they must be included in a binder no larger than three (3) inches and with clear delineation of the publication(s) included in the binder. A binder may contain more than one delineated section of personal typed notes and other miscellaneous loose publications. All personal notes must be typed, no hand-written notes will be allowed.
If your reference material does not appear on the approved reference list, and you would like it to be considered for addition to the approved reference list, please submit an e-mail to NICET with the following information:
Personal Belongings in the Exam Center
In order to protect the security of NICET examinations and the value of NICET certification, effective immediately examinees may take only the following to their seat: a calculator, the examination packet, instruction booklet, answer sheet, pencils, and approved reference materials. Therefore, it is highly advised to leave all personal belongings (i.e., purses, duffle bags, suitcases, pouches, back packs, crates, boxes, water bottle labels, hats, jackets, pockets, etc.) at home or locked in your vehicle. However, if you decide to bring personal belongings with you, please be advised your items are subject to inspection for items not permitted in the exam room. Once the items are inspected you will be instructed to leave them at the proctors station for the entire exam session which will include the lunch break. If an examinee refuses the inspection of his/her personal belongings, THE EXAMINEE WILL NOT RECEIVE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAM . Instead, the examinee will be informed to contact NICET the next business day. Again, if an examinee is uncomfortable with these restrictions, they have two options available to them, they may take the time to lock up the personal items within their vehicles or decide not to sit for the exam and possibly forfeit their exam fees.
Please note, if an exam room is a little chilly, examinees are allowed to take their coat to their seat; however, the coat must first be thoroughly checked and cleared. All water bottles will be thoroughly checked and cleared prior to admittance to the exam seat.
Please be advised this information will also appear in your confirmation notices. NICET appreciates your cooperation in implementing and improving exam security. If you have questions or concerns please feel free to contact NICET at 888-476-4238.
Date Posted: January 14, 2011
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Scoring for NICET Test Center Exams
NICET has completed the scoring process for the Work Element exams held on the following dates at the corresponding NICET Test Centers.
December 4: AR2, IA2, IL3, NC2, NJ70, PA2, and TN1
Register for online access to see your results or Login if you have already created an online account. A Pending status for certification means you have met the testing requirement. NICET will review your experience application and mail you a decision about your certification status within 90 days of your test date.
Date Posted: 12/22/2010
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Updates to Policy 20 and Policy 30
Recently during the October 2010 NICET Board of Governors meeting, the decision was made to modify two current policies: Policy 20 Retesting of Failed Exams and Policy 30 Continuing Professional Development.
Previously, Policy 20 stated candidates were only allowed to test three times within a two-year span and would have to participate in NICET-approved training prior to a fourth attempt. NICET elected to revise the policy for two major reasons: 1) NICET's mission is to certify engineering technicians and technologist and 2) the new Standard Model/CBT does not allow only one item to be tested. Therefore, Policy 20 now reads:
Failed tests can only be rescheduled for examination after a period of 4 months has elapsed. Retesting will be limited to four attempts in a two-year span to achieve a passing score.
The modifications to Policy 20 are effective immediately.
To clarify reactivation and reinstatement of an expired certification, modifications were made to Policy 30. The major change was to the following section:
- Reinstatement of an expired certification to Active Status more than three years after the expiration date requires the certificant to:
- Submit original documentation of ICET/NICET testing and/or certification to NICET for validation. (Documentation of former test results is required to reinstate certificants' testing records, thus allowing certificants to attain higher level(s) of certification without complete retesting. Documentation of former certification will likely be required to reinstate certification at the former level. Testing records will not be reinstated without proof of former certification.)
- Submit a complete work history write-up describing all positions, duties and responsibilities held throughout their career. Details must be provided for each specialty area being reinstated, with an appropriate time allocation break-out for all specialty areas.
- Successfully complete a special (certification maintenance) written examination for the highest level of certification attained (not the highest level previously passed).
