Do I Need to be IPC Certified?

The IPC Association has served the electronic manufacturing industry since the late 1950s.  Through improving obstacles within the supply chain, formulating industry standards, and assisting with the industry’s advancement, IPC has opened doors to many ways people can advance in their careers. One of those opportunities is becoming IPC certified.

The Process of Becoming IPC Certified

IPC offers a wide variety of industry-related courses.  At EEI, we offer the most sought out certifications:

• IPC-A-610: Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies
• J-STD-001: Requirement for Soldered Electrical and Electronic Assemblies
• IPC/WHMA-A-620: Requirements and Acceptance for Cable and Wire Harness Assemblies
• IPC-7711/7721: Rework, Modification, and Repair fo Electronic Assemblies

To become IPC certified find a licensed IPC Standards Certification Center (https://www.ipc.org/certification-centers), and request a quote for the desired class.  Depending on the selected course, there are different requirements for exams and workmanship skills you will need to complete to be certified. Once certified, your IPC Certification is active for 2 years.

Pros of Having IPC Certification

Companies that have IPC Certified employees have a reputation of being both valuable and profitable. By obtaining an IPC certification you increase your chances of getting a job while pursuing employment opportunities.  Many companies in the industry look for candidates who currently hold an IPC certification (especially IPC-A-610 and J-STD-001).

When is IPC Certification not Needed?

Having an IPC Certification is always a benefit for an individual. For some companies depending on a work contract, a customer may or may not require the contractor to have their employees certified to IPC standards to build the product.  Some contracts will indicate the words “in accordance to” or a similar phrase meaning, the operator must be trained to a specific standard, but not required to be certified.  Another example when IPC certification is not needed is based on the type of product that is being produced.  If the product is part of life or light critical device, in most cases IPC certification is required for operators.

For questions regarding IPC certification and which standard is right for you, send us an email at eei@eeimfg.com, or send an inquiry on our website at www.eeimfg.com/contact-us