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This page is primarily for you students of Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology and Electronic and Telecommunications Technology at ACC. However, anyone interested in learning more about these fields and related topics of interest are welcome to use it.
There are many topics that we do not teach in class and many others that never seem to be discussed. Yet I get many questions from students about special interests and needs. Most of my answers and advice may also be of interest to you. Most of this information is related to jobs, careers, and personal success as opposed to being technical in nature. I have tried to sum up this information and present it so that it can be useful to you.
My overall goal is to provide you with information that will help make you a success in Electronics or Semiconductor Manufacturing.
Take a minute to scan through the contents above to see if anything is of interest. And keep in mind that I will regularly add to and update this information during the year.
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My full name is Louis E. Frenzel. I am a Professor and Program Coordinator for Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology at ACC. I joined ACC in November, 1995 and helped to build the SMT program, design the curriculum with the assistance of industry, and developed several of the new courses that were defined for this program. In addition to my regular teaching assignments, I am a principle investigator on a NSF grant to develop multimedia learning modules in SMT jointly with five other colleges and universities. I am also developing a Web-based version of the Semiconductor Industry Overview course which I hope to have on-line for the Fall, 1999 semester.
My work background includes over 30 years of general business and industry experience. Prior to coming to ACC, I taught for four years as an adjunct faculty member in the Electronic Technology department at Broward Community College in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. I also ran my own technical publishing company Teknowledgy Sources Inc. creating training materials in electronic and computer related subjects for 13 years. While I was in Florida, I was president of Technovate, Inc., a manufacturer of engineering lab equipment for colleges. Prior to that, I held the position of Sr. Vice President at McGraw Hill where I managed distance learning programs and the development of high tech textbooks and learning materials. I was also Vice President of Longman Crown where I managed the development of technical continuing education materials. Further, I was also a Vice President of Heath Company (Division of Zenith) where I started and ran Heathkit's personal computer and education/publishing businesses. Early in my career I worked for several years in various engineering jobs in the aerospace and geophysical industries in the Houston area.
As for education, I hold an AAS degree in Electronic Engineering Technology from Capitol College (Washington, D.C. area), a BAS degree in Electronic Technology from the University of Houston, and a MEd degree in Technical Education from the University of Maryland. I am the author of 16 textbooks and trade books on electronic and computer subjects including a soon to be published book on Semiconductor Manufacturing by Prentice Hall. My most recently published books are Crash Course in PCs and Microcontrollers (Newnes/BH) and Principles of Electronic Communications Systems (Glencoe/MH).
With regard to my personal background, I was born in Galveston, Texas. My wife and I just moved back to Texas in 1995 after being away for 35 years. We have four kids all of whom are grown and working (yea!). We have 4 grand kids. My wife is Executive Secretary to the General Manager of the Hyatt Regency. We listen to country music, read the best seller list, eat out more than we can afford, and try to get as much beach time as we can.
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Listed in this section are numerous articles that might contain information of use to you. Take a look at the topics listed earlier and sample any of them that sound relevant. Feel free to print yourself a copy. Just remember that they are copyrighted.
Louis E. Frenzel Jr.
Copyright, 1999
One of the most common questions asked by students in Electronics and Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology degree programs is: Can I transfer all my ACC credits to the University of Texas (or some other four-year engineering school) and continue working toward a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) degree? The answer, of course, is NO. That surprises most if not all of you. The explanation for this is simply that ACC's Associate degree programs are technology programs while UT's BSEE program is an engineering program. There is a big difference. Let me explain.
There are two educational paths you can follow in most technical fields, Engineering and Technology. The Engineering path leads you to a 4-year university offering a BSEE degree. When you graduate, you get a job as an engineer. The Technology path leads you toward a community college and an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. You then go on to a job as a technician.
Optionally, and this is the confusing part, you can also go to some 4-year universities and get a Bachelor of Science in Technology degree. There are different names for this degree and it depends upon the offering university. Some other common names are Bachelor of Technology, Bachelor of Science in Electronic Technology, Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, or Bachelor of Industrial Technology. When you complete a bachelor's degree in technology, your work may be that of an high level technician, a technologist, or a manufacturing specialist. In some cases, companies will hire you for engineering jobs if you have a bachelor of technology degree.
Most universities offering bachelor of technology degrees will also accept transfers from those who have AAS degrees. Then, in about two more years, you can get the bachelor of technology degree. It keeps you from having to start all over again.
Let's assume that you have just received your AAS degree. You have decided that what you really want to do is be an engineer. If you are positive you want to get the BSEE degree, you will literally have to start all over again at UT or the university of your choice. You will get credit for College Algebra and English Composition, and any nontechnical electives, but that is about it.
The major differences between an engineering and a technology education is easily explained by defining or observing the work that engineers and technicians do. But the jobs that engineers and techs do are vastly different.
Engineers. The primary duties of an engineer are design and analysis. Engineers design electronic circuits, equipment and systems. In most cases, they create the new piece of hardware from scratch on paper and by computer. In doing this, they perform a great deal of math. Most design involves circuit analysis or mathematical modeling and simulation where real-world components, circuits or systems are created on a computer by writing the mathematical equations that describe their operation. The computer then executes the equations to see if the circuit works as designed. If not, it's back to the drawing board for the engineer to do more analysis and simulation until it works.
Engineering is for the most part math. Algebra and trig are assumed, but as an engineer you will also use calculus, linear equations, statistics, and many other forms of advanced math. That is why engineering degree programs involve so much math. You cannot do much engineering without what amounts to at least a heavy minor in math. Most of the math and simulation is handled on a computer, a big fast PC or an engineering workstation. What engineers do is sit in front of a computer all day and design and analyze what they are creating.
At some point, the engineer will have to convert the design into real hardware. He or she may do that themselves, but chances are the actual hardware prototype will be built and evaluated by a technician.
Engineers also draw upon their science backgrounds and upon engineering disciplines other than their specialty. For example, an electronic engineer may use his or her knowledge of thermodynamics to solve a cooling problem with a microprocessor or some other electronic part that gets hot. Or the engineer may draw upon his or her knowledge of physics to deal with the light and optics problems related to LEDs, lasers, or photolithography. All electronic engineers get a heavy dose of physics, chemistry and mechanical engineering subjects.
Technicians. There are several different types of technicians. There are engineering technicians who work with engineers during the design process. They build and test prototypes, layout printed circuit boards, work on the manufacturing aspects of the product or figure out a test procedure. They may even do some minor design if they are capable.
Most technicians, however, are what could best be described as maintenance or service people. What most technicians do is install, operate, troubleshoot, maintain, and service electronic equipment or systems. This involves testing and measurements. Such techs may work on a production line testing and fixing new products or work in a repair facility. Some maintenance techs are field service people who go to a customer's site to repair the equipment.
Another place techs find work is a manufacturing plant. They will actually do a part of the production work by building or testing all or part of a system. A tech may actually work out the manufacturing sequence and procedure and set up the automated machines that produce the product.
Technologists. A technologist is a person who holds a bachelor of technology degree. That person knows considerably more than a technician and nearly as much about design as an engineer. Most bachelor of technology graduates actually get hired as engineers. Many also go into manufacturing or marketing.
You will never actually see jobs ads for technologists. If you should have a bachelor of technology degree, you should always apply for engineering jobs that interest you. Chances are you will get the job.
If you are already working on an AAS degree or have an AAS degree, by all means it makes sense to consider the bachelor of technology degree approach. It will save you many additional years of college and all of the related expenses. In just a little over two years (full time), you can add the necessary courses to your AAS degree to get the bachelor of technology degree. And chances are you will end up in the same engineering job you would get if you started all over in an engineering degree program.
The bottom line is, don't waste your community college work. In a few more years after your AAS degree you can have a bachelors degree and the better job that usually goes along with it.
There are at least five colleges in Texas that offer bachelor of technology degree programs and accept transfers from ACC. If you would like to know more about these schools, go to my other article on the web site that lists these schools and how to get in touch with them.
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Louis E. Frenzel
Copyright, 1999
The fastest way to get a bachelor's degree after you finish your AAS degree here at ACC is to transfer to a college or university that offers a bachelor's degree in technology. There are several such schools here in Texas and many more throughout the US. Listed below are the Texas schools. Contact them directly for more information. I have listed the Web address if it is available and clicking on that address will whisk you away to that site where you can get more information.
Just one important note about this. ACC has a formal articulation agreement with two of the schools on this list. What that means is the these colleges have evaluated ACC's electronics/semiconductor manufacturing programs and found them to be fully satisfactory for transfer to the bachelor of technology program. In other words, they accept your credits without hassle or further evaluation.
The other schools will usually give you transfer credit, but all of it is subject to analysis and evaluation.
DeVry Institute of Technology (Dallas)
Southwest Texas State University*
St. Edward's University* (Austin)
Texas Tech University (Lubbock)
Texas A&M University (College Station)
University of Houston - College of Technology
University of North Texas (Denton)
* Full articulation agreement with ACC.
