Production Manager Certifications

Explore the top Production Manager certifications that are important to a successful career.

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Getting Certified as a Production Manager

In the multifaceted world of manufacturing and production, the role of a Production Manager is critical to the efficiency and success of operations. Certifications serve as a testament to a Production Manager's expertise, providing a competitive edge in the industry and a clear demonstration of their commitment to excellence.

This guide will steer you through the diverse landscape of certifications available, ensuring that you can identify the ones that will most effectively enhance your skills and advance your career. By understanding the strategic value of these certifications, you can make informed decisions that not only benefit your professional development but also contribute to the broader goals of your organization.

Top Production Manager Certifications

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)
Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)
Project Management Professional (PMP)
Project Management Institute (PMI)
Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE)
American Society for Quality (ASQ)
Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)
Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)
Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)
Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)
Lean Six Sigma Certification
International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC)
Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE)
Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME)
APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)
Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)
Six Sigma Green Belt Certification
American Society for Quality (ASQ)
Six Sigma Black Belt Certification
American Society for Quality (ASQ)

Best Production Manager Certifications

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certification Provider
Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)
Best For
Supply Chain Analyst, Inventory Manager, Production Planner, Operations Manager, Materials Manager, Demand Planner
Description
The Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) credential, offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), is a prestigious certification for supply chain professionals. It focuses on mastering essential concepts, strategies, and terminology related to demand management, procurement, supplier planning, material requirements planning, capacity planning, sales and operations planning, master scheduling, supplier relationships, quality control, and continuous improvement. Earning the CPIM demonstrates expertise in production and inventory management, enhancing career prospects and operational efficiency within organizations.
Includes Certification
Yes
Time to Complete
150-175 hours
Price
Prerequisites
  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required; a bachelor's degree is recommended but not mandatory.
  • Relevant work experience in production and inventory management or a related field is recommended but not required.
  • Membership in the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) is required to pursue the CPIM certification.
  • Completion of the CPIM Part 1 and Part 2 exams is required to earn the certification.
  • Adherence to the ASCM Code of Ethics is required for certification candidates and holders.
  • Continuing education is required for certification maintenance, which involves earning a designated number of professional development points every five years.

    • Project Management Professional (PMP)

    Certification Provider
    Project Management Institute (PMI)
    Best For
    Project Managers, Senior Project Managers, Program Managers, Project Coordinators with significant project management experience, IT Project Managers, Project Management Office (PMO) Directors
    Description
    The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), is a globally recognized credential that validates a professional's expertise in managing projects. It focuses on the five key domains of project management: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, and closing. Earning the PMP demonstrates mastery of the skills, strategies, and knowledge necessary to lead and direct projects across various industries, ensuring successful project delivery and enhanced career opportunities.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    60-120 hours
    Price
    $555
    Prerequisites
  • A secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree, or the global equivalent)
  • 7,500 hours leading and directing projects
  • 35 hours of project management education, or CAPM Certification
  • Alternatively, a four-year degree
  • 4,500 hours leading and directing projects (with a four-year degree)
  • Agreement to adhere to the PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct

    • Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE)

    Certification Provider
    American Society for Quality (ASQ)
    Best For
    Quality Managers, Organizational Excellence Leaders, Senior Process Improvement Specialists, Operations Managers with strategic oversight, Quality Management System Consultants, Senior Project Managers with process improvement focus
    Description
    The Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) is a prestigious certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed for professionals who lead and champion process-improvement initiatives. This certification validates expertise in developing and managing quality systems, facilitating teams, and driving organizational strategy and innovation. Candidates will demonstrate proficiency in a broad range of competencies including leadership, strategic plan development, and management of human resources, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of organizational excellence.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A minimum of 10 years of work experience in one or more of the areas of the Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence Body of Knowledge.
  • A minimum of five years of this experience must be in a decision-making position, defined as the authority to define, execute, or control projects/processes and to be responsible for the outcome.
  • This may or may not include management or supervisory positions.
  • If you have completed a degree from a college, university, or technical school with accreditation accepted by ASQ, part of the 10-year experience requirement will be waived, as follows (only one of these waivers may be claimed):
  • Diploma from a technical or trade school—one year will be waived.
  • Associate degree—two years waived.
  • Bachelor’s degree—four years waived.
  • Master’s or doctorate—five years waived.
  • Candidates must have their educational and work experience documentation reviewed and approved by ASQ before taking the exam.

    • Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

    Certification Provider
    Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)
    Best For
    Supply Chain Manager, Inventory Control Specialist, Production Planner, Operations Manager, Materials Manager, Demand Planner
    Description
    The Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) credential, offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), is a prestigious certification for supply chain professionals. It focuses on critical strategies for managing and streamlining production and inventory operations. The CPIM program equips candidates with the ability to understand and evaluate production and inventory activities within a company's global operations, enhancing efficiency and optimizing resource management. Ideal for professionals seeking to improve their job performance and advance their careers in supply chain management.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    300-400 hours
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required; however, a bachelor's degree or equivalent is recommended.
  • No specific work experience is required, but it is beneficial to have some background in supply chain, operations, procurement, materials management, or another related field.
  • Membership in the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) is recommended but not mandatory for certification.
  • Completion of the CPIM Part 1 and Part 2 exams is required to earn the certification.
  • Preparation for the exams typically involves self-study, instructor-led courses, or online courses offered by ASCM or its authorized partners.
  • Maintaining the certification requires earning a designated number of professional development points every five years.

    • Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

    Certification Provider
    Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)
    Best For
    Supply Chain Manager, Operations Manager, Logistics Manager, Supply Chain Analyst, Procurement Specialist, Demand Planner
    Description
    The Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) credential, offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), is a globally recognized certification for supply chain professionals. It equips candidates with the expertise to effectively manage global supply chain activities, including the design, planning, execution, monitoring, and control of supply chain operations. The CSCP certification emphasizes the importance of streamlining operations through the integration of end-to-end supply chain networks, enhancing sustainability, and leveraging strategic supply chain management to drive organizational performance and competitive advantage.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    100-150 hours
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • Bachelor’s degree or the international equivalent in any field
  • At least 3 years of related business experience
  • In lieu of a degree, 5 years of supply chain related work experience
  • Agreement to abide by the ASCM Code of Ethics
  • Completion of the CSCP learning system modules and preparation materials
  • Passing score on the CSCP examination

    • Lean Six Sigma Certification

    Certification Provider
    International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC)
    Best For
    Quality Assurance Managers, Process Improvement Specialists, Operations Managers, Project Managers with process optimization focus, Manufacturing Engineers, Lean Coordinators
    Description
    The Lean Six Sigma Certification from the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC) is a globally recognized credential that validates an individual's expertise in the combined methodologies of Lean and Six Sigma. It focuses on equipping professionals with the skills to improve quality and efficiency in operational processes through waste reduction and defect minimization. The certification involves rigorous training and examination in various levels of proficiency, namely Yellow Belt, Green Belt, and Black Belt, each signifying a deeper mastery of these process improvement techniques.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • No formal education or experience prerequisites for the Yellow Belt certification.
  • For the Green Belt certification, some providers recommend prior knowledge of Lean Six Sigma tools or completion of the Yellow Belt certification.
  • For the Black Belt certification, it is recommended to have a Green Belt certification or at least three years of full-time experience in one or more areas of the Six Sigma Body of Knowledge.
  • Completion of training through an IASSC accredited provider or an equivalent training program that aligns with the IASSC Bodies of Knowledge is recommended but not mandatory.
  • Passing the IASSC certification exam for the respective belt level (Yellow, Green, or Black Belt).
  • There are no project completion requirements for taking the IASSC exams, unlike some other Six Sigma certification providers.

    • Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE)

    Certification Provider
    Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME)
    Best For
    Manufacturing Engineers, Production Managers, Operations Managers, Quality Assurance Engineers, Industrial Engineers, Process Improvement Specialists
    Description
    The Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) credential, offered by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME), is a prestigious certification for professionals in the manufacturing industry. It signifies a comprehensive understanding of manufacturing processes, technology integration, and problem-solving. Candidates must possess at least eight years of related experience or a combination of education and experience. The CMfgE certification requires passing a rigorous exam, demonstrating expertise in areas such as product development, manufacturing systems, operations, and quality assurance, positioning holders as leaders in the field.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A minimum of eight years of manufacturing-related experience, which can be a combination of work experience and education.
  • A Bachelor of Science degree in engineering or a related field can substitute for four years of the required experience.
  • For those without a Bachelor's degree, a two-year degree in a manufacturing-related field can substitute for two years of the required experience.
  • Passing a comprehensive examination that covers topics such as manufacturing processes, production systems, automation, and manufacturing management.
  • Agreement to adhere to SME's code of ethics.
  • Commitment to continuing education for maintaining the certification through a recertification process every three years.

    • APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

    Certification Provider
    Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)
    Best For
    Supply Chain Manager, Operations Manager, Logistics Manager, Demand Planning Analyst, Procurement Specialist, Supply Chain Consultant
    Description
    The APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) credential, offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), is a globally recognized certification for supply chain professionals. It equips candidates with the expertise to effectively manage global supply chain activities, including the design, planning, execution, monitoring, and control of supply chain operations. The CSCP program focuses on optimizing supply chain integration, collaboration, and technological innovation to improve efficiency and meet the demands of modern markets.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    100-150 hours
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A bachelor's degree or the international equivalent, or
  • At least three years of related business experience, or
  • An active CPIM, CFPIM, CIRM, SCOR-P, CPM, CSM, or CPSM designation, or
  • Completion of the ASCM Supply Chain Operations Reference Professional (SCOR-P) endorsement program.
  • Agreement to abide by the ASCM Code of Ethics.
  • Completion of the CSCP Learning System modules and preparation materials prior to taking the exam is highly recommended but not required.

    • Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

    Certification Provider
    American Society for Quality (ASQ)
    Best For
    Quality Assurance Analysts, Process Improvement Specialists, Manufacturing Engineers, Operations Managers, Project Managers, Lean Coordinators
    Description
    The Six Sigma Green Belt Certification from the American Society for Quality (ASQ) equips professionals with the skills to improve business processes and quality management. This certification focuses on the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology, lean manufacturing, and problem-solving techniques. Certified Green Belts are trained to lead projects, support Six Sigma Black Belts, and contribute to their organization's continuous improvement initiatives, making them valuable assets in various industries.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    60-100 hours
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • Three years of full-time, paid work experience in one or more areas of the Six Sigma Green Belt Body of Knowledge.
  • Work experience must be in a full-time, paid role. Paid intern, co-op, or any other course work cannot be applied toward the work experience requirement.
  • Completion of one or more Six Sigma projects with signed affidavits, or one completed project with a signed affidavit and three years of work experience.
  • Understanding of the Six Sigma Green Belt Body of Knowledge.
  • ASQ membership is not required for certification, but members can receive discounts on certification fees.
  • Passing the Six Sigma Green Belt certification exam, which consists of multiple-choice questions that measure comprehension of the Body of Knowledge.

    • Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

    Certification Provider
    American Society for Quality (ASQ)
    Best For
    Quality Manager, Process Improvement Manager, Operations Manager, Lean Six Sigma Consultant, Senior Project Manager, Manufacturing Engineer
    Description
    The Six Sigma Black Belt Certification from the American Society for Quality (ASQ) is a prestigious credential that signifies expertise in Six Sigma philosophy and principles, including supporting systems and tools. A Black Belt demonstrates team leadership, understands team dynamics, and assigns team member roles and responsibilities. Black Belts have a thorough understanding of all aspects of the DMAIC model in accordance with Six Sigma principles, have basic knowledge of lean enterprise concepts, and can identify non-value-added elements and activities. This certification requires a deep understanding of both the technical and managerial aspects of Six Sigma and is aimed at professionals seeking to lead projects and drive quality improvements within their organizations.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    130-180 hours
    Price
    $538 (members) / $788 (non-members)
    Prerequisites
  • Completion of two Six Sigma projects with signed affidavits, or one completed project with a signed affidavit and three years of work experience in one or more areas of the Six Sigma Black Belt Body of Knowledge.
  • A minimum of three years of full-time, paid work experience in one or more areas of the Six Sigma Black Belt Body of Knowledge.
  • Work experience must be in a full-time, paid role. Paid intern, co-op, or any other coursework cannot be applied towards the work experience requirement.
  • Educational waivers are not offered for the Six Sigma Black Belt certification.
  • Understanding of Six Sigma tools and methods, including the DMAIC model and lean enterprise concepts.
  • Passing the ASQ Six Sigma Black Belt certification exam.

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    Benefits of Having a Production Manager Certification

    Professional Validation and Expertise: A Production Manager certification is a mark of your professional dedication and proficiency in the field. It demonstrates to employers, colleagues, and clients that you possess a comprehensive understanding of production management principles and practices, validating your expertise and setting you apart from those without certification.

    Comprehensive Skill Enhancement: Certifications offer a deep dive into the core competencies required for production management, including lean manufacturing, quality control, and supply chain management. By obtaining a certification, you ensure that your skill set is broad, current, and aligned with industry standards, enabling you to tackle the multifaceted challenges of production environments.

    Career Growth and Mobility: In the competitive landscape of production management, a certification can be a critical lever for career advancement. It can significantly enhance your resume, making you a more attractive candidate for promotions, higher-level management roles, and new job opportunities within the manufacturing and production sectors.

    Access to Professional Networks: Certification programs often come with the added benefit of connecting you to a network of professionals and experts in the field. This community can be a rich resource for collaboration, mentorship, and the exchange of innovative ideas, which can be instrumental in your professional development and career progression.

    Confidence in Leadership and Decision-Making: Earning a certification can bolster your confidence in your ability to lead production teams and make informed decisions. The knowledge and competencies gained through certification reassure both you and your employer of your capability to optimize production processes and drive operational excellence, thereby enhancing your leadership presence in the workplace.

    How to Choose the Best Production Manager Certification

    Selecting the right certification as a Production Manager is a strategic move that can significantly enhance your professional capabilities and marketability. In the dynamic field of production management, certifications can serve as a testament to your expertise, dedication to continuous improvement, and commitment to industry standards. This section provides you with a structured approach to choosing a certification that not only aligns with your professional development but also positions you as a leader in the field. Here are five key considerations to guide your decision-making process:
    • Industry-Specific Knowledge: Evaluate certifications that offer specialized knowledge pertinent to your industry, whether it's manufacturing, technology, or consumer goods. A certification that provides deep insights into industry-specific processes, regulations, and challenges will make you a more effective and informed manager in your field.
    • Leadership and Operational Excellence: Consider certifications that emphasize leadership skills and operational excellence. Look for programs that cover topics such as lean manufacturing, quality management systems, and supply chain optimization, which are crucial for driving efficiency and productivity in production environments.
    • Professional Credibility: Investigate the credibility and recognition of the certifying body. Choose certifications from organizations that are well-regarded within the production management community, as this will enhance the perceived value of your credential in the eyes of employers and colleagues.
    • Skills Enhancement: Identify certifications that will help you develop new skills or enhance existing ones. Whether it's project management, resource planning, or advanced analytics, select a certification that fills gaps in your skill set and keeps you competitive in the job market.
    • Return on Investment: Assess the potential return on investment (ROI) of the certification. Consider the time, cost, and effort required to obtain the certification against the potential career benefits, such as higher salary, promotion opportunities, and increased job security. Choose a certification that offers the best ROI in terms of your career advancement.

