The Best Certifications for Electrical Engineers

If you’re just getting started as an electrical engineer—or if you’re a seasoned pro looking to take your electrical engineer career to the next level—then you may already know that electrical engineering employment is expected to grow 5% over the next several years, faster than the average for all occupations (3%). In other words, it’s a good time to be an electrical engineer.

But how can you increase your chances of success in this dynamic and competitive field? By investing in certifications as a strategic move to enhance your skills, credibility, and career prospects. Take a look at just a few of your options and the impact they could have on your professional journey.

Why do certifications matter?

In general, certifications provide tangible proof of your proficiency in specific areas of your profession. Not only do certifications validate your skills to employers, clients, and peers, but they also show that you’re committed to continuous learning and professional development, giving you an edge in a competitive market. 

What are some of the available certifications?

Professional Engineer (PE)

As a licensed professional engineer, you can showcase your competence and legal authority to oversee engineering projects and provide engineering services directly to the public. The PE license opens doors to lucrative opportunities in consulting, project management, and more.

Certified Electrical Safety Compliance Professional (CESCP)

Prove you’ve got the knowledge and skills to ensure compliance with electrical safety standards and regulations with a CESCP certification. Employers will be confident that you can maintain safe working environments and mitigate electrical hazards.

Certified Energy Manager (CEM)

Energy efficiency becomes more important every year. A certified energy manager (CEM) certification equips you with the expertise to optimize energy use, reduce costs, and promote sustainability. As a CEM-certified engineer, you will spearhead energy management initiatives, implement renewable energy solutions, and drive organizational sustainability goals.

Certified Automation Professional (CAP)

Want to become a sought-after specialist in fields like manufacturing, robotics, and process control? Acquire the certified automation professional (CAP) certification to validate your proficiency in automation systems, control systems, and industrial processes. 

Where can I learn more about certifications?

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)

IEEE offers a wealth of resources for electrical engineers, including educational materials, technical publications, and networking opportunities.

National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET)

Maximize your knowledge of the components, operating characteristics, and limitations of engineering systems and processes through NICET.

American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)

ASHRAE provides certifications and educational programs in areas such as HVAC systems, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality.

American Society for Quality (ASQ)

Tools and resources like a magazine, an online video series, a library of quality resources, and a series of international conferences are available from ASQ.

Project Management Institute (PMI)

With PMI, you’ll be able to take advantage of best-in-class project management certifications, along with a growing global community, knowledge sharing, and thought leadership.

Once you’ve gained new expertise and authority via an electrical engineer certification, don’t forget to add it to your resume and LinkedIn!