- Acquire and provide documentation to support 90 CPD points for the most recent, past three years. (CPD points from the required special certification maintenance written examination cannot be used to satisfy this requirement.)
- If a candidate can not document all 90 CPD points from the most recent, past three-year period, the candidate will be allowed to sit for a second special (certification maintenance) written examination to accumulate an additional 60 CPD points.
- Pay an appropriate recertification processing fee(s), an experience re-evaluation fee, a special (certification maintenance) written examination fee, and a reinstatement fee.
The modified language of Policy 30 becomes effective January 1, 2011. For more information or questions please contact NICET.
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AFSA & NICET Webinar: The New and Improved Model
See Questions and Answers.
Date Posted: September 17, 2010
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Bank of America Address
It has come to our attention that the United States Postal Service (USPS) returned envelopes addressed to Bank of America. The envelopes were addressed correctly; however, there was a glitch on the USPS system that did not allow the envelopes to be delivered to the Bank of America address.
The problem began early last week, but has since been resolved. If you were one of the affected individuals please complete the following steps:
- Remove the yellow sticker on the envelop;
- Using a black pen, mark through the bar code on the envelop (the barcode can be on the front or back of the envelop); and
- Drop the item in the mail.
NICET will honor the original post mark date for any customer affected. We thank you for your patience and understanding. If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact NICET at 888-476-4238.
Date Posted: July 23, 2010
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NICET TO HOST COMPETING FOR FEDERAL GRANTS WORKSHOP
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: KeShonda Morris
Telephone: 888-476-4238
Website: www.nicet.org
NICET TO HOST COMPETING FOR FEDERAL GRANTS WORKSHOP
ALEXANDRIA, Virginia - June 18, 2010--On July 19-23, 2010, the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET), will host Competing for Federal Grants, a workshop developed to empower local nonprofit organizations and local government agencies to compete more effectively for federal funding.
As a service to the non-profit and association community, NICET is hosting this workshop. As a non-profit, NICET understands funding challenges, especially in tough economic times. However, with well-planned programs--like those offered by the Grantsmanship Center--NICET believes groups like ours will increase their ability to secure funding.
During the five-day workshop individuals will be equipped with the knowledge, skills and ability to:
Tuition for the five-day workshop is $1195 ($1095 with early registration). Registration for this location is limited to 24 individuals. For more information or to register, visit www.tgci.com or call the Grantsmanship Center directly at (800) 421-9512. For more information about the training site, contact KeShonda Morris at (888) 476-4238 extension 127 or kmorris@nicet.org.
The Grantsmanship Center, the leader in grant development training since 1972, has trained over 115,000 program planners, grant proposal writers, and decision-makers in nonprofit organizations, academia, and government agencies nationwide and abroad.
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The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET), a division of the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), provides an independent and rigorous evaluation of knowledge and experience among individuals in the fields of engineering technology. Founded in 1961, NICET serves as a respected authority in many technical fields, and has certified more than 129,000 technicians and technologists. For more information, please visit www.nicet.org.
Date Posted: June 18, 2010
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Scoring for NICET Test Center Exams
NICET has completed the scoring process for the Work Element exams held on the following dates at the corresponding NICET Test Centers.
September 11: AK4, AL1, CA11, IL3, KY1, MD6, NM1, PA4, PA5, TN1, TX2, TX3, and WA3.
Register for online access to see your results or Login if you have already created an online account. A Pending status for certification means you have met the testing requirement. NICET will review your experience application and mail you a decision about your certification status within 90 days of your test date.
Date Posted: 9/22/2010
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2010 NFPA Conference
Join Senior Director of Technical Services, Ahmed Farouki, and Manager of Marketing and Public Relations, Chip Hollis at the NFPA Conference & Expo at the Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas June 7-10, 2010. Visit NICETs booth, booth#244, in the exhibit hall to:
Bring your NICET certification card to get a NICET-certified lapel pin. Plus, enter to win a testing voucher for a free NICET exam.