Arizona State University (Tempe)
Capitol College (Laurel, Maryland, outside Wash. D.C.)
Central Florida University (Orlando)
Oregon Institute of Technology (Klamath Falls)
Pennsylvania State University
Purdue University (West Lafayette, Indiana)
There are quite a few others. If you want an almost complete list, go to the Web-site for the Accrediting Board for Engineering and Technology (http://www.abet.org)
Many of you are also thinking beyond the bachelor's degree. That's good. You may just want to go to work after you graduate with the AAS degree, but I can tell you that in a year or so you will be wondering about the bachelors degree and even a masters or a Ph.D.. If you want a technical Ph.D., then you should go the engineering route and start all over at a university offering engineering degrees.
If you want a masters degree, you can get one after your bachelor of technology degree. For example, there is actually such a thing as a masters in technology degree. There are currently very few schools offering such a degree, but they do exist. Some examples are Southwest Texas State University, University of Houston, University of North Texas, Arizona State University and Purdue University.
Don't forget you can also go directly to a MBA from a bachelors of technology degree. Many schools will also grant you a Masters in Education if you wish to teach technology.
Whatever you choose, good luck. And contact me directly if you have any questions.
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Louis E. Frenzel
Copyright, 1999
Many of you have asked me or other members of the faculty or staff about the pros and cons of getting the AAS degree or the Certificate in SMT. There is quite a bit of confusion over this, so let me clear it up.
The primary credential of the SMT program is the AAS degree. What most employers want you to have before they hire you is the degree. All of the members of our industry advisory committee indicate that the AAS degree is the best path. Your best chance for a job is the degree.
Having said that, I suspect that you are probably wondering why we even have a Certificate program and what its value is. Well, first, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB), the organization that regulates ACC says that we must offer a Certificate program based upon the same field, but shorter. That is the main reason we have it.
The second reason is that some of the local companies feel that a Certificate is useful for some entry level positions. The Certificate program was structured to prepare a person to work as a fab operator, the person who operates the equipment in the clean room to actually make the chips. Some companies like Motorola and Samsung have lower entry level positions that do not require a high level of knowledge and education. In some cases, a high school diploma is all that you need. The ACC Certificate is over kill for these positions, but having one is almost a guarantee that you will get in. The pay is in the $7 to $9/hour range but usually includes overtime and a shift differential. What you really want is the degree which gets you jobs paying better than double that to start.
A few companies have hired Certificate graduates in place of degree graduates simply because they need the employees now and they can provide the additional training to allow you to do the job. AMD has done this in the past. If they do hire you as a Certificate graduate, they usually encourage you to go back to school part time and finish the AAS degree. Without the degree you will always be held back from promotions and the better jobs. Most companies will pay your tuition to finish the degree.
Go for the degree. Concentrate on getting the degree no matter what. It is your best bet no matter what company you go to work for. It will produce a greater starting salary and provide the best qualifications for promotion.
Since the Certificate is simply the first half of the degree program, there is some temptation to get the Certificate quickly then try to find work. If you really need the work, then the Certificate may get you employed, but typically in a lower level and lower paying position, but it is work. It has been our experience here that very few students actually get a job with the Certificate alone. Just keep this in mind: When you get the Certificate, you are not finished. You only know about one half of what you really need to know and what the employers really want you to know. Try to stay in school and finish the degree any way you can.
We cannot guarantee any of you a job, even with the degree. Granting jobs is the right and privilege of the hiring companies only. And I strongly discourage you from concentrating on the Certificate only. Focus on getting the degree. But when you have taken all of the courses required for the Certificate, then go ahead and apply for it. The Certificate makes a nice milestone that tells you that you have completed better than half of the work toward the degree. Let the Certificate represent a reward for your hard work. It represents accomplishment. Hang it on your wall and let it be your inspiration and motivation to go on and finish the degree.
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Louis E. Frenzel
Copyright, 1999
Some of you students have asked me what you should do if you cannot find a job to your liking after you graduate. My answer, which has horrified some of you, is simply to go somewhere else. Yes, I am actually advocating, even strongly recommending, that you relocate to another city if you cannot find the best job for yourself here in Austin. If fact, sometimes it is the best way to advance your career.
The chances that you will land a good job in Austin after you graduate are actually excellent. There are many good local companies waiting for SMT graduates. Almost all SMT graduates (99 to date) have gotten excellent jobs locally. Even during downturns in the industry, we have placed virtually all of our graduates. That speaks well of the semiconductor industry in Austin. They want to hire you. They need you. And they pay well. Your responsibility is to accept the positions available and to do them the best you can.
But what if you don't find what you want? Or even worse, what if you actually do not get hired for whatever reason? Then what? I say look elsewhere. If you really want to work in the semiconductor industry, there are many other opportunities across the country. The major concentrations of semiconductor companies are in:
In any case, there are lots of good places to go for semiconductor jobs. And I hope that you will all be open minded enough to consider them. You will if you are really serious about your career and especially advancement.
Our job at ACC is to serve the community, namely you and the local companies seeking employees. We hope you will go to work for one of the locals companies. That helps you and them. I bet over 90% of you will end up in a local company. But don't get discouraged or give up if you do not get hired here or cannot find a job that fits you. And don't abandon the semiconductor field. Give some thought to jobs in areas outside Austin.
Everyone here thinks Austin is the best place in the world. I have to admit that Austin is a pretty neat place to live. I have only been here a bit over three years and I have grown to like it as much as anyone else. But let me tell you, I have lived in several other cities that I like better than Austin. Maybe you have too. And I am not the only one who thinks that.
If you have never lived anywhere else but Austin, you have some surprises coming. And how can you say that Austin is the best if you have never lived anywhere else? Maybe you lived in LA or Cleveland or Fargo, North Dakota so I can understand why you think Austin is so great. But there are places that others find far more attractive than Austin. I lived in San Antonio, Ft. Lauderdale and the Washington, DC area for many years and I like them better than Austin. If I had my way, I would be on a beach somewhere. But I have a job to do here.
One of the fastest ways to make more money and to get promoted is to go where the good jobs are. If you cannot find the job you want, or if you are not being promoted fast enough, or if you think you deserve more money, go find those things elsewhere. It certainly makes sense to look for the opportunity to advance here in Austin, but it simply may not be here. Chances are you can find it elsewhere.
I moved around a lot during my career. I was driven to succeed. I wanted the big job, the big salary, the company car and the country club membership. When I couldn't find it locally, I sought it elsewhere. And I found it. I was a vice president in a major US corporation before I was 40. And I became president of a company before age 50. I have also held many other very high level corporate jobs. And I can tell you that none of that would have happened unless I was willing to relocate.
Relocating is scary to most of you. It was to me too. But you get over that after the first big move. It is a little bit easier from then on. And if you approach it with the right attitude, you can learn from your experience and broaden your knowledge and outlook. Moving around a bit to different companies and different cities gives you a better outlook and a "seasoning" that you cannot get otherwise. Most companies like employees who have seem a wider range of people and places and experienced a variety of work situations in different environments.
Look, I am not trying to hard sell you on relocating away from Austin. If fact, I do hope you stay here. All I am saying is that there are huge opportunities elsewhere. When the whole US is your job search area rather than just Austin, you are going to find many more opportunities. And I can practically guarantee that you will move up faster and make more money sooner if you consider relocation opportunities elsewhere. It is easier to relocate if you are not married with kids or if you do not have a spouse with a great local job, a family that forbids you from leaving town, or you are locked into your friends. At least consider it an option in your bag of tricks to advance your career.
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Louis E. Frenzel
Copyright, 1999
INTRODUCTION
When you graduate from the SMT program with your Associate In Applied Science degree, you will have one of the best credentials there is for getting a good job in the field. However, there is one additional thing you can do to ensure that you get the best job, in the best company, for the highest pay. And that is, get certified. Let me tell you more about it.
WHAT IS CERTIFICATION?
Certification is a process that tests your knowledge, assesses your experience and background, evaluates your skills, or otherwise validates your competency in some particular field of endeavor. This process is carried out by some sponsoring organization and typically leads to the award of a formal certificate. This credential tells the world that you are knowledgeable and competent in this particular field.
Over the years, dozens of certification programs have been established to evaluate the qualifications of those people working in just about every field you can name, including computing and electronics. These programs provide a way for you to determine your own abilities and qualifications. In addition, they are a good way to demonstrate to your employer, your clients and customers, and others that you have more than adequate knowledge to do your job and that you meet all of the technical requirements in a particular specialty.
Today there are thousands of different certification programs for individuals in virtually all fields of endeavor. Many are common and well known, such as the Certified Public Accountant, while others are widely held but virtually unknown. Because of such widespread acceptance and use of certification, you probably know several people who hold certifications or other similar credentials. Ask your friends or relatives if they have any certifications and what their opinion and experiences are.
THE RATIONALE FOR CERTIFICATION
The reason why certification is so widely recognized, accepted and revered is that we want those who are going to perform certain types of work or those who will perform services for us to be knowledgeable and competent. We don't want sloppy, incomplete or botched jobs. We want the work to be done correctly and professionally. And we particularly want to know that the work is being done by someone who is fully qualified. Certification (and licensing) gives you some confidence that the work will be carried out successfully.
