The What, Why and Who of Certifications

Maybe you’re thinking about going back to school to further your skills. Or gaining a certification in an in-demand area. Certifications can often be a game-changer, and they’re always far more affordable, and less time-intensive than any college degree.

What are certifications?
Certificate courses are designed to provide a specialized and practical education that focuses on specific skills required by a particular industry. Depending on the type of certificate, the classes may cover a broad overview of essential topics or delve deeper into specific practices to ensure that the learners have a thorough understanding of the field. These courses are tailored to provide learners with the actionable skills and knowledge required to succeed in their chosen profession.

Why gain a certification?
Certifications can be a great way to get a foot in the door. Whether on their own or in addition to a four-year degree, certifications will help demonstrate your knowledge of emerging technology and help you climb the ranks more quickly.

But much depends on your industry, and desired career path.

Who needs a certification?

• Information Technology – In the tech field, a certification will often be enough to land an entry-level job. Some employers even require certifications on top of four-year degrees. Certifications in cloud services and cybersecurity are some of the most sought-after programs throughout the industry. Just be aware, however, that even though some employers are suspending the degree requirement when hiring, the long-term odds favor those with college degrees.
  
  Explore the certification programs and other education options available for ManpowerGroup IT consultants. Learn more
   
• Manufacturing – Certifications in manufacturing can advance your skills and open doors into high-demand skilled technical positions. These are positions that bridge the gap between manufacturing processes and high-end digital capabilities, such as quality technician and maintenance technician. Here’s an overview of 12 popular certifications. ManpowerGroup offers career acceleration programs in manufacturing for our associates. Learn more
   
• Engineering – Many engineers obtain an undergraduate degree followed by licensure through the Fundamentals of Engineering exam, a master's degree, and a professional engineering license. Once established, you may want to consider industry-specific certifications to advance your career. Here are 9 industry-specific certifications for engineers.

Certifications are available for many other professions, including hospitality, retail management, and accounting. In an era where skilled labor is in short supply, earning a certificate makes more sense than ever.