eating-paperWhy, it was only a few days ago you were enticed to get your Certified SolidWorks Professional (CSWP) certificate. Now, however, SolidWorks is elevating the enticement by offering the exam to current subscription customers for the rest of 2009… for FREE.

Customers wishing to take the exams must redeem their code no later than December 31st, 2009, and all the exams must be completed by July 31st, 2010.Mike’s CAD Blog

Where do you get the code?

Log into the Customer Portal and the offer will be on the right hand side. Here’s more details on the various SolidWorks Certification Exams offered. Need some reasons to get it? Here’s what some CSWP’s say:

Jeff Mirisola asked the CSWP LinkedIN group
Does being a CSWP help?
Do you feel that being a CSWP has helped you in your career? If so, how?

Yes, I get my foot in the door much easier now. – James A.

It Helps me stand out from the other 20 some students graduating with the same degree as mine. – Kyle M.

For me it demonstrates a recognizable level of proficiency to my peers. – Shannon R

It recently played a factor in a job change for me. I was recognized above other candidates for my skills in SolidWorks. – Ryan N

It simply gives you more opportunities, and the process of studying for and taking the test is very beneficial for your SW skills. – Bruce B.

I teach solidworks for a VAR and i can tell you that there is a big difference between a student who is certified VS a student who is not. – Jaime E

It shows potential employers that you are actively staying educated in your field to be the best out there. – Chris M.

One thing some point out is that the CSWP exam is only to test your 3D CAD skills in SolidWorks. It doesn’t do anything to prove your design and engineering skills. That may be the biggest misconception about what a certificate like this proves. Your biggest asset is going to be your industry experience, your knowledge of design practices and your engineering abilities. The CSWP will add enormously to that.

If you have a LinkedIn profile check out the CSWP Group. With over 140 members it’s becoming a great place to connect with other CSWP’s!

Author

Josh is founder and editor at SolidSmack.com, founder at Aimsift Inc., and co-founder of EvD Media. He is involved in engineering, design, visualization, the technology making it happen, and the content developed around it. He is a SolidWorks Certified Professional and excels at falling awkwardly.