Exposition: June 7 - 9
Pre-conference Seminars: June 5 - 7
The NFPA event is for professionals responsible for fire protection, life & electrical safety and includes:
Everything needed to design, maintain, and manage your building to world-class, safety and security standards.
Date Posted: 5/21/2010
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Level II Completed for Water-Based Fire Protection Systems Layout
On April 28-30, 2010, NICET held an item writing development workshop, during which a volunteer committee of subject matter experts completed writing the Water-Based Fire Protection Systems Layout Level II exam. The next workshop is scheduled for May 19-21, 2010.
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2010 ASCET Annual Conference and Tradeshow
American Society of Certified Engineering Technicians (ASCET) will hold the 46th Annual Meeting in Lexington, Kentucky on June 10-12, 2010.
All are invited to attend--technician, engineers, certified or not, ASCET member or not. Continuing Education is the KEY!
For more information please visit http://www.ascet.org/am10.php.
Date Posted: April 26, 2010
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New York State Chapter of APWA 2010 Annual Conference
The New York State Chapter of The America Public Works Association (APWA) will hold the 2010 Conference in Utica, New York on April 8-9, 2010.
For more information please visit http://newyork.apwa.net/.
Date Posted: April 2, 2010
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NICET Revamps the Online Store
In September 2009, NICET launched a new and improved online store. The revamped site offers new items and makes shopping for NICET merchandise easier than ever. Merchandise offered includes:
NICET Embroidered Polo Shirt,
NICET Embroidered T-Shirt,
Handy Micro-Tool,
Travel Tumbler,
NICET Embroidered Structured Hat,
To express your pride and support of NICET certification visit http://www.nicetestore.com.
Date Posted: December 8, 2009
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Water-Based Fire Protection Systems Layout Advances
A group of subject matter experts met November 5 and 6 at NICET headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia to begin review of Level II examination questions. Although this was the last program meeting for the year, SMEs are being recruited for a series of Internet conference review sessions throughout November and December to complete item approval activities for Levels I and II of the sprinkler program.
Item writing activities will commence in January for the Level III sprinkler program.
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Water-Based Fire Protection Systems Layout Forging Ahead to Level II
An Item Writing/Review session for the Water-Based Fire Protection Systems Layout (Sprinklers) examination was held on September 17 and 18 with 7 Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) in attendance. The two days focused on approving examination items that will be released in the upcoming Level I Beta test, and writing additional test questions to augment areas needing additional questions. The SMEs wrote 138 new test questions for targeted topic areas, and approved 57 items written in previous sessions. The next working session for the Sprinklers examinations will be held October 26-27, 2009 at NICET Headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia, and will concentrate on reviewing potential test questions for the Level II examination.
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NICET Finalizes Work on Level II Fire Alarm Systems
On September 28-29, 2009, NICET held a Fire Alarm Systems Item Writing Workshop. The committee meeting brought together 15 individuals, from across the country in different sectors of fire alarms, with the goal to review current questions and write additional questions for the Level II Fire Alarms Systems examination. The committee plans to hold a remote meeting to finalize the remaining questions so the beta examination can begin in November. The next workshop is schedule for October 15-16, 2009, at NICET, to continue working on the Level III Fire Alarm Systems.
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Fire Alarms Systems Updates Continue in 2009
The meeting held on January 29 -30, 2009 was a great success! NICET hosted 10 Fire Alarm Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to review previously written items and developed Level II and IV items for the upcoming BETA test. The next Fire Alarm Committee meeting will be held March 5-6, 2009 at NICET headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia with an agenda to continue reviewing items.
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Fire Alarms Systems: Program Update
On December 11-12, 2008, nine Fire Alarm Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), from around the country, assembled at NICET headquarters to continue writing and reviewing test items for the upcoming standardized exams. The fire alarms committee will reconvene on January 29-30, 2009.
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2009 Test Dates and Centers
With a new year comes a slight change. NICET recently modified the manner in which you search for test centers and exam dates.
