Is there a Basic Engineering fundamentals certification course for folks with non-engineering background?

Question

I have a background in IT and Business. I want to learn engineering terminologies (e.g. material take-offs from drawings plan profile isometric). I want a certification course so I can include it in my resume. A certification similar to PMP(Program Management Professional) certification from PMI(Project Management Institute).

Answer 1

Sorry, I actually don't know of any. Might not be a bad idea, although I'm not a fan of "just knowing the words". I've seen too many people try to fake that they understand something through experience and get themselves into real trouble. At the same time the need to better communicate is a great help.

Also, this is just my opinion, but quick "certification courses" are great on paper but really mean very little even on a resume. At best they only serve as a potential topic to discuss during an interview. This can lead you into trouble if you try to fake it and are challenged by a knowing interviewer. It can also land you a job that you really weren't qualified for if you do manage to succeed in faking it. Worst case, with too many certifications and not enough emphasis on actual job skills and accomplishments they can actually make you look like you are trying to fluff us a resume. And I say this as an experienced manager responsible for hiring and even firing (which I hate) employees.

For the record the professional engineering exams are ONLY intended for someone with the education and skills necessary to be licensed as an engineer. The test takes hours and is very challenging. It's a waste of time and money for an IT or Business background with no engineering training or experience whatsoever.

Answer 2

Your local Technical Institute or local Trade School may have such introductory courses or may be able to direct you a school which does. Certifications vary from state -to -state.
Depending on the type of materials you will be dealing with, you may want to concentrate on Electrical terminology , or Mechanical, as the case may be.

Answer 3

There is the FE exam, (formerly known as the EIT exam). Obviously, this certification is for engineers only, I do not know of any exam for engineering certification for non-engineers.