ESPA launched two online tests to help future and current electronic systems technicians (ESTs) determine which steps to take next in their careers.

The Electronic Systems Professional Alliance (ESPA) launched two online tests to help future and current electronic systems technicians (ESTs) determine which steps to take next in their careers.

ESPA’s free Career Entry Survey consists of 10 simple questions to help prospective ESTs decide if a career in electronic systems contracting is right for them.  ESPA’s new Pretest Assessment helps ESTs determine if they’re ready to take the ESPA Certified-EST® exam.  The ESPA Certified-EST® tests an EST candidate's understanding of industry basics and is a true indicator of whether or not the technician is prepared for an electronic systems career.

“In today’s economy, workers need to take control of their own futures.  Education and certification are the keys for securing and growing a 21st century career,” said Grant Mydland, executive director of ESPA.  “Our Career Entry Survey helps students and career switchers identify if an EST career meshes with their personality and aptitude.  Our Pretest is a perfect vehicle for current ESTs who have never been certified and are not sure where to start.”

The ESPA Pretest helps technicians:

1. Gauge their potential for success on the exam,
2. Properly prepare for the types of questions they will see on the exam,
3. Decide whether they are ready to take the exam without training,
4. Identify the type of training they may need – from full review course to domain-specific training, and
5. Determine if they are over-qualified for the ESPA Certified-EST® and should consider higher level certifications offered by one of ESPA’s partners.

If technicians need instructor-led training based on the Pretest results, they can take advantage of several classes offered this spring and summer by ESPA partners.  The Custom Electronics Design and Installation Association (CEDIA) alone is offering 11 ESPA classes/exam sessions during the next three months.  Attendees at InfoComm 09 in Orlando, Fla., in June also can take ESPA training and sit for the ESPA Certified-EST® exam.

 
The ESPA Certified-EST® program is aimed at the entry-level technician, providing a set of fundamental best practices common across all tech markets – structured wiring, distributed audio and video, satellite, theater rooms, lighting, security and life safety systems and automation controls. Five domains of knowledge: electrical basics; tools; construction methods and materials; wiring and installation practices; and standards, codes, and safety practices, make up the ESPA Certified-EST® certification.

The ESPA Pretest is offered at $39 through Castle Worldwide; the Career Entry Survey is free.  The Career Entry Survey, Pretest Assessment and list of training and testing events can be accessed through ESPA’s website at www.ESPA.org.
 

About ESPA:
The Electronic Systems Professional Alliance builds the foundation for a career-ready technology workforce. As a professional-based organization, ESPA represents technicians – the workers that are installing, maintaining, and upgrading 21st century technology.  ESPA is a cooperative partnership between the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), the Custom Electronics Design and Installation Association (CEDIA) and the National Systems Contractors Association (NSCA). As an independent alliance, ESPA works with several trade associations, such as CABA, CompTIA, HDMI Licensing LLC, SBCA and Specialty Electronics Nationwide, and welcomes other organizations and businesses to become ESPA affiliates and help advance the ESPA mission of providing high-quality, entry-level education and certification.  The ESPA Certified-EST® and the accompanying curricula set the standard for entry-level ESTs.