Certification and licensing are particularly important when our health, safety, personal well-being, financial status, and reputations are being impacted. When you go to a doctor or a dentist, you certainly want that the physician be have an appropriate college degree and have passed all the necessary license examinations. We want our attorneys to be well educated, knowledgeable, experienced and to have passed the bar exam so that they may deal with our legal problems successfully.
Consider the world of engineering. Engineers design and build things. We want our engineers to have college degrees and to be registered professional engineers. In engineering, the registration or licensing is handled on a state by state basis. Professional engineering registration is granted upon meeting minimum education requirements and passing specific tests as well as meeting specific job experience requirements. When you become a registered professional engineer, you are allowed to practice engineering in your state. This means that you may design products, systems, or structures and do consulting work on such projects. Registration helps to ensure that you have the necessary qualifications to do the work competently. Considering the kinds of work engineers do, we want our engineers to be competent.
Licensed engineers are more likely to build bridges that don't fall down when they are heavily loaded. Registered architects are more likely to build buildings that will not blow over in a strong hurricane. Professional electrical engineers will more competently design, build and maintain nuclear power generation plants and distribution systems that are safe and reliable. Engineers also build roads, sewerage systems, and many other public facilities and we want them to work competently and reliably.
The field of medicine has many different types of certifications. There are numerous classes of nursing which include registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and other variations. Most laboratory technicians are also required to have one or more special certifications related to their specialties. X-ray technicians are a good example because they must handle radiation that is very dangerous to humans unless it is used properly. Ultrasound technicians who scan a pregnant woman to see the baby must be certified. There are dozens of other examples.
Consider the field of aviation. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) licenses pilots. Would you want to fly in an airplane piloted by someone who was unlicensed? And what about those people who work on the aircraft? The FAA also licenses those who maintain and install aircraft engines or make airframe repairs. Such licensing ensures that the people who do such work know what they are doing and follow proper rules and procedures.
There are also many certifications associated with the field of finance. A certified public accountants (CPA) is an example of a person who can keep your books, do your taxes, and perform audits on your personal finances or your business. A certified financial analyst (CFA) is one who works in the fields of banking and investments. Stock brokers must also be licensed to ensure their knowledge of ethical and technical practices.
The automotive field also uses certification. Don't you want the person repairing your brakes, air bag, or suspension to be certified?
But not all certifications deal directly with your health and personal safety. Many certifications simply relate to work that you wish to have accomplished by someone who can do it competently. Most certifications in the field of computers and electronics fall into this category. Certified people can do the work competently and usually in less time and at lower cost and with fewer "call-backs" than those who do not meet these certification standards.
MANDATORY vs VOLUNTARY CERTIFICATION
If you wish to work in specific field or do a certain type of job, licensing or certification may be mandatory. Becoming a pilot, a real estate broker, or an x-ray technician are examples.
However, in the fields of electronics and computers, certification is in most cases strictly voluntary. You may encounter a situation where a particular certification is required to get a certain job, but rarely is such a credential the only way to get or do the job successfully. Yet, having the certification related to the job can usually give you an edge in hiring and in actually doing the job successfully.
Even though your job may not demand certification, having it will usually set you apart from the masses and give you a head start or, as they say, "a leg up."
THE BENEFITS OF CERTIFICATION
One day, on your way to work or school, you notice that a red light on your dashboard labeled "brakes" has come on. Looking in the owner's manual, you find that this is an indication that your brakes are wearing thin and should be replaced. You have been noticing that it takes a little bit longer and a little bit more brake pressure to stop these days than it used to. And occasionally you have been noticing funny squealing noises that appear to be coming from the brakes. You know that you are going to have to get them fixed.
In mentioning this to a friend, you learn that he knows someone named Joe-Bob who has an auto repair shop out on Farm Road 1055. Your friend tells you that Joe-Bob's been fixing cars for years and will give you a good deal. One Saturday you drive out to Joe-Bob's and ask him about fixing your brakes. You are somewhat concerned that a guy like Joe-Bob in a dirt floor garage will do a professional job for you.
Driving back home, you spot a suburban auto repair shop that advertises brake repairs by certified auto mechanics. You stop in and find that the shop is clean and that the technicians who make the repairs are all certified with specializations in..... ta daa..... brake servicing. This is where you decide to take your car.
What helped to make your decision? Well, the physical condition of the repair shop and its location no doubt greatly influenced your decision. But I suspect that your decision, perhaps made more subconsciously than not, was based upon the fact that the people doing the work are certified. You assume, and rightly so, that the certified workers give you some assurance that the work will be done right. A botched brake job could cost you dearly in car repairs, insurance premiums, or even your physical safety and your life or the lives of others.
This example points up probably the greatest asset of certification. That is, to the person, customer, or client for whom work is performed or services are rendered, there is an unstated assurance or guarantee that the work will be done expertly. No human endeavor is perfect as we all know, but the fact that the work will be performed by a qualified certified person is comforting. And most customers are will to pay a little extra for that peace of mind.
Benefits to Organizations and Companies
In addition to the benefits that customers and clients receive, those companies or organizations performing work or rendering services can also benefit significantly by employing certified individuals. The brake shop you took your car to benefited from your new business simply because it offered work by certified individuals. Certified work brings in new clients and customers and many times such customers will pay more for guaranteed high quality work.
Benefits to Employees
As the certified employee of a company, you will also receive numerous benefits. Having a particular certification probably got you the job. And in most cases, your certification allows you to continue or advance on the job. Your pay may even be connected to whether you are certified or the grade of certification that you hold. With certification, almost everyone involved benefits.
Personal Benefits
The benefits of certification are primarily job and career related. But certification can also bring you some more intangible benefits that you may not have thought of. If you are not yet convinced that certification can be of value to you, take a look at some of these unsuspected personal benefits that may accrue to you.
Obtaining Employment - Having a specific certification may help you get a job. Many jobs in the computing and electronic fields require a specific license or certification. For example, in order to work in the marine and aviation electronic fields servicing radio, navigation and other communications equipment, you must have an FCC commercial radio telephone license. The government requires anyone working on this equipment have this license. Therefore, employers simply cannot hire you unless you have that particular license.
In other cases simply having certification provides you with a known and verifiable credential that says to an employer that you have a certain minimum level of education, knowledge and experience. It minimizes the risk of the employer in hiring new personnel.
A good example of this is what happened to one of my sons over the past year. After a year or so of college and indecision about what to do with his life, my younger son decided to go to work for a while before continuing with school. But because of the generic nature of his college work, he had no particular specialization or skills. He couldn't decide what to do or where to work and he wasn't about to take any kind of minimum wage job.
On the other hand, he had maintained a significant interest in personal computers for several years. He had two personal computers of his own, had done some tutoring for neighbors and even did some repairs, up-grades and installations of hardware and software for neighbors and friends. He had even done some work for my own company installing and repairing computers and even setting up our first network. While all of this work was part-time and "on the side", he had a significant knowledge and skill in this field.
But despite his knowledge and skill, he had no success in landing a job as a PC technician. Employers want to see credentials like diplomas or degrees, of course. I suggested that he take the A+ certification exam. The A+ certification is designed to test the competency of PC service technicians.
After several months of reading and personal study, he passed the A+ certification exam on the first try. Within weeks of passing the exam and stating his certification on his resume, he landed his first good job as a PC service technician.
The certification in this case took the place of a college degree or other formal educational credential normally required by an employer. To employers in the PC field, particularly those who know what A+ is, it was more than adequate credential to base hiring upon.
During the past year my son has achieved additional certifications in various hardware and software specialties. He has received Novell NetWare certification, various Microsoft certifications and even hardware certifications by Compaq and Hewlett Packard. And in the field of computing, such credentials are often of far more value than having a more generic college degree.
Make no mistake about it, certification can get you a job. If you are one of those individuals that has a random collection of education and experience but with no particular credential to show for it, certification is a way to pull it all together to show documented evidence of your competence.
Obtain a Raise - Obtaining a certain license or achieving a particular level of certification can also result in an increase in salary. Many years ago as an electronic technician, I obtained my first certification as an Engineering Technician and was awarded with a 10% pay raise. In many organizations, the job positions themselves are allocated to those who have certification or those who don't. Many also have pay grades identified with levels of certification associated with the job. Achieving certification brings you one pay level while achieving a higher level of certification brings about a raise.
Achieving certification and making your employer aware of it can often result in more pay. You should find out in your own organization what certifications are recognized and how pay scales may be related to them.
Achieving a Promotion - By achieving a certain type or level of certification, you will typically become more competent and productive on your job. Most employers will notice this and may ultimately grant you a promotion as a result. Those of you seeking career advancement no doubt watch carefully for new higher level openings in your organization to which you may aspire. By achieving a specific type or level of certification and making those credentials known to the hiring manager, you could become a candidate for the job and ultimately the selected employee.