    Preparing for Your Production Manager Certification

    As a Production Manager, pursuing a certification can be a significant career milestone that demonstrates your commitment to excellence and your expertise in the field. However, the journey to certification is not just about earning a credential—it's about expanding your knowledge base, refining your skills, and preparing to meet the challenges of modern production environments. To ensure that you are ready to excel in your certification and beyond, a deliberate and thoughtful approach to preparation is essential. Here's how you can effectively prepare for your Production Manager certification and set yourself up for success.

    Understand the Certification Scope: Begin by thoroughly researching the specific Production Manager certification you are interested in. Understand the scope of the certification, including the topics covered, the format of the exam, and the competencies it aims to validate. This will help you identify the areas where you need to focus your study efforts and ensure that you are not caught off guard by any aspect of the certification process.

    Develop a Comprehensive Study Plan: Once you have a clear understanding of the certification requirements, create a comprehensive study plan that outlines what you need to learn and the timeline for doing so. Break down the content into smaller, more digestible segments, and set aside regular study sessions in your calendar. Consistency is key, so make sure your study plan is realistic and fits within your existing commitments.

    Leverage Diverse Learning Resources: Don't limit yourself to just one type of study material. Utilize a variety of resources such as textbooks, online courses, webinars, and industry publications to get a well-rounded view of the subject matter. Diverse learning resources can cater to different learning styles and help reinforce your understanding of complex concepts.

    Participate in Industry Networks: Engage with other professionals in the field of production management. Join industry associations, attend conferences, and participate in online forums and social media groups. Networking with peers can provide you with support, insights into industry best practices, and advice from those who have successfully obtained their certifications.

    Apply Knowledge Practically: Theory is important, but the ability to apply what you've learned is what truly makes a difference. Look for opportunities to implement new techniques and concepts in your current role. Whether through simulations, volunteering for new projects, or proposing improvements in your workplace, practical application will reinforce your learning and demonstrate the real-world value of the certification content.

    Practice with Mock Exams: Familiarize yourself with the certification exam format by taking practice tests. This will not only help you assess your readiness but also reduce exam-day anxiety. Analyze your practice test results to identify areas where you need further study, and adjust your study plan accordingly.

    Seek Feedback and Mentorship: Don't hesitate to ask for feedback from colleagues, mentors, or instructors.

    Certification FAQs for Production Managers

    Is getting a Production Manager certification worth it?

    The worth of a Production Manager certification hinges on your career objectives, industry sector, and the complexity of the production environments you aim to manage. For novices, it can lay a solid foundation in production principles, process optimization, and leadership, which are crucial for a successful start. For seasoned professionals, a certification can signal to employers your dedication to industry best practices and your proactive approach to evolving production technologies and methodologies.

    Certifications can also provide a competitive edge in the job market, showcasing a formal endorsement of your skills and knowledge. In industries where production efficiency and quality are paramount, such credentials may be highly valued and could potentially lead to career advancement opportunities.

    Do you need a certification to get a job as a Production Manager?

    Certifications are not strictly required to become a Production Manager, but they can enhance your resume, particularly if you're new to the field or lack extensive experience in production management. A certification can validate your expertise and commitment to the profession, serving as a testament to your understanding of industry standards and practices.

    However, employers often prioritize hands-on experience, leadership skills, and a proven ability to deliver results within a manufacturing or production environment. A blend of practical experience, strong managerial competencies, and a relevant certification can significantly bolster your profile as a candidate for a Production Manager position.

    Can Production Manager certifications help pivoters make the transition into Operations from another career path?

    Yes, Production Manager certifications can be a significant asset for those shifting from a different career into production management. These certifications typically encompass core industry practices, leadership techniques, and operational strategies, equipping career changers with essential knowledge. They showcase a proactive approach to understanding the production environment and can signal to employers a serious commitment to mastering the role. Additionally, the community and professional connections formed during certification courses can provide support and opportunities in the new field.
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