In previous years NICET provided test proctors only three dates per cycle to choose from. However, this year test proctors are given the option of choosing any [weekend] date during the testing cycle. This allows for more testing flexibility.
In addition, NICET has done away with the postmark deadline chart that listed the postmark deadline for popular testing dates. In an effort to reduce postmark deadline confusion, the postmark deadline is now listed below the exam date in the test center listing. All postmark deadlines are 7 weeks prior to the exam date.
While we strive to produce a completed 2009 chart of test dates, please note that we are still receiving test dates. Therefore, if a precise date is not indicated in the chart please indicate the cycle number and leave the date blank. For example, if you wish to test at test center code VA2 on your application enter cycle number 1 in the exam date field. NICET recommends using the earliest postmark listed for the cycle in order to meet the application deadline. Remember, seats at test centers are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you have questions please contact NICET at 888-476-4238 or test@nicet.org.
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Water-Based Fire Protection Systems Layout: Program Update
On Thursday, November 13 and Friday, November 14, an item writing session will be held with SMEs for the Water-Based Fire Protection Systems Layout (currently Automatic Sprinkler Systems Layout). The meeting will take place in High Point, North Carolina and is expected to have 10 SMEs in attendance.
The meeting will be hosted by NICET, in conjunction with the AFSA Carolinas Chapter (Joe Harrison) and Sunland Fire Protection, Inc (Carl Jackson).
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Construction Material Testing: Program Update
On July 1-2, 2008, NICET conducted a CMT Committee Meeting to review the results of the Job Task Analysis" survey in order to establish the test specifications for both Soils Laboratory and Aggregates levels I and II exams. In the process the committee determined the best available method for testing knowledge, skills, and abilities.
The committee members who participated in the test design phase include:
David Belser, Texas DOT
Kenny Johnson, Soil Consultants
Mohammad Khan, PSI
Bob Kochen, MSHA
George Perdue, Iowa DOT
Richard Scott, Terracon
By the conclusion of the meeting, the committee drafted test specifications and determined the best method for test delivery during the committee meeting. The test specification establishes guidelines for creating test questions for future item writing workshops.
In the near future NICET will hold additional committee meetings in order to continue the progress made in the scheduled update of the Construction Materials Testing exams.
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NICET Phone System Upgrade
Beginning July 17, 2008 at 5:00 pm eastern, work will begin to upgrade NICETs phone system. The new system will have additional features and handle increased call volume. We hope to have all systems installed and fully functional by noon on Monday, July 21. During this time there may be periodic interruptions in NICET phone service, data networks, and email. There is one scheduled outage for 4:00 pm through midnight Friday, July 18. Please plan any inquiries accordingly.
Our goal for this new system is being able to provide even better service to our customers in the future. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience during this time.
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Subscription Changes to NICET News
NICET recently added a new subscription process that gives you access to important NICET communications and self-service capability to change your interest preferences or unsubscribe. Please use the, Get NICET News, form above to verify your subscription interests. You will need to use the form even if you have been notified in the past; the previous method of notification will be discontinued. Make sure to add NICET News as one of your interests to receive updates to this page.
One of the new options is News from NICET. The informative, official, NICET newsletter will be released on a quarterly basis with specialty supplemental issues released in the between months. Check out the first issue, which includes articles discussing the changes to materials allowed in NICET testing centers, hints for taking multiple choice examinations, and more.
The goal of News from NICET is to provide informative articles for anyone who is NICET certified, interested in becoming NICET certified, or concerned with hiring or requiring a qualified workforce of engineering technicians and technologists. In addition to administrative items from NICET; there will be pieces on career development, test taking tips, technician profiles, and who uses NICET to name a few.
If you did not receive an issue in March, News from NICET will be archived and always available online. Please subscribe.
Important: The news list is maintained separately from your NICET certification and testing record. Make changes to your certification and testing contact information by calling 888-476-4238.
