Professional Development Using ASQ Certifications

I was certified as a quality engineer in 1991. I can honestly say that going through the certification process made me a better engineer and sparked interests in me that became my path for professional development:
1. A career path in quality engineering and quality management (1991-2009)
2. A Masters of Industrial Statistics (2003)
3. Certification as a Six Sigma Black Belt (2005)
4. President of Quality Minds, Inc., a six sigma consulting firm (2006-Present)

To become certified takes much work, time, and sweat. The number of certifications you pursue depends on several factors:
1. Your ambition and drive
2. Who is paying for it? You or your company?
3. Your personal life-do you have a family? How much time can you apply to this effort?
4. Your educational and experience levels
5. Your career goals Exams are given every March, June, October, and December in most metropolitan areas. You can register on line at http://www.asq.org You do not need to be a member of ASQ but it helps your wallet to be a member.

I have been teaching exam preparation courses for almost twenty years. Here are the factors, in my opinion, that separate those that pass from those that do not pass: Key Factors for Passing an Exam:
1. Have a Good Textbook: Quality Council of Indiana has great books for exam preparation
2. Support: I recommend taking a preparation course on site or online. A great online resource is www.cpionlinecourses.com It is important to have someone you can go to for questions especially with the advanced subjects
3. Study time: Decide when to study and how often you will study. You must establish a routine for studying. Don’t get behind.
4.Working problems: Practice makes perfect. Work all the problems in the textbook Seek extra problems to work. If you take a course, a good instructor will give you extra problems to work.
5. Equipment: Get one other reference material such as Juran Handbook, calculator, # 2 pencils

If you are interested in ASQ certification and want to take a preparation class, contact Stephen Deas (843 814 3864, sd@qualitymindsinc.com) or visit www.cpionlinecourses.com