FAQs
Why do I want to be involved in this certification?
- CEP will establish and validate baseline knowledge for professionals in the areas of product knowledge, customer service, sales skills and soft skills. Certifications available for inside and outside sales, branch managers and warehouse managers. Recertification required every three years.
- CEP industry certification will help NAED members and their employees be recognized as experts within their industry.
- This certification, endorsed by the industry's leading association, will become the benchmark for industry knowledge, and will increase companies' (and employees') competitive edge.
Is CEP only for NAED member distributors?
- No. The Certified Electrical Professional certification program is designed for the electrical distribution professional whether a distributor or manufacturer. It is also open to non-NAED members since it is an industry wide certification. Manufacturers, distributors, NAED members, and non-NAED members have been involved in each phase of the CEP development. It is an industry program.
Is the CEP granted to the individual or the company?
- The Certified Electrical Professional designation stays with the individual. While the company may contribute to the training and exam fees, they will not hold the CEP designation.
Why is there a time requirement for each position?
- The Certified Electrical Professional certification is based upon mastery in the position. Studies show that a person cannot master a position without serving in that capacity.
Do I have to be currently in the position to take the exam?
- No, but you must fulfill the time requirements. (Please refer to the Get Certified page for CEP requirements.)
Will the information on my application be verified?
- Yes. Audits will be performed on applications to determine all requirements are met including years of service and education.
What do I need to know to pass the CEP exam?
- In short, you need to be a master in your position. To define what that looks like, we have conducted focus groups and industry surveys to create a list of knowledge and skills that will be tested on the exam. You can find the complete list on the Get Certified page.
Do I have to complete specific courses before I can take the exam?
- No. The Certified Electrical Professional is a certification program not dependent upon course work. There are no required or pre-requisite study materials to prepare for the CEP. You have a wide range of options in respect to study approaches and resources. You can assemble your own materials, use NAED support products and services or look for third party products. Use any or all of these options to meet your own personal study preferences. You can use the self-assessment to determine your personal needs.
Am I guaranteed to pass the exam by completing recommended courses?
- No. Courses are only a recommendation to prepare the individual and not a guarantee for success. Additional factors such as industry experience will also influence your success.
If I do not pass the exam can I take it again?
- Yes. The Certified Electrical Professional exam will be offered every six months at regional testing centers. Failing candidates will be informed of their score, the score required to pass the examination, and will be provided with a diagnostic report outlining their performance within each of the major content areas covered on the examination.
How are my courses tracked for recertification?
How does the CEP relate to the CSP certification?
- The CSP plays a key role in the development of sales representatives. The Certified Sales Professional (CSP) will be able to use their general sales knowledge and skills to become a Certified Electrical Professional. While the CSP is driven by sales skills, the CEP also incorporates industry and product knowledge as well as account management techniques.
How does EPEC relate to the CEP certification?
- EPEC graduates are well prepared for the product knowledge portion of the CEP exam. Since EPEC is such a far reaching certificate program, graduates will be able to concentrate on other areas including sales and account management requirements.
Can I dispute exam questions?
- There is a procedure for appeals which will be directed to the certification Appeals Committee.
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