As always, we want to hear from you. Please let us know what you like or dont like; how to make the NICET News better, or even submit an article idea. Please forward suggestions and comments to newsletter@nicet.org.
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Time Allotted for Test Taking Separated by Subfield
Previously NICET applicants were allowed to select up to 34 work elements from any subfield for a single examination. Due possibly to increased demand for NICET certification as a condition of employment, applicants in recent years have been more tempted to add work elements outside their chosen field purely for additional testing time. The contents and time allotments for NICET test questions are predetermined to be fair and reasonable by a panel of industry experts and are then beta tested to verify that determination. Applicants are expected to be able to answer the questions in the time allotted. Therefore, the assigned time allotments must be upheld to provide a fair and valid test result.
Please note, NICET will allow candidates to continue selecting up to 34 work elements for any given day of testing. However, NICET will now separate work elements from different specialty areas, up to three, into separate and distinct examinations. Candidates will receive the appropriate number of confirmation notices based on the work element and specialty areas being testing. Each confirmation notice will indicate the total number of minutes allowed for each test. In addition, individual examination packets will be distributed, at the testing center, for each specialty area being tested. Only after the first examination is complete will the second examination packet be released. This process will continue until the last examination is completed.
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Survey: Construction Materials Testing Soils Field Level II
Take part in the practice analysis for the new NICET Soils Field Testing & Inspection Technician Certification Program. If you are a qualified practitioner, please complete validation survey for Soils Field Testing & Inspection Level II.
Soils Field Level II Survey
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IMPORTANT CHANGES TO TESTING PROCEDURES
NICET recently learned that one of its examinations might have been compromised by a published study guide. Please read the Official Memo regarding changes to testing procedures from NICET COE, Mike Clark.
The contents of the memo are provided below for your convenience.
NICET recently learned that one of its examinations might have been compromised by a published
study guide. Please note that all of the Institutes test questions are registered with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office as copyrighted materials owned by the National Society of Professional Engineers.
Unauthorized use of NSPE/NICET copyright protected material by any entity, individual, company or
group other than NSPE or NICET is strictly prohibited under U.S. Federal Law, and will be subject to
legal prosecution.
While NICET paper & pencil tests will continue to be offered in an open book format, effective
immediately, NICET will restrict the reference materials allowed into any testing session to only those
listed within the Referenced Standards and/or Selected General References pages in the back of each
program detail manual. Until further notice, NICET testing candidates will not be allowed to use any
interpretive materials (i.e., training guides, study manuals, review manuals, personal notes, etc.) bound
or unbound -- during their examination.
If you are in doubt about the acceptability of any reference - contact NICET before testing begins. Any
banned reference should be left outside the testing room altogether or it will be held at the Proctors table
during the examination. If a referenced document is banned from the testing session, you will be given
the opportunity to challenge the affected work element(s) prior to the examination process. The
Challenge must list the title of the banned reference, the author, edition and copyright date, and then
provide a detailed explanation of its relevance to the test. If a challenged reference is found to be
acceptable, NICET will contact you to schedule testing of the affected element(s) -- at no additional fee It
is highly recommended, however, that you complete as much of your scheduled examination as possible
without the banned reference to avoid rescheduling delays and difficulties. You may also elect to
reschedule your entire exam prior to testing, but a rescheduling fee may be required if, you do not submit
a Challenge at your scheduled time of testing, and if your Challenge is not accepted.
This revised NICET testing policy may be altered further in the near future as more information is
uncovered about the alleged test question compromise and/or additional references are added to the list
of Acceptable References. If you have any questions or concerns about this change in the meantime,
please feel free to contact NICET at 1-888-476-4238 or test@nicet.org.
We truly appreciate your assistance and cooperation with this sensitive matter.
Michael A. Clark, CAE
Chief Operating Executive
Please read before testing-
Taking a NICET Exam
Allowable References
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Survey: Construction Materials Testing (CMT)
NICET just released a national survey to validate the content of the Soils Laboratory Testing certification program to confirm the requirements for competent practice in this specialty area. The results of the survey will also be used to define the content of the exam for the various levels of the subject subfield.
