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NICET debuts video certification program

NICET debuts video certification program

ALEXANDRIA, Va. --The daily routine of a video security system technician might be installing camera mounts and maintaining safe low voltage electrical practices. But beginning in April, after a period of beta testing, members of this sector can take their surveillance installation trade knowledge to an exam for certification offered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies. The program is a culmination of three years of work after the Security Industry Association suggested the idea to NICET, an independent organization that has put together certification in the engineering and electronics field for years. SIA heard complaints from manufacturers about poor camera installation work and the need for a program that recognizes installer's or integrator's capabilities. The first of the four level certifications from NICET is available and accepting applications. The testing is held at more than 300 locations throughout the United States. The level one exam requires technicians to have three months of work experience in the trade. The computer-based test is multiple-choice. The test program is based on what the technician should know, which is determined by how many months and years he has been in the industry. Fees for each of the six exams in the video security systems group will be $180 per exam, which also includes evaluation of work experience, said Brian Gifford, manager of certification development at NICET. According to Gifford, the video security systems technician level two examination began beta testing in April. After that, the level two exam is scheduled to launch nationwide in July. The additional levels of technician certification and the two levels of designer certification will finish pilot testing and launch later this year and in 2006. The certification can be used as a marketing tool for companies, but also show that this is a qualified, professional industry, added Gifford. "The best people in this business are there to provide not just security equipment, but security," he said.

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