NADCA: Certified Die Casting Technician

The North American Die Casting Association is a trade association for the die casting industry in North America. It provides services such as industry advocacy, education, certification programs, technical support, and networking and educational events to industry professionals.

The NADCA’s certification program is open to any individual interested in proving proficiency in various areas of die casting. It consists of three levels, with level two being three separate certifications:

• Level I – Certified Die Casting Technician
• Level II – Maintenance, Process, and Tooling
• Level III – Master of Die Casting

Certification is not mandatory, nor does it offer successful candidates with a license, instead only acting as proof of proficiency and knowledge in die casting.

To progress through each level of the NADCA certification course, candidates must complete “Job Function Kits” available through the NADCA website. These kits consist of online courses relating to areas of die casting such as:

• Advanced technologies
• Casting process
• Machine operator
• Melting and handling
• Die care and maintenance
• Energy management
• Tool design
• Production employee safety

The exact courses that a candidate must register for and attend depend on the level of the NADCA certification program. For example, for a “Process” certification, candidates must attend courses focused on die setup, casting process, post-processing, and quality. For full course information, visit NADCA’s website.

Earning a Level III – Master of Die Casting certification, however, requires candidates to earn a Level I and all three Level II certifications, as it “encompasses all aspects of the die casting operation, from customer requirements to final shipping.” This means, to earn a Level III certification, candidates must attend all 22 online courses available through the NADCA’s “Job Kits.” They also must have three years of industry experience.

The cost of a NADCA certification varies, as the price of NADCA’s “Job Kits” differ depending on the area of focus. These prices range between USD $200-1,000.

A NADCA certification is valid for three years, after which time candidates must prove that they have been pursuing continuing education courses or workshops from NADCA itself or from other accredited institutions.

Employees with NADCA certifications offer several benefits to organizations. Some key advantages include the following.

Earning a NADCA certification may pose several challenges to employees. They include the following.

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

• Thoroughly review the NADCA certification program syllabus and understand its key areas, focusing on core concepts and practical applications relevant to die casting.
• Gain hands-on experience through workshops, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world die casting scenarios and challenges.
• Collaborate with peers or industry professionals preparing for the same certification, exchanging insights, discussing complex topics, and collectively solving practice problems for enhanced learning and retention.

For more information and guidance on the NADCA certification program, you can refer to the following resources.

NADCA. The North American Die Casting Association’s website is the most valuable resource for those interested in completing the certification program. There, you will find a wealth of information regarding the program, courses, cost, and more. 

Manufacturing skills matrix. AG5 offers a free manufacturing skills matrix. You can use it to identify, track, and manage skills related to die casting – and therefore the NADCA certification program – in your organization.

North American Die Casting Association (NADCA).