Upon completion, a statistical report on the ratings of the program content will be prepared and transmitted to the Soils development committee for final review.
NICET expects to complete the subject matter expert (SME) review of the survey data by December of 2007. Following the final review of the survey data, NICET will begin to establish multiple SME groups for test item writing based on the results of the September survey.
Subsequently, test item writing is proposed to take place on a continuous basis beginning in February of 2008 until the beta exam for the program is complete.
A committee of experts has outlined each level of certification (I, II, III and IV). NICET and subject matter experts will use the results of the survey to develop a revised, computer based certification exam.
It is important that all those who are interested in certification provide input to the survey.
Results of the survey will be used to outline the examination content and to direct the number of questions being asked in each area.
The survey is arranged hierarchically; that is Level I content is not tested at Level II, and Level III content is not the same as Levels I or II. NICET presumes that a person who seeks Level IV certification will already have been tested at Levels I, II and III and will not be re-tested on the same content. Therefore, NICET asks that you take a few minutes to provide input to all levels for which you are qualified.
Thank you. NICET appreciates this opportunity to develop certification programs that are highly relevant to you, the practitioner.
If you are interested and you think you are qualified, please complete the surveys listed below.
Soils Laboratory level I survey
Soils Laboratory level II survey
Soils Laboratory level III survey
Soils Laboratory level IV survey
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Status of Application Evaluations as of March 1, 2008
NICET has completed evaluations for all examinees who met an exam requirement through December and all pending-status applicants who replied through February 20 to a Conditional Decision Letter. If you fit into either of these categories, and you have not heard from NICET by February 15, then please call us at 888-476-4238.
The Institute is currently evaluating applicants who tested in January or replied after Febraur 20 to a Conditional Decision Letter. Please allow up to 90 days after the test date for notification of your certification status; allow up to 60 days when awaiting results of a Conditional Decision Letter response. You may hear from us sooner, though, as NICET continually strives to shorten evaluation time and exceed customers' expectations. Please check this page in the next few weeks for an update.
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2006 Salary Survey
The results of NICET and ASCET's joint 2006 Salary Survey can be found here.
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Board of Governors Increases Examination Fees, Recertification Fees
To continue to provide our customers with quality certification programs and efficient customer service, NICETs Board of Governors has reluctantly increased the Examination Fee by ten dollars. The new fee applies to all exams that will be administered on or after January 1, 2008. The Board also slightly increased the Exam Rescheduling fee, the Base Recertification fee, and the Retired Status fee. Visit the Fee Schedule.
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Veterans' NICET Exam Fees are Eligible for Reimbursement
Select veterans who take NICET Work Element exams are now eligible for test fee reimbursement by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The reimbursement is available to qualified examinees who tested on or after January 11, 2005. Education benefits cover the cost of the exam whether the applicant passes or fails. Applicants can request reimbursement for multiple exams. For qualifications and procedures, please visit www.gibill.va.gov/pamphlets/LC_brochure.pdf, or call 1-888-GIBILL (1-888-442-4551).
The VA initiated its benefits program to help military personnel transition into civilian occupations. NICET was approved by the Department of Veterans Services, State Approving Agency in Richmond, VA, for the program under the provisions of Section 122 of Public Law 106-419 that extends the coverage of the G.I. Bill.
Read the full press release...
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Showcase Your Achievement
Did you know that a NICET-logo mat and frame are available for displaying your certificate? Order your certificate frame today!
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Highway System Maintenance and Preservation replaces Highway Maintenance
Effective July 1, 2007, the Highway System Maintenance and Preservation program (Transportation subfield 14) replaces Highway Maintenance (Transportation subfield 09). Highway Maintenance is now closed to first-time Maintenance examinees; these candidates must test in the Highway System Maintenance and Preservation program.