Become More Confident - Confidence is one of those personal qualities that allows you to project an image of success and professionalism. People can tell whether or not you are confident in your work and in yourself. Confidence shows and those who exhibit this characteristic are those most likely to rise in the company or otherwise succeed in their chosen field.
Achieving certification is a great way to improve your self-confidence. Even though your job or position may not actually require the certification, simply by achieving one or more certifications you prove to yourself that you do have a certain level of knowledge and skills. While you may know all along that you possess such qualifications, somehow having outside independent verification of this gives you greater of confidence in your abilities. Obtaining a high level, difficult certification or license can give you much higher self-esteem and self-assurance, both of which are essential to your success in today's highly competitive world.
Become More Knowledgeable in Your Field - Certification may not be a requirement to obtain a job or rise successfully in an organization. Yet by working on such a certification you can become generally more knowledgeable in your field of specialization. Achieving certification requires a certain amount of new learning. In the computer and electronic fields, technological advances continue at an increasing rate. Technical knowledge obsolescence is a major problem for engineers, technicians, programmers, and other technical professionals. Things that you learned a year ago may be totally useless today. But by working on a certification you can learn new subjects and expand your overall knowledge. In addition, most organizations granting certification now require those who are certified to maintain their competency through continuing education to renew their certification. Becoming certified forces you to continue your education and competence. It has been said that in technical fields, the more you learn, the more you earn. Achieving certification builds your knowledge and helps you to achieve a higher degree of overall success.
Consulting Opportunities - Achieving certain types of licenses or certifications may also make it possible for you to become self employed or to do consulting work on the side. I know of registered professional engineers who work full time for one company, but perform non-competitive consulting projects on the side for other organizations, thereby building their experience and adding to their income. Such moonlighting brings extra bucks but can ultimately lead to a new and better job.
I have also known several network technicians who have achieved high levels of certification who have left their employer and become full time freelance network consultants in their own business. As a freelance contractor to other companies, you gain the advantage of being able to work with a wide variety of equipment, systems, software and problems. This significantly builds your overall competence in the field and makes you even more valuable to those who need such services.
Your Decision to Certify
At least one of these benefits should motivate you to investigate one or more certifications related to your work. Even if you may not need the certification to obtain a job, advance in your company, or remain employed, the personal growth and confidence connected with achieving this certification can enhance your professionalism and open other opportunities. In the computer and electronic fields, there is typically at least one or more certifications for everyone.
In the next section, I have outlined as many of the certifications as I could identify. New certifications are being added regularly and I will report on those additions in future editions of this article.
CERTIFICATION IN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING
Currently, there is no certification related to semiconductor manufacturing. However, a formal industry certification has been discussed and considered for years. A major effort was made by Sematech recently, but no formal decision came of it. One of the main reasons why no certification has been established is that hiring companies have such a wide range of requirements for their technicians. Perhaps one of these days a formal certification could be established.
In the meantime, virtually all of the semiconductor and semiconductor equipment companies recognize established certifications in electronics. This is particularly true for equipment maintenance tech positions. Having a recognized certification will almost certainly bring about some of the benefits listed earlier.
I personally recommend the certification offered by the International Society of Certified Electronic Technicians (ISCET). It is well known and highly regarded. (And, yes, I do have this certification myself.)
ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS
Outlined in this section are all of the licenses and certifications that are available in the field of electrical and electronic technology. I have not included registration as a professional engineer since you need an engineering degree and since it is not relevant to most electronic and semiconductor jobs. If you need more information on this, let me know.
FCC License
One of the most popular and widely recognized licenses in electronics is the FCC General Radiotelephone License (GROL). The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) grants several different types of licenses for those who work in the field of radio communications. There are operator permits that simply allow a person to operate certain types of aircraft, marine or coastal radio stations. No technical knowledge is required to get these permits. However, you must speak English and pass a simple exam on radio rules and regulations and operating procedures.
Another type of license is the radiotelegraph license required by ship radio operators. The test is highly technical and also requires that a person be able to send and receive Morse code at 16 to 20 words per minute.
The license of greatest interest and value is the General Radiotelephone Operator's License (GROL). The GROL is required by individuals who operate, install, repair, maintain and service marine and aircraft radios and stations, coastal marine stations, and AM/FM/TV broadcast stations. This license is NOT required to service two way mobile and handheld radios, CB radios, cellular telephones or any other type of communications equipment. The FCC also offers several specialty endorsements to the GROL. These are the ship's radar endorsement and the Global Marine Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) endorsement. Both are required by certain types of marine operators and technicians. The ship radar endorsement has good coverage of microwave principles and radar techniques and equipment and is an excellent addition to the GROL.
The big question that most people ask about the FCC license is why get this credential if you do not need it? The answer is simple: The FCC GROL is very well known and highly respected. People know what it is also know that it is an excellent indicator of general electronic and communications knowledge and competence. Many employers demand it even though the law does not require it. Others use it as a screening and qualifying credential for hiring and promotions. So even though you may not need it, the GROL is probably the best of all of the electronic credentials listed here. It is very highly recommended.
The FCC no longer administers the exams for this license themselves. Instead, they subcontract the exam delivery to private firms who have qualified. These organizations are referred to as Commercial Operator License Examination Managers (COLEM). The official COLEMs in the U.S. are listed below. Contact them individually for information on exam costs, times, procedures, etc.
Drake Training and Technologies
8800 Queen Avenue South
Bloomington, MN 55431
800-401-EXAM
Electronic Technicians Association International, Inc.
602 North Jackson Street
Greencastle, Indiana 46135
317-653-4301 or 317-653-8262
Elkins Institute, Inc.
P. O. Box 797666
Dallas, Texas 75379
800-944-1603
International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET)
2708 West Berry Street
Fort Worth, Texas 76109
817-921-1100
National Association of Business and Educational Radio, Inc. (NABER)
1501 Duke Street
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
800-759-0300
Sea School
5905 4th Street North
St. Petersburg, Florida 33703
800-237-8663
Sylvan KEE Systems
9135 Guilford Road
Columbia, Maryland 21046
800-967-1100
The National Association of Radio Telecommunications Engineers, Inc. (NARTE)
P. O. Box 678
Medway, Massachusetts 02053
508-533-8333
The W5YI Group, Inc.
National Radio Examiners Division
P. O. Box 565206
Dallas, Texas 75356-5206
817-461-6443
The GROL test is a three part, multiple choice exam with about 100 questions. The first part covers FCC rules and regulations related to radio communications. The second part covers proper procedures for making contacts with other stations. The third and longest part covers all of the relevant technical theory and practice. The exams covers basic electrical principles, electronic components and circuits, circuits related to transmitters and receivers, antennas and radio wave propagation, and many other allied topics.
The FCC publishes the complete set of test questions that individuals can use to study and prepare for the exam. Copies of these may be purchased from the COLEMs. These are also on the FCC's web-site (www.fcc.gov). There are also several books, courses, and study guides available from publishers. Check out the technical section of a local book store if you are interested.
Certifications
Certifications are offered by several professional societies and associations. These non-profit organizations are in the business of testing individuals for certification and representing their certified members.
Listed below are those certifications related to electronics.
National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET)
1420 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22314-2794
703-684-2835
This organization is sponsored by the National Society for Professional Engineers (NSPE). They have been granting certifications since 1961. This is an engineering certification. It is designed for those technicians and technologists who are involved in design and development work rather than installation, service and repair. They have strict education requirements, usually either an associate degree or a bachelors degree in engineering technology from an accredited college. To become certified you must pass a rigorous exam in basic engineering fundamentals, math and the technology of your field of specialization and meet specific requirements for experience in the field. The NICET certifies individuals in many fields including electrical power, electronics, mechanical, civil, industrial, telecommunications, architectural/building construction, geotechnical, and transportation/highway, and fire protection systems. As of 1995, there were approximately 90,000 certified technicians and technologists in all fields.
This is probably the toughest of all certifications, but it is relevant only to design and engineering work. Since most electronics work at the technician level is repair, maintenance, and general service, it may not be the best choice for you. But if you work in a design, development or research job, this is a good credential to have.
There are two basic levels of engineering certification, one for technologists and the other for technicians. The basic qualifications are outlined below.
1. Certified Engineering Technologist (CET)
To receive this highest level of certification, you must be a graduate of an accredited bachelors degree program in engineering technology. These are awarded by many colleges and universities around the country. Accredited here means accreditation by the Technology Accreditation Board (TAB) of the Accrediting Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET). There are many technology bachelors degree programs fully accredited by the state and the regional accrediting organizations but not ABET/TAB accredited. The NICET does not recognize any thing but ABET/TAB accreditation. ACC is not ABET accredited since we do not teach engineering technology.
If you do have the appropriate degree, you can become immediately certified as an Associate Engineering Technologist (AT). After five years of relevant work experience, you can apply for the higher grade of Certified Engineering Technologist (CT).
