WEATHERFORD, TX – The Coordinate Metrology Society (CMS) plans to launch two new certification programs in 2018.

The CMS Certification Committee will offer a pilot examination for the industry's first Level-One Certification for coordinate measuring machines (CMM) operators. The proctored, online assessment consists of about 200 multiple choice questions covering foundational theory and CMM common practices. The CMM community is invited to take the pilot exam at no cost during the Coordinate Metrology Society Conference (CMSC) in Reno, NV from July 23-27.

To participate, candidates must register online at cmscevents.org/2018_CMM_pilot.html.

The Coordinate Metrology Society will also offer a pilot assessment for a new CMS Level-Two Certification program for 3D scanner users during their upcoming conference. The 3D scanner community is invited to take the pilot exam at no cost during CMSC 2018. The hands-on, device specific assessment will be conducted by CMS-authorized proctors. Applicants for CMS Level-Two Certifications must register online at cmscevents.org/2018_3dLaserScannerPilot.html. First come, first served. Early registration is encouraged.

“Industry demand is driving our efforts behind these two new Certifications designed to recognize critical knowledge and skill sets needed in manufacturing and scientific research," states Randy Gruver, chair of the CMS Certification Committee. “We are pleased to expand our traditional membership of portable metrology users to include CMM professionals, a community that has lacked the opportunity to gain credentials for their specialized expertise in measurement and inspection. The pilot testing phase is an important step in the development of the CMS Level-One Certification for CMMs and the CMS Level-Two Certification for 3D Scanners. Users are encouraged to take the pilot exams to prepare for the official assessments to be rolled out later in the year."

The organization offers a comprehensive, two-tiered certification program for metrologists to reach their professional development goals. The portfolio includes a Level-One Certification for 3D portable metrology users that covers foundational theory and best practices. Level-Two Certifications recognize specialized hands-on knowledge used to perform tasks with specific measurement devices. The CMS Level-Two Certification examinations are conducted by CMS-authorized proctors for articulating arm and laser tracker users. All candidates must complete the application process and qualify to take the assessments. 

Level-One Certification applicants must meet eligibility requirements, sign the CMS code of ethics, and pass a peer review. CMS Level-Two Certification applicants must have a Level-One Certification, two years experience (minimum 400 hours) on an articulating arm or laser tracker, and submit an application with two references who can attest to their hands-on expertise. The CMS Certification Handbook with guidelines and application forms are available online at the CMS website at cmsc.org/cms-certification. For more information, contact the CMS Certification Committee at [email protected].