Individuals who previously tested in Highway Maintenance and want to upgrade their certification will have a one-year grace period to complete their Highway Maintenance exam requirement; after July 1, 2008, these candidates must comply with the requirements in the Highway System Maintenance and Preservation program detail manual. Individuals who are currently certified in Highway Maintenance and do not wish to upgrade their certification will be unaffected by the change; these individuals can keep their Highway Maintenance certification in Active Status by recertifying every three years in compliance with NICET Policy #30.
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New Fax Number for Conditional Decision Letter Responses
Conditional Decision Letter responses may now be faxed to NICET at 703.519.9050 (Attn: CDL Response). On your fax cover sheet, please explain the reason for your fax submittal. Please keep the original documents in your records; NICET retains the right to request the original, signed documents at any time.
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Over 20,000 Certifications in NICET Fire Protection
NICET salutes the Fire Protection industry for its dedication to safety and surpassing 20,000 certifications in February 2007.
View the Press Release.
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Three New Video Security Systems Exams Now Open for Certification Testing
NICET recently released three exams in the Video Security Systems suite. Click here to view the press release. For more information about the Video programs, please click here.
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New Job/Task Analysis Underway for Sprinkler Program
NICET announces that, with the help of its industry partner, the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) and other experts from the Fire Protection Industry, it is creating a new job/task analysis for the Automatic Sprinkler System Layout certification program. This new practice outline will form the basis for revision of the program. A survey based on this analysis will be sent to those in the fire protection systems practice area early in 2007. The first meeting to develop this new survey was held on October 16-17 at NICET headquarters. For the full press release, click here.
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NICET Issues Statement about Sprinkler Layout Levels and Responsibilities
In a November 1 statement, NICET publicly affirmed its official position that individuals holding a NICET Level III and/or a NICET Level IV certification in Automatic Sprinkler System Layout have the qualifications to independently prepare layout drawings on behalf of fire sprinkler contractors. It is NICETs position also that design professionals (i.e., licensed professional engineers and registered architects) should provide complete design criteria and detailed design documents (e.g., drawings, hydraulic calculations, water supply information, etc.) to fire sprinkler contractors for preparation of layout drawings; and that the same design professional should review the completed layout drawings to ensure that the original design has not been altered. This position is consistent with that of the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) and the Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE). Therefore, this position will also be conveyed to state fire marshals in the future.
For the full statement, please click here.
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If you're applying for a NICET exam, check your e-mail regularly!
To speed up communications with its customers, NICET is now using e-mail instead of post mail when we must notify exam applicants about the following situations:
- problems with work element selection
- incorrect exam fee payment
- problems with Statement of Understanding signatures
- proctor alert notices
(If we don't have an e-mail address on file for you, then these types of notices will be delivered via USPS.)
Exam scheduling confirmation notices are also delivered via e-mail. (Sometimes these notices get marked as spam; so check your bulk mail folder, too.)
If youd like to update your e-mail address, please write cert@nicet.org and provide your full name (and NICET Technician Certification number if available).
Score reports, certification documents, and conditional decision letters will continue to be delivered via post mail.
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If mailing an application overnight, you MUST use USPS.
If you wish to use overnight/express service when mailing your NICET application to Bank of America, then you must use the United States Postal Service (USPS). To quickly process your payment and get your paperwork to NICET, Bank of America must receive your application through the designated post office box (named in the mailing address provided on your NICET application). And only the USPS delivers overnight/express mail to post office boxes.
From now on, Bank of America will refuse any overnight delivery (UPS, Federal Express, etc.) other than USPS and return the package to sender. The resulting delay may result in your missing the application postmark deadline.
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OSHA Standards referenced in NICET Program Detail Manuals
The following OSHA standards are relevant to all NICET Certification programs:
OSHA Part 1910, Occupational Safety and Health Standards
OSHA Part 1926, Safety and Health Regulations for Construction
These publication titles are intended to replace all OSHA references found in the work element descriptions and "Selected General References" in all NICET Program Detail Manuals.
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