2. Engineering Technician Certification
The NICET has a variety of programs for becoming a certified engineering technician. The two main types are job-task competency or general knowledge competency. The job-task competency certification focuses on a very specific specialty and set of narrow set of competencies. The general knowledge programs require a broader range of knowledge and skills. The certifications in the electrical and electronic fields are of the general knowledge type. There are only three current job-task competency programs that contain some element of electronics. These are the industrial instrumentation, fire protection, and low voltage electronic communications specialties. Industrial instrumentation refers to measurement and control principles in the process control field normally associated with chemical and petroleum plants, food processing, and the environmental fields. Fire protection is a field associated with fire alarms and automatic fire extinguishing systems. Low voltage communications systems refer to electrical wiring associated with the installation and maintenance of audio equipment and wiring as in large public address systems.
There are four levels of technician certification. The general qualifications for each are listed below. Each of these levels is achieved by meeting specific education and experience requirements and passing relevant exams. The exams are designated part A and Part B. Part A covers math including algebra, trig and analytic geometry. No calculus is involved. Also in Part A are questions about basic communication skills including writing skills, business communications procedures, grammar, and basic drafting techniques with engineering drawings. The third part of the Part A exam covers the physical sciences such as physics and chemistry.
Part B is a comprehensive exam covering your technical specialty.
Level I - Technician Trainee (TT)
This an entry level position for those with no specific completed formal education and no formal work experience. By passing the Part A exam, and receiving an endorsement from an employer or other responsible sponsor, the individual may be certified at this level.
Level II - Associated Engineering Technician (AET)
You can become certified at this level by having at least two years of relevant engineering technician experience. If you have an appropriate Associate degree, you can enter this level with only six months of experience. You must also take exam parts A and B.
Level III - Engineering Technician (ET)
If you came in at the AET level, you can upgrade to the ET level by application and demonstrating five additional years of progressively responsible experience. If you are entering at this level, you must have an Associate degree and at least five years of experience. You must also take exam parts A and B.
Level IV - Senior Engineering Technician (SET)
This is the highest level and it requires ten additional years of higher level work experience beyond the requirements of the CET level. In addition, you must show proof of involvement in at least one major work project.
The requirements for certification by NICET are very complex and detailed. If you think this certification is for you, call for the information and an application, then study the requirements so you can figure out what exactly you will have to do based upon your particular qualifications and background.
One last thing about NICET certification. Beginning in 1995, the NICET began requiring individuals to become recertified every three years based upon active participation in their specialty field and a combination of continuing education and other professional activities. This makes maintaining this certification very challenging indeed. Yet, because of the tough requirements, this certification means more than most of the others. It says that the certified individuals truly are competent and up-to-date in their work field.
International Society of Certified Electronic Technicians
(ISCET)
2708 West Berry Street
Fort Worth, TX 76109
817-921-9101
817-921-3741 (fax)
ISCET has been issuing certifications in the electronic field since 1965. It is a membership association as well as a certification testing organization. Currently there are over 41,000 ISCET certified techs.
ISCET certification is focused primarily on service technicians who install, service, repair, maintain, troubleshoot, test and operate electronic equipment of all types. Its basic purpose is to improve the competence, professionalism, and status of the electronic technician. Most ISCET techs specialize in one of several fields. These specializations include:
1. Consumer electronics (TV, radio, VCR, CD players, audio)
2. Industrial electronics (sensing and feedback control)
3. Communications (all areas, 2-way radio, telephone, satellite, etc.)
4. Computer (primarily PC related including peripherals)
5. Audio (stereo systems, public address, etc)
6. Medical (biomedical measurements and instrumentation)
7. Radar
8. Video (TV plus cameras, VCRs, editing, etc)
There are two levels of certification, Associate and Journeyman. To achieve the Associate level, you must be a student or a working tech with less than four years of experience. Then you must pass the Associate level exam which is a comprehensive exam covering all of electronic fundamentals related to components, circuits, electrical theories, transistors, circuits, ICs, digital, and test/ measurement procedures.
To reach the Journeyman level, you must have four or more years of relevant experience. Then you must pass the Associate exam and one or more of the Journeyman exams in the specialties listed earlier. In some cases, formal education may be applied to the experience requirement.
Like most other certifying organizations, ISCET just recently announced a program to help keep certified techs up to date and current in their knowledge. Called the Registered CET program, it requires the CET to complete at least 20 contact hours of continuing education in a two year period or pass another CET Journeyman exam to retain Registered CET status.
I strongly recommend this certification. Probably the best is the Industrial specialization which is a good fit with semiconductor equipment maintenance.
Electronic Technician Association (ETA)
602 North Jackson Street
Greencastle, IN 46135
317-653-8262
This non-profit organization has been offering certifications in virtually all fields of electronics since 1978. The ETA is also a membership organization for those who become certified and offers publications, educational activities, an annual conference, local chapters and other services designed to maintain the competency of its members.
The ETA certifications are designed primarily for those technicians who are involved in the repair, service, troubleshooting and maintenance of electronic equipment. Most ETA certified techs specialize in one of the following options:
1. Consumer electronics (radio, TV, VCR, audio, etc)
2. Video distribution (MATV, cable, etc)
3. Wireless communications (2-way radio, cellular, etc)
4. Avionics (Aircraft communications and navigation equipment)
5. Telecommunications (Telephone systems, microwave, data comm.)
6. Industrial control
7. Computer
8. Bio-medical
9. TVRO (Satellite TV systems)
10. Radar
The ETA also offers two special certifications:
1. Certified Satellite Installer
2. Certified Customer Service Specialist
Both of these certifications are not regular options to standard certification.
There are four grades or levels of certification in the ETA.
Associate - This is the entry level. If a person has less than four years of experience, her or she may apply for this level. It is achieved by passing a comprehensive exam on electronic fundamentals.
Journeyman - The Journeyman level is the primary level for most experienced technicians. It requires four or more years of relevant experience. You must then pass the Associate exam plus the Journeyman exam in one of the specialty options given above.
Senior - You can achieve Senior level status by showing proof of eight or more years of experience and passing the Associate exam and one Journeyman exam.
Master - A Master technician level can be achieved by showing evidence of eight or more years of experience. Then, you must pass the Associate exam plus six (!) of the Journeyman option exams. This category is for professional electronics technicians, managers, consultants, or education who have been active for many years.
The great feature of the ETA certification is that it does not require any specific type of education. Many successful people in electronics have not been to college or received any formal education other than say military training. The ETA certification lets these individuals obtain a formal, meaningful credential that lets them compete more equally with persons with formal educational credentials.
Once you become certified, you are eligible to become a member of the ETA organization. You will receive it publications and can attend its local meetings and an annual conference. ETA also offers a variety of study materials and educational activities to keep you up to date.
The ETA just recently instituted a recertification procedure that requires you to requalify for certification every four years. To do this, you must pass the current CET exam for your level or show evidence of 40 contact hours of validated educational activities in relevant subjects. Such recertification programs ensure that you maintain your competence, knowledge and abilities despite the changing technology. It make the certification significantly more important and relevant.
For more details on the exams and how to prepare, contact ETA for their package of information. ETA also offers excellent practice exams on computer disk as well as and computer-based tutorials for preparing for the exams.
Personal Communications Industry Association
Formerly National Association of Business and Educational Radio Inc. (NABER)
1501 Duke Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
800-759-0300
The primary focus of this group is two way mobile radio of all types and the related base stations.
National Association of Radio and Telecommunications Engineers (NARTE)
P.O. Box 678
Medway, MA 02053
508-533-8333
This organization offers certifications in the field of electronic communications. If you work with two-way radio, telephone systems, cellular, satellites, avionics, networks, fiber optics or any other kind of communications specialty, NARTE probably has a certification for you. There are currently over 13,000 NARTE certified engineers and technicians. NARTE is also an authorized COLEM to give the FCC license exams.
There are two basic types of NARTE certification, technician or engineer. And there are several levels of certification within each type. If you have an engineering degree and do design work in communications, you will want to pursue the engineering certification. The entry level is Class III. If you have a bachelors degree in an appropriate discipline plus four or more years of relevant experience, you can skip the exam and go directly to the certification. If you do not have the degree, you can take the exam if you meet the experience requirement. The higher levels of engineering certification Class I and Class II have similar requirements including eight or six years of experience respectively. Both require an exam.
Technician certifications are for those who do technician level work such as installation, troubleshooting, maintenance, service and repair. There are four certification levels. Class IV is the entry level class for those with less than two years of experience. You must pass an exam and show some proof of formal education in electronics and communications. Class III requires two or more years of experience plus you must have an associate degree in an electronic or communication curriculum or pass an exam. If you already have the FCC GROL, you can skip the exam.
For Class II you must pass an appropriate exam and have six or more years of experience. The highest level is Class I for which you need eight or more years of experience and pass an appropriate exam.
An interesting thing about the NARTE certification program is that you may receive endorsements to your regular certification in areas of specialization. There are dozens of fields in which you can receive endorsements. Telephone systems, fiber optic cable, encryption, networks, ISDN, multiplex, radio or TV broadcast, cellular telephone, radar, avionics, microwave, satellites, lasers and many others.
