What is a Certified Performance Technologist?

Until the development of the Certified Performance Technologist (CPT) designation, just about anyone could claim that they were a training professional. On the other side about the same time, training practitioners were asking for a credential to help them assess their ability, laser focus their professional development efforts, and receive recognition for their capabilities.

In response to these need, the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI) developed a program where individuals can apply to receive approval as the designation of Certified Performance Technologist (CPT). The program began in 2003 and since then, over one hundred training professionals have been certified in 23 countries.

As a charter CPT member since 2003, I am always interested in what is happening behind the scenes with the CPT program and its ongoing research efforts. According to a recent online ISPI-sponsored survey in 2008, among the 4070 respondents, over 75% of CPTs reside in the United States, with slightly more men CPT (56%) than women CPT (53%) members.

The most interesting fact brought out in this survey was related to CPT member's salaries. Overall CPT salaries ranges were at least $20,000 more as compared to the non-CPT respondents in the survey. This is very significant since the training salary range for non-CPT members (in the United States) capped at $100K while the CPT professionals started at $100K and topped at $120K.

Having ISPI, one of the most respected names in the training industry, associated with a training consultant brings clout to a resume. You will notice that on many job descrptions for upper level training positions, they may require a certification in addition to a degree. This extra requirement shows the company is savvy to the importance of ongoing professional development.

Another interesting aspect of CPT membership is that training professionals with 16 years or more experience were more likely be to members as opposed to non-CPT members. This is a good indicator to companies hiring CPT professionals as employees or consultants, that they are well seasoned professionals.

What is ISPI?
Founded in 1962, the International Society for Performance Improvement is the leading international association dedicated to improving productivity and performance in the workplace. ISPI represents more than 10,000 international and chapter members throughout the United States, Canada, and 40 other countries.

The ISPI mission is to develop and recognize the proficiency of our members and advocate the use of Human Performance Technology at annual events, publications and membership organizations across the globe.

I believe that my personal membership in the ISPI organization is an investment in my ongoing professional development in the training field.

If you are seeking training advice from a professional, my recommendation is to do a Google search on the word CPT and contact those individualas for the training answers you seek.