June 17, 2022 by Brett Gallagher Achieving a professional certification from SME sets you apart from the thousands of other talented men and women in manufacturing. Today, manufacturing engineers come in all forms, but those holding a Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) certification are recognized and respected for their expertise throughout the industry. Getting a CMfgE certification makes you more than another factory engineer. It transforms you into a high-value commodity to your employer and makes you among the most sought-after individuals in the industry. Credibility In The Workplace Longtime SME member Steve Marth, CMfgE, LBC, a senior manufacturing engineer for Peloton Interactive, offers insight into how his professional certifications from SME — Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) and Lean Bronze Certified (LBC) — have enriched his manufacturing career. In fact, when Steve first interviewed at Peloton, his Lean Bronze project portfolio had a significant impact on the hiring decision because it documented Steve's expertise and lean journey. Marth explains, “certification offers employers evidence of excellence in manufacturing engineering and sets qualified candidates apart from others.” Who Benefits from CMfgE? The CMfgE designation is appropriate for manufacturing engineers with advanced experience. Individuals in manufacturing who are in leadership positions or have supported manufacturing practices in their organizations are prime candidates for this certification. Those pursuing this certification are expected to have a minimum of eight years of manufacturing-related education and factory engineering experience – with a minimum of four years of work experience. Certified Manufacturing Technologists can qualify with seven combined years of manufacturing-related education and work experience.For those manufacturing engineers considering the CMfgE certification, SME offers a wide range of assessment tools such as the Technical Body of Knowledge and the Technical Competency Model. The body of knowledge is an outline of topics covered on the certification exam, ranging from manufacturing foundations and automated systems and controls to business acumen. The competency model describes the knowledge, skills and abilities required by manufacturing engineers. SME also provides candidates a list of recommended reading materials, which is a highly important test-preparation source. What’s Next? Once the materials have been mastered, candidates have one year from their application dates to take the CMfgE exam. Offered online and in paper/pencil formats, the exam is a four-hour, open book and open notes exam consisting of approximately 180 multiple-choice questions related to the Technical Body of Knowledge. All exam questions are taken from the recommended reading materials. A 60% score or higher is required to pass the exam. Those who do not initially pass the test can reapply to retake it 30 days after receiving exam results.Whether you are a new factory engineer or a seasoned professional, certification demonstrates that you have the knowledge to make a difference in manufacturing. Advance your career to the next level by earning your CMfgE certification.