The NARTE offers two unique certifications in electrostatic discharge (ESD) and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). ESD refers to lightening and to the static discharge that can build up and destroy electronic components and equipment. Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is a field devoted to studying the frequency spectrum and how it should be managed for maximum usage with minimum interference between services. It also refers to the control of electromagnetic interference (EMI) which is generated by non-communications electrical and electronic devices (computers, power lines, etc) and interrupts communications. Both ESD and EMC/EMI are growing communications specialties.
Society of Broadcast Engineers Inc (SBE)
8445 Keystone Crossing, Suite 140
Indianapolis, IN 46240
317-253-1640
The SBE certifies engineers and technicians in the radio and TV broadcast fields. Also covered are the fields of satellite and microwave.
Society of Cable TV Engineers (SCTE)
140 Phillips Road
Exton, PA 19341-1318
610-363-6888
Certifications are offered for both engineer and technician level people.
Satellite Dealers Association (SDA)
607 North Jackson Street
Greencastle, IN 46135
317-653-8262
This organization is associated with the ETA and offers a certification for satellite installers. See the section on ETA certification.
Electronic Industries Association (EIA)
The EIA is an association of electronics manufacturers. Its members are the largest manufacturers of electronic components and equipment. It plays a major role in the consumer electronics field. EIA offers several certifcations that are worthy of consideration.
Electronic Industries Alliance
Certified Electronic Associate (CEA)
2500 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22201
703-907-7670
www.eia.org
The CEA program is a generic certification for electronic technicians. It covers all of the basic knowledge that a good tech needs to know. No experience is required to get this certification. But there is a comprehensive test covering DC and AC circuits and fundamentals, electromagnetism and transformers, linear circuits and devices, digital circuits and devices, microprocessors and microcomputers. The exam has 100 multiple choice questions and you need to get a grade of 70 or better to pass.
This is a relatively new certification. It is not widely known or used at this point, but because it has the backing of EIA, it should be highly regarded and recognized once more people get it. I strongly recommend this one, as getting it will really firm up your grasp of the fundamentals and the EIA sponsorship will speak for itself in the industry.
Another good reason for going after this certification is that both ISCET and ETA accept the EIA certification as equivalent to their entry level associate grade of certification. What this means is that if you get the EIA certification, you can apply for the entry-level certification of ISCET and EIA without additional testing. You can then go on to the higher level specialized certifications of those organizations that EIA does not offer.
The EIA should have a formal study guide for this program by now. Contact them for details.
Consumer Electronics Manufacturers Association (CEMA)
Mobile Electronics Division
2500 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22201
703-907-7682
703-907-7601 (fax)
The Mobile Electronics Certification Program (MECP) is designed to check the competence of those individuals who install electronic equipment in vehicles. The most common installation is a specialty stereo autosound system. Other typical after-market installations include auto security systems and cellular telephones. Because it is possible to really mess up the electrical system of a car or truck and cause major damage and/or void the warranty, resellers of this type of equipment require their technicians to have knowledge and competency as verified by a certification.
There are several levels of certification. These include Installer, First Class, Autosound Specialist, Security Specialist, Cellular Specialist, and Master. All of them require tests, and the First Class and Specialist certifications require notarized proof of one year of experience in the field. Otherwise, there are no education or other requirements.
Mobile electronics is a large and growing field and these certifications are becoming not only popular but necessary for employment in the field. Having this certification is the key to working in this field.
Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation
1901 North Fort Myer Drive, Suite 602
Arlington, VA 22290-1699
703-525-4890
This association sponsors the Biomedical Electronic Technician (BMET) certification. It is for those individuals who work in hospitals or for medical equipment companies. These individuals install, troubleshoot and service all types of critical medical equipment. This includes patient telemetry monitors, IV drip controllers, blood analysis machines, blood dialysis machines and even the expensive CAT scanners, X-ray machines and magnetic resonance imaging machines. Given the critical nature of this type of equipment, it should not surprise you that some form of certification is required to work on it.
This is one of the toughest electronic certifications to get. It not only requires an excellent electronics background, but also knowledge of personal computers, as well as human anatomy and physiology.
ISA International Society for Measurement and Control
67 Alexander Drive
P. O. Box 12277
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709
919-549-8411
919-549-8288 (Fax)
E-mail: info@isa.org
ISA OnLine: http://www.isa.org
Formerly the Instrument Society of America, the International Society for Measurement and Control is a professional association that focuses on the fields of electronic instrumentation, measurement and control. Typical members are engineers, technicians, scientists and managers working for companies process control plants, factories, refineries and other facilities for manipulating raw materials and manufacturing a variety of products and substances. Some examples are gasoline and petroleum refineries; plants that make chemicals, drugs, and plastics, food processors and beverage bottlers, and factories that make textiles, wood and paper products, metals and semiconductors.
Engineers and technicians who design, install, operate, maintain and repair the equipment and systems used in such facilities. Instrumentation for measurements is widely used throughout such plants to ensure that the process is accurate and good quality control is maintained. Most plants use automatic closed loop control systems, both analog and digital. Computers are widely used. Other systems employ communications, telemetry or analytical instrumentation.
Highly qualified personnel are necessary to proper produce the quantity and quality of product while maintaining the safety of the workers and the plant equipment and facilities. Most operation, maintenance and repair is handled by technicians. To ensure that these techs have the necessary knowledge and skills, many plants employ certified technicians.
The ISA sponsors the Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) program. There are three levels of certification based upon years of experience in the industry, education, participation in an apprenticeship program, or some combination. Each level requires an examination.
Level I
1. 5 years combination of education and experience.
2. An academic degree (AS or BS) may substitute for up to 4 years of the total.
3. Relevant work experience
Level II
1. 7 years total combination of education and experience.
2. An academic degree (AS or BS) may substitute for up to 4 years of the total.
3. Relevant work experience.
Level III
1. 13 years total combination of education and experience.
2. An academic degree (AS or BS) may substitute for up to 4 years of the total.
3. Relevant work experience.
You may enter at any level you are qualified.
An interesting feature of this certification is that it must be renewed every three years. Furthermore, you must pass an examination appropriate to the level of certification. Otherwise, you must show proof of relevant work experience and related additional training. One of the following is necessary:
1. 3 years work experience and 30 hours of training.
2. 2 years work experience and 60 hours of training.
3. One year of work experience and 90 hours of training.
Requiring documented proof of additional experience and training in the field for renewal is a growing trend in certification. This helps to ensure the integrity of the credential and attests to your increased competency. It means that you are up-to-date and highly qualified to back up what the certification implies.
This is one certification that I strongly recommend. So much of the equipment in semiconductor manufacturing is related to instrumentation and control that this certification is truly relevant. Many fab technicians and facilities technicians are also members or ISA. This is a tough certification but a super credential to help you get hired or promoted.
Society of Manufacturing Engineers
One SME Drive
P. O. Box 930
Dearborn, Michigan 48121
313-271-1500
313-271-2861 (Fax)
http://www.sme.org
The SME is a professional association whose members are engineers or technicians working in the broad field of manufacturing. The SME sponsors many sub-associations that specialize in some specific area of manufacturing. These associations cover the fields of:
1. Electronics manufacturing
2. Finishing processes
3. Computer and automated systems
4. Composites
5. Forming technologies
6. Machine Vision
7. Plastics molding
8. Rapid prototyping
9. Robotics
The SME sponsors three levels of certification. These are listed below along with the basic requirements.
1. Certified Manufacturing Technologist (CMfgT)
a. 4 year combination of education and relevant work experience.
b. Successful passing of the Fundamentals of Manufacturing exam.
Some of the topics on the exam are math, materials, design including CAD, manufacturing processes, management and economics, quality control, and computer applications and automation (CNC, CAD, CAM, CIM, etc.).
2. Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE)
a. 10 year combination of education and related work experience. A maximum of 5 years education is allowed.
b. Successful passing of the Fundamentals of Manufacturing exam or a current Professional Engineers (PE) registration.
c. Successful passing of the Manufacturing Engineering exam.
Some of the most important exam topics are CIM, robotics, machine vision, computer networks, CAM, processes, and support operations.
3. Certified Enterprise Integrator (CEI)
a. 8-year combination of education and manufacturing work experience.
b. Successful passing of the Enterprise Integrator exam.
The CMfgT designation is primarily for technicians and entry level engineers. The CMfgE is the experienced engineers who design and improve manufacturing processes and use the more advanced technological processes. The CEI certification is for those at the higher levels of engineering or management who are involved with the "big picture" and non-technical aspects of manufacturing. Some typical topics in this field are customer emphasis, employees and team work, shared knowledge and systems, processes, resources, responsibilities, and the manufacturing infrastructure. This is a good credential for consultants.
The SME CMfgT and CMfgE certifications are good for 3 years. The CEI is good for 2 years. After that they must be renewed by either retaking the exam or by showing proof of 36 recertification credits (24 for the CEI). Such credits are awarded by the SME for any related professional activities such as additional education, in-house training, seminars, attending conferences, giving talks and papers, writing articles or books, patents, part-time teaching, and the like.
