Kyle,
I somewhat disagree with the some other prevailing opinions here in this
thread you started. Let me give you my take on it, fwiw, if you've got a few
minutes. It seems to me that they are missing a point - that sure, it isn't
about supplanting any formal education requirements or on the job
experience, or ability to perform the assigned tasks - those important
milestones are and should be assumed (for this discussion) already in place
from the beginning or you wouldn't hire, or get hired, in the first place.
Its' an entirely different issue of continuing education for the exact tool
you are using - the non-AIA credit type (although some, maybe). I took the
testing back at AU for ADT2005 three years ago and passed. It was tough. I
also took the cert prep class @ AU, prior to the exam. I'm a one man shop,
but I sometimes consult & teach - so I wanted it for that reason. Has it
ever helped, for sure. Has anyone ever asked for it (or proof of) - no.
Will I retest in the future? Maybe? Nevertheless, I say if you take very
adept architects and give them highend tools and the proper training and
they are self motivated to continue that quest - it is a very potent
combination.
I also think you are on the right track, with respect to cert for
ADT/ACA ..... especially for yourself (as the arch. Cad mgr. / job captain)
and for any other real "go getter" types in your office, who take their job
seriously and natural lead takers. The certification in and by only itself
is nothing, but it will make anyone who takes the step to goto a prep course
(highly recommended!) and the exam testing itself - more well rounded in the
understanding some of the finer points of the software. The cert process is
going to force anybody who attempts it, to really dive into the software and
KNOW its' many area's of coverage that they might otherwise skate by, and
believe me in this new BIM era of ObjectBased building design software like
ADT/ACA (or Revit) there are many areas that can be explored, and in depth.
From Areas& Area groups, Curtain Walls, & Display Reps all the way to
Scheduling & Rendering there's allot of possibilities packed in these Arch
BIM packages these days - actually far more than any one person could ever
hope to be a real expert in ALL phases - so you do need a team that's on the
same page.
It boils down to more of a matter of those who want to take the software
(and the office) much further down the road then just the typical; you
know - I can draw walls, doors, and windows, and the raw basics with BIM.
Providing true added value to an employer - by wringing much, much, more
useful data out of the building model & very same software package than the
status quo (which the masses of employees seem to think equates to job
security). Do you wear it like a badge? No, the opposite, you matter of
factly go about getting more & better done in less time, all the while
kicking butt in the team aspect and taking no prisoners.
For what it's worth,
Good luck,
--
Kevin Anderson
www.KAddAssociates.com