The NICET testing program is an excellent, independent process to evaluate the professionalism of our employees. The NICET program validates our own training program. The NICET designation acknowledges that the individual has attained a higher level of specialized knowledge in a nationally recognized program. In our business, our customers are looking to us as the experts in our field. NICET helps our staff to continually strive to meet customer expectations. Gaining higher levels of NICET specialization is an individual achievement, but ultimately serves to make the organization stronger as a whole.

NICET allows us to measure new hires' capabilities. We can use the [Stormwater and Wastewater System Inspection] program to assess our technicians' training needs and measure their comprehension of our upcoming training program. They are enthusiastic about achieving a higher level and it has even become competitive in some cases. Overall, the program provides motivation and a measure of success for personnel.

Jim Wathen, PE
NICET Coordinator for the Five Cities Plus Regional Group

Plans submitted to the building department by architect or engineers were required to have an architect or engineer's stamp, but contractors' shop drawings for fire alarm systems were not. Since these systems are an important part of the overall process for building construction for fire and life safety, [Nevada fire marshals] felt there should be some type of nationally recognized certification required for these designers, and NICET had an applicable program with which we were familiar. We also use NICET in our own job descriptions within the city of Henderson for our fire plans examiners.

Pennsylvania has one of the largest populations of NICET certified inspectors in the Highway Construction and Highway Materials fields. PennDOT recognizes the NICET program as a leader in assuring the competency of individuals certified in these areas, and we're confident that those who acquire and maintain these credentials provide a quality service to our highway construction program.

We have used NICET Level III and IV certification [in automatic sprinkler system layout] since 1981 for licensing of our sprinkler contractors. In 1996, Georgia expanded its codes to cover the design, inspection and maintenance of sprinkler systems. We discussed our needs with NICET, which was developing a certification program in Inspection and Testing of Water-Based Systems. Being a national certification organization, they had the resources and ability to put together a test that met our needs and the industries' acceptance. NICET also has CEU requirements we feel are necessary to maintain current knowledge of these systems.

Another area that we have utilized the NICET test is for our licensing of installers of Special Hazard Systems. The State of Georgia requires successful completion of the Special Hazards Suppression Systems test before a license may be issued unless specific manufacturer certification is obtained by each service technician.