Fiber Optics Association, Inc.
Box 851
Boston, MA 02123-0851
FOA @ world.std.com
www url: http://world.std.com/~foa/
This is relatively new organization serving those who use fiber optics including the telephone companies, the cable TV companies and a growing number of network vendors. Fiber optics is the communications medium of choice for the future as it has the bandwidth to carry the high speed communications needs of the Internet and other communications services. FOA offers a certification for technicians who design, install, maintain and sell fiber optic products and systems.
If you work with fiber optics, this is a good one to consider.
Computer Technology Industry Association (CompTIA)
450 E. 22nd Street, Suite 230
Lombard, IL 60148
630-268-1818
630-268-1384
www.comptia.org
CompTIA is a non-profit trade association representing computer manufacturers, software companies, distributors, systems integrators and others serving the personal computer industry. Back in the early 90's they developed the first generic personal computer servicing certification called A+. It was designed to determine the competency of technicians who set up, service and repair PCs. Almost all of the large PC manufacturers support and recognize the A+ certification.
The A+ certification is THE certification to have if you are going to pursue the PC service field. But it is also handy to have this certification even if you plan to specialize in other areas of electronics. Since PCs are everywhere, knowledge of PC set up and service is a valuable asset in any electronic job. No matter what electronics job you take, the job will involve a PC in some way. It is to your advantage to know as much about PCs as possible as an electronic or semiconductor technician.
The A+ certification requires you to take two tests. No work experience is required. The first test, called the Core test, covers the fundamentals of PCs organization, operation, and servicing. There is very little electronics on it. The second test covers DOS and Windows. Most PC servicing requires that you have a strong knowledge of the PC disk operating system (DOS) and Microsoft's Windows that is used on virtually every PC. This second test is really a software test. There are 69 questions on the Core test and you must make a passing grade of 65% or better. There are 70 questions on the DOS/Windows and you need a 66% or better to pass. Each test costs you $128. The price seems to vary so check out their Web site for the latest information.
I consider this certification optional for electronic and semiconductor techs, but it could give you an advantage in a company where computer knowledge is a high priority. Go for the generic certifications first then add this one later, especially if you plan to work for a company where PC use is high.
PREPARING FOR CERTIFICATION
Let's assume that you have identified one or more certifications in the previous chapters that you wish to pursue. If you are working, ask your employer what credentials they recognize or prefer. Or ask any prospective employer which certification they recognize. With your goal clearly identified, you can now begin preparing to achieve it.
If you haven't already done so, write or call the sponsoring organization for detailed information on the certification program. Most of the sponsoring organizations will send you detailed information including an application form. If the information you receive does not completely answer all of your questions, feel free to call them as most are willing to answer your questions and provide any additional information that you may wish.
Evaluating Your Eligibility
The first step in preparing for the certification is to verify that you are eligible to pursue it. If you are already working in the field or have some formal education in the field, then most likely you are qualified. But you should double-check the requirements for the individual certification as it may require you to meet certain minimum standards. For example, some certifications require that you meet specific education and experience guidelines. You may have to have an Associate or Bachelors degree in a particular subject or you may have to have a minimum number of years of related experience in the field before you are eligible. If you are truly interested in such certifications, you will need to make provisions to meet those minimum qualifications for eligibility before you continue in preparing for the certification. It may mean going back to school or waiting another year or so until you achieve the level of experience required.
Most certifications do not require a specific education or experience level. You can achieve the certification on the strength of your knowledge and skills. Many organizations allow you to become certified by taking and passing an examination related to the field. If you do not have related formal education or have had much experience in the field, you can still prove your knowledge and competence in the field by seeking those certifications that require that you pass a test.
Preparing for the Exam
The main question you are most likely to ask about most certifications is what do I already know and what do I need to learn to pass the test? Before you prepare for the exam, you really need to assess your own current knowledge level to determine what it is you need to study. If you are already working in the field, chances you already known a considerable amount of the material required to pass the exam. In some cases you may know most of it and very little preparation will be needed. Then again, if you are new to the field, then you may need to do a significant amount of learning and preparation to pass the test.
Most sponsoring organizations publish materials that can help you determine your level of preparedness. Some organizations sell study guides that provide a comprehensive overview of the material contained on the exam. Some organizations even sell typical practice exams which you can take to do a formal self assessment. The typical practice exams are the best way to determine your state of readiness as the exam will pinpoint those subjects that you know and those which you need to learn. Buying any available study guides or practice exams is well worth the expense as it will help you prepare for the exam.
Books and Study Guides - A good number of books and study guides have been published by independent publishers to help you prepare for specific certifications. However, you should visit your local technical book store and find out what may be available.
Tutoring - One of the best ways to prepare for the certification exams is to work with someone who has already taken and passed it. For example, you may work with someone else in your organization who is already licensed or certified. You may want to ask if this person would help you in your preparation. Such tutors can often tell you specifically what is on the exam and what is emphasized or what's important and what's not important. If you have access to others, question them also about content and the relevancy of the various subjects.
As you are reading books or working through the study guides, it is often helpful to have someone to go to and ask questions and get clarifications on specific points.
How To Study
One of the most difficult things for most individuals to do is to study on their own. If you are preparing for the exam on your own using books and study guides, you are going to have to set up some kind of formal study program of your own.
The best way to study is to religiously set aside some time each day when you can do your studying. Some people like to get up early in the morning and put in an hour or so of reading before they go to work. Others prefer to do it in the evening. In any case, turn off the TV set, your radio or CD player and invest some quality time in reading and studying. Also try to get away from the interruptions such as spouse, significant-other or kids. A good solid hour each day is usually more than enough to prepare you for the exams. In studying technical material, it is often difficult to maintain any level of concentration for longer than about an hour. And even during that hour you should take a short break every 15 or 20 minutes or so as most of our attention spans these days are extremely short.
One good approach to take is to first take any practice exam that may be available and determine specifically those subjects on which you need the most work. Identify the questions that you missed and group them together by subject. Then block out that particular subject to study over the next several days or weeks depending upon the scope of the material. Work your way through the material until you have completed it. Use the index and table of contents of any books you have to look up the appropriate material. If a second practice exam, different from the first one, is available, then purchase and take it too just as a double check. Or go back and retake any earlier practice exam you might have failed.
Once you have satisfied yourself that you know the material or can pass a comprehensive practice exam, you are ready for the real thing. Try to apply for and take the real exam as quickly as you can after your studies. Most of us forget highly technical material very quickly so take the certification exam as soon as you can.
Taking the Exam
To take a certification exam, you must make formal application with the sponsoring organization. And in every case you will need to pay an exam fee. These fees run from about $30 to almost $200. In most cases there will be some local office where you can go to take the exam. Many of the sponsoring organizations use independent testing organizations with many local offices to perform the testing service. In some cases, however, you may have to go to a remote location to take the exam. The sponsoring organization will be able to tell you when and where.
On the day before the exam, relax and try to get a good night's sleep. There is very little that you can do in further preparation at this point. Last minute cramming usually doesn't help. If you find yourself cramming at the last minute, you are probably not ready. You may be wasting your time and money in taking the test if this is the case.
The exams themselves are almost always on-line. There are few if any "paper" exams anymore. You will sit in front of a computer or terminal and take the exam on-screen.
Most of the testing centers will inform you immediately whether or not you have passed the exam. If you pass the test, you will soon receive the formal certificate or other formal credential from the sponsoring organization.
If you fail the exam, don't be too discouraged. Most organizations will allow you to take the exam again after waiting for a particular period of time and again paying the regular exam fee.
The most important thing you can do if you fail the exam is to immediately debrief yourself on the exam itself. In most cases you will know whether or not you were able to answer the questions. Try to remember those questions that you had difficulty with and write them down. The minute the walk out of the testing center you should sit down and write what you can remember of the questions that you missed. Even if you wait a few hours or wait until the next day, you will forget much of this information. So take a pad of paper or a notebook that you can use for this purpose and do it immediately. I cannot over emphasize the importance of this step!
In some cases the testing organization may give you an actual printout giving you general information on what you passed and what you missed. This varies widely with the different certifications and, in some cases, you may receive no feedback. That's why your own personal debriefing is so important.
For some certifications, so little information is available on the content of the test and study materials are minimal. Some people actually plan to take the exam simply as a way of finding out what is on it. Most people hate to fail exams or spend the money to take the exam again, but if you are serious about getting the certification, this is one way to do it.
An Unexpected Bonus
If you can pass one certification exam then it is highly likely that you can pass similar exams. That means that for a given amount of studying and other preparation, you may be ready to take two or more certifications exams from different sponsors. This is particularly true of the electronic certifications. If you prep for say the ISCET exam, you can also probably pass the equivalent ETA exam. Passing the EIA CEA exam will allow you to go straight to the ISCET and ETA certifications with no further test-taking. Studying for the ISCET Industrial exam will also mostly prepare you for the ISA CCST exam. Passing the FCC GROL exam prepares you for the ISCET, ETA and NARTE communications exams too. If you plan well, you should be able to come out of your preparation with two or more certifications.
