I completed the requisite training, had my experience, and took and passed my first (at that time) ABC exam. I’m one of those strange people that actually enjoy studying, so I immediately started working towards the next level of certification. Believe it or not, I was ridiculed by some of my coworkers.
“Why are you doing that?”
“It won’t do you any good.”
“You’re not going to get a raise, even if you do pass.”
Well, my mama had taught me to work to be the best I could be at whatever I was doing, so I persevered despite their discouragement. Lo and behold, I passed the test! I continued through the process to become certified at the highest level, much to the amusement of my coworkers, who still thought I was wasting my time.
Fast forward a few months. The manager of the Wastewater Department had retired, and the head operator at my facility was promoted, leaving an opening for a new head operator. Guess who was the only person in our organization with the level of certification required for the job? Yep! You got it! Me! I was the only one who had worked to go above the certification required by my position, so I was promoted over all of my erstwhile naysayers. They were not happy campers. I was prepared, and my preparation paid off with a promotion.
I would strongly encourage you if you are new in this field, or even if you’ve been around but never sought a higher level certification, GO FOR IT! Work towards higher-level certifications. You will have the personal satisfaction of achievement, and you will be prepared to move up when the opportunity presents itself.
“I will prepare, and someday my chance will come.” – Abraham Lincoln
