CAP: Certified Automation Professional

A CAP is a certification offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). It proves an individual’s expertise in industrial automation and control systems engineering.

Certified Automation Professionals possess expert technical knowledge and skills in the following areas or topics related to automation systems:

• Feasibility studies – ability to scope and justify automation system projects
• Definition – the ability to identify customer requirements
• System design – ability to conceptually design control and information systems, encompassing both hardware and software
• Development – ability to develop and implement automation system software
• Deployment – ability to install, test, and start automation systems
• Operation and maintenance – ability to develop and implement strategies for long-term automation system support

A CAP certification is not mandatory, but is internationally recognized. As such, the certification often plays a major role in organizations operating within the manufacturing, energy, and pharmaceutical industries, as well as any others where automation is often used to optimize processes and improve efficiency.

CAP candidates must meet several education- and work-related requirements:

• Possess a four-year degree in a “technical or technology-related field,” such as engineering, chemistry, physics or math
• Have at least five years of work experience in automation

Those without degrees must have 10 years of work experience, including two in a managerial or supervisory position in a non-administrative role.

CAP certifications are valid for three years. To recertify, individuals must pay a recertification fee, as well as prove that they have earned 150 “Professional Development Points (PDPs)”  by participating in or contributing to continuous improvement-related activities.

These activities could include publishing reviewed papers, attending courses, developing patents, or earning a PhD or master’s degree. All approved methods of earning PDPs are outlined within the ISA’s Continuing Development Program.

A CAP certification offers several benefits to organizations and individuals. Some key advantages include the following.

Earning a CAP may pose several challenges to organizations. They include the following.

Here are a few tips for preparing for a CAP certification:

• Familiarize yourself with CAP certification requirements
• Study the CAP Job Analysis Blueprint
• Study the CAP Body of Knowledge
• Use the ISA-provided materials for CAP exam preparation

For more information and guidance on CAP certification, you can refer to the following resources:

International Society of Automation. The ISA’s website offers a wealth of information related to CAP certification, including eligibility requirements, materials for exam preparation, and more.

Manufacturing skills matrix. AG5 offers a free manufacturing skills matrix. You can use it to identify, track, and manage skills and certifications such as the CAP in your organization.

MES skills matrix template. AG5’s free MES skills matrix template will also prove valuable in managing skills and certifications such as the CAP.

• International Society of Automation