Reaping the Benefits of Certification
Once you have achieved certification, you should move as quickly as possible to reap some of the benefits. For example, you may wish to consider changing jobs. Having a key credential in the field may prepare you for better, higher paying jobs. Check the local classified listings over a period of several weeks to get a feel for what is available in your area.
On the other hand, if you are currently employed and plan to stay with your current organization, then you should immediately let your boss know that you have achieved certification. You can certainly inform him or her verbally but a better way would be write a short memo and make a copy of your certificate and include with it some basic information on the certification itself. I have found over the years that many bosses and employers are simply not familiar with some certifications and, therefore, may not place as high a value on it as you. That means that you have to educate them about the existence of the certification and its potential value to them and the company. One way to do this is to get copies of the literature provided by the sponsoring organization. You might even want to call them and ask them how many individuals are certified and if any testimonials are available. Attach all of this information with a copy of your certificate and send it with a short memo to your boss. It is usually appropriate to ask that this package of information also be included in your company employee file.
While nothing will typically happen immediately upon you informing your employer of your certification, but you will certainly want to bring up the subject again during your next review. You might also discuss with your boss what other higher level jobs might be available to you as a result of you having the certification.
CERTIFICATION FOR ACC SMT GRADUATES
As I have said before, I strongly recommend that you try to get at least one certification before or right after you get your ACC AAS degree. The ISCET Industrial and ISA CCST certifications are the most appropriate, in my opinion. If you do not meet the experience requirement, then go for the entry level or associate level certification then upgrade later.
I also suggest that you study for and take the exam before you are out of school too long. We forget so many facts so quickly. So take advantage of your intense current knowledge right out of school. Your mind will never be as ready. Do it while you are hot, so to speak.
We have discussed several times the potential of adding a certification prep course to the curriculum. In this way, you have to study for and take the certification exam as part of your degree requirements. With this approach, you go away from ACC with the AAS degree and a certification. This is a dynamite combination that is sure to lead to a great job.
If the idea of a certification course interests any of you, let me know. Send me an e-mail or write me a short note and drop it off at the office. If enough of you are interested, we will run a course and see how it works. We will be discussing the idea of adding the certification requirement to the program in our next Industry Advisory Committee meeting. I will keep you posted.
In the mean time, good luck.
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Here are a few important items about the SMT program that may interest you.
Back in January, 1999 ACC had a formal review by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Borad (THECB). This is the state organization that controls and regulates all public colleges and universities in the state. All schools get reviewed every four years. It is a tough and scary process as they take an in-depth look at each program then make recommendations about it.
This was the first time that the SMT program had been reviewed as the program is only just three years old. So you can imagine our anxiety at this first real review.
As it turns out, we must have done a good job as we were awarded Exemplary Program (EP) status which is THECB's top honor. Most programs are approved for continuation usually with improvement. The SMT program was rated tops. Only three other programs in ACC got this most prestigeous rating: vocational nursing, emergency medical technology (both on the Riverside campus) and fire protective services.
For us here in the department, it is a signal that we are doing a pretty good job. What it means for you is that you are part of one of the top workforce education programs in the state.
When you pick up a copy of the Fall semester schedule, you are going to think that you have the wrong college because all of the names and numbers of our courses have been changed. You might recognize some of the course names, but you will need to learn a whole new collection of course names and numbers.
What happened is this. The state legislature recently directed the THECB to have all community colleges in Texas go to a common set of courses for workforce programs. The purpose of this is to standardize all similar courses across the state and to facilitate transfer credits state-wide. If you take a course at ACC it will be the same at any other state community college and transfer credit is guaranteed if you passed the course with a C or better. This is a real benefit if you need to transfer before you graduate.
Listed below are the current course names and numbers as well as the new ones. This becomes effective September, 1999. The acronym WECM (we pronounce it weck-em) means Workforce Education Course Manual which is what the THECB calls it.
|
Old Course Number/Title |
New WECM Number/Title |
|
ELN1034 Magnetism & DC |
CETT1403 DC Circuits |
|
ELN1044 AC Circuits |
CETT1405 AC Circuits |
|
ELN1051 Semi. Ind. Overview |
SMFT1101 Semi. Mfg. Ind. Overview |
|
ELN1154 Semiconductor Devices |
CETT1429 Solid State Devices |
|
ELN2094 Basic Digital Logic |
CETT 1425 Digital Fundamentals |
|
ELN2104 Advanced Linear Circuits |
CETT1457 Linear Integrated Circuits |
|
ELN2124 Microcomputer Control |
CETT1445 Microprocessors |
|
ELN2304 Analytical Instrumentation |
INTC2471 Data Acq. & Measurement |
|
ELN2354 High Vac. & RF Systems |
SMFT2341 Vac. Princ. & RF Plasma |
|
ELN2364 Electromechanical Systems |
ELMT Industrial Electronics |
|
ELN2403 SMT I |
SMFT1343 SMT I |
|
ELN2413 SMT II |
SMFT2343 SMT II |
|
ELN 2423 Semi. Mfg. Methods |
SMFT 1341 Semi. Mfg. Methods |
|
ELN2424 Semi. Eq. Op. & Maint. |
SMFT2472 Semi. Eq. Op. & Maint. |
Even though you will need to get used to the new names and numbers, please relax because the course content does not change. The curriculum is the same, just the course names changed. The only exception to this is that the Introduction to Technical Writing course has been changed to Fundamentals of Public Speaking. Starting in the Fall, you can no longer take the tech writing course for credit toward the SMT degree. Only the new speech course will be allowed. This was a recent THECB mandate.
If you have any questions about all of this, ask your instructor or get in touch will me by e-mail.
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ELN 1051
Semiconductor Industry Overview
Special Notice
This syllabus is posted for those of you who are reviewing the Web-based version of this course. This course will be offered through the ACC Open Campus starting in the Fall semester, 1999 under the name SMFT1101 Semiconductor Manufacturing Overview.
Course Purpose/Content
The purpose of this course is to introduce you to the semiconductor industry. The
semiconductor industry is part of the larger electronics industry and offers many
excellent jobs and career opportunities. The course requires no prior knowledge of
electronics or semiconductors. You will learn electronic and semiconductor
fundamentals, integrated circuits, the semiconductor manufacturing process, the
semiconductor companies and markets, and the semiconductor equipment companies. The course concludes with a look at trends and critical issues.
Instructor
Louis E. Frenzel
Phone: 223-6290
E-mail: lfrenzel@austin.cc.tx.us
Textbook
Semiconductor Processing Overview, 1996, TEEX, Texas A & M
Assignment 1
a. Go to the Web-site www.austin.cc.tx.us/smtlef.
b. Do Module 1, Introduction to Electronics.
c. Read the chapters titled Introduction and Semiconductor Processing Measurements in the textbook
d. Take the Quiz for Module 1.
Assignment 2
a. Go to the Web-site www.austin.cc.tx.us/smtlef.
b. Do Module 2, Semiconductor Fundamentals
c. Read the chapters titled Principles of Semiconductor Material and Solid State Device Fundamentals
d. Take Quiz for Module 2.
Assignment 3
a. Go to the Web-site www.austin.cc.tx.us/smtlef.
b. Do Module 3, History of Semiconductors
c. Take Quiz for Module 3.
Assignment 4
a. Go to the Web-site www.austin.cc.tx.us/smtlef.
b. Do Module 4, Integrated Circuits.
c. Take Quiz for Module 4.
Assignment 5
Take mid-term exam.
Assignment 6
a. Go to the Web-site www.austin.cc.tx.us/smtlef.
b. Do Module 5, Semiconductor Manufacturing Processes and Equipment.
c. Read the chapter titled Integrated Circuit Fabrication.
d. Take Quiz for Module 5.
Assignment 7
a. Read the chapters in the textbook listed below.
· Material Preparation
· Oxidation
· Thin Film Deposition
· Photolithography
· Etching
· Diffusion
· Ion Implantation
· Metallization
· Probe, Assembly and Final Test
b. Take the open book Quiz for these chapters.
Assignment 8
a. Go to the Web-site www.austin.cc.tx.us/smtlef.
b. Do Module 6, Cleanrooms.
c. Read the chapter entitled Microcontamination.
d. Take Quiz for Module 6.
Assignment 9
a. Go to the Web-site www.austin.cc.tx.us/smtlef.
b. Do Module 7, Semiconductor Companies and Markets.
c. Take Quiz for Module 7.
Assignment 10.
a. Go to the Web-site www.austin.cc.tx.us/smtlef.
b. Do Module 8, Industry Trends and Critical Issues.
c. Take Quiz for Module 8.
Assignment 11.
a. Go to the Web-site www.austin.cc.tx.us/smtlef.
b. Do Module 9, Jobs and Careers In the Semiconductor Industry.
c. Take Quiz for Module 9.
Assignment 12
Take final examination.