At iCEV, we are passionate about preparing students for their future. As the workforce continuously evolves and changes, industry certifications offer educators an impactful way to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to enter their chosen career field successfully.
Industry certifications are developed by industry leaders and experts to represent the needs of today’s workforce. Showcasing real-world career expectations, industry certifications offer educational and technical experiences to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to be a competitive applicants and more knowledgeable employees. Industry certifications offer value to students, educators and employers in a multitude of ways. This blog will discuss the value certifications offer students and how they positively influence a student’s career journey.
Prepare Students for Their Future
It’s never too early to plan for the future. Whether a student is planning to enter post-secondary education or directly enter the workforce following high school, earning an industry certification can prepare students for whatever educational or career path they choose. When a student earns a certification, they are more qualified and prepared for the demands of the industry. As a result of being exposed to diverse industry concepts, skills and materials during the certification process students gain a sense of confidence as they enter the workforce more prepared.
If a student is planning to go directly into the workforce or is planning to enter the industry after furthering their education, an industry certification can help them be more successful in their position because they are more qualified and prepared for the job duties. Studies show applicants with industry certifications are more likely to find jobs and earn higher salaries than those without industry certifications, setting students a step ahead of their competition.
Validates Knowledge and Skills
A common problem students have when entering the workforce is displaying validated knowledge and skills to employers. Industry certifications measure competency in an occupation and validate the knowledge base and skills that show mastery in a particular industry. The standards and topics addressed in an industry certification exam are established and verified by industry leaders, potential employers and other interested parties. When an employer sees an industry certification on a resume, they can be assured the candidate has mastered the industry standards tested for in the certification exam.
Leads to Higher Levels of Engagement
Studies have shown students who earn industry certifications are more engaged in the learning process. As students work through the certification process, they gain valuable perspective on how their education supports their career endeavors as they actively prepare for their future. Students with industry certifications are more likely to achieve higher GPAs, enroll in dual credit or advanced placement classes and earn a high school diploma. Industry certification earners have also been shown to have higher attendance rates and receive lower accounts of disciplinary actions. Read this report from the Florida Department of Education to learn more about the correlation between industry certification and high school student engagement.
Increases Opportunity for Employment
Not only can earning an industry certification help a student attain a long-term career in their desired field, it can also help a student gain employment experience during their educational career. Having an industry certification can help a student find part-time employment while they are still in school, and because they have a certification pertinent to a specific field or industry, they are more likely to find a position that is relevant to their future career goals. When certifications are listed on a resume, it makes it easier for employers to identify high-quality, well-prepared applicants. Finding qualified candidates reduces turnover and increases productivity, saving businesses time, energy, and money. Learn how earning industry certifications are leading to employment opportunities for Kentucky high school students in this case study.
Because industry certifications are based on real-world industry standards, students who earn certifications are more likely to experience academic and career success. Those who earn certifications often achieve higher grades, secure better employment opportunities and earn higher salaries. Visit our website to learn more about the value of industry certifications and the 16 certifications available on the iCEV testing platform.
