Moving Forward with Professional Development – API ICP Recertification Requirements

Editor’s Note:  The author of this article, Andri Orphanides, will be speaking at a session called “ICP and CPDs: Nourishing Your Professional Growth” at the 2022 API Inspection & Mechanical Integrity Summit. The session is scheduled for August 9, 2022 at 1:30 PM CDT. Please refer to API’s program for more information

Introduction

“Why is API instituting Continued Professional Development (CPD) requirements to the recertification process for API 510, 570, and 653?” – this has been the most common question asked with the newly updated Individual Certification Programs (ICP) recertification requirements. The idea of adding continuing professional development to certification programs is not a novel idea. Many professional credentials ranging from engineering, to the medical or teaching professions, have criteria for professional development as part of their programs. In fact, the certification task group had considered the option of including CPD requirements early on but could not find consensus on feasible requirements.

Market fluctuations in the industry require employers to seek out a multifaceted talent pool, and the role of the inspector must develop and expand accordingly. The modern inspector must understand ever-evolving inspection techniques, damage mechanisms, as well as the business environment that drives decisions and judgements.

The concept of certified versus qualified, or newly-certified versus senior inspector, have been tossed around and discussed among industry experts for years. There is a paradigm shift occurring in the industry in which inspectors are not thought of as simply craft labor, but rather they should be well-rounded professionals with diverse skillsets. As with other professions, inspectors must constantly sharpen and hone their knowledge and skills.

Why Professional Development?

Professional development is a catch-all phrase that encompasses courses, classes, training, and educational initiatives designed to help an employee stay relevant and continue to be competent within their company or industry. Once in a job, many workers do not set aside time or get the opportunity to keep pace with changing technology or other demands. Through professional development, workers can hone and expand their skills to become better and more efficient workers. Investing in yourself is a beneficial way to help you meet career goals.

A 2021 ICP survey on member satisfaction shows that 82% of respondents believe the qualifications and corresponding exams for the programs are sufficient to gain entry, but the qualified inspector should hone skills and build knowledge over time.

How CPD Credits Were Established