Share this“Why get certified? And is it important to renew?”
This question was raised recently at a lab animal science meeting. We asked Angie Heiser, Facility Manager, Center for Comparative Medicine at MGH Boston, to offer some reasons why certification or renewal might be a good career-related New Year’s resolution.
"Certification is the process through which an organization grants recognition to an individual, organization, process, service, or product that meets certain established criteria". ~Wikianswers
There are many reasons why individuals choose to become certified. Most important are to standardize knowledge and language in the lab animal field. Staff members have varying levels of education and job roles. A common language allows the animal care technician to report animal health concerns, for example, to the veterinarian without any misunderstanding; hence effective and efficient animal care. A percentage of animal care staff do not speak English as a first language. But certification ensures animal care is the same language regardless of the country of origin. Some individuals seek the professional designation as a badge of pride, accomplishment, and recognition. Yet others may be required to become certified as a job requirement, to raise their salary base, or to be promoted within their organization. Finally, but just as important, is for individuals to learn more about their job roles so they can have a broader understanding of where they fit into the wide spectrum. This leads to greater job satisfaction and longevity for those who may or may not choose higher education degree programs.
The American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) offers three voluntary certification levels following successful examination; Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT), Laboratory Animal Technician (LAT), and Laboratory Animal Technologist (LATG). Each certification level corresponds to a job role in the laboratory animal field ranging from animal care technician to veterinary/research technician to facility manager. One must meet education and experience qualifications to apply for the exams. Qualifications are then verified by the AALAS staff prior to sending a letter of confirmation to sit for the exam. A fee is charged for the application to support processing. Once confirmation is received by the applicant, 90 days are allowed to schedule the exam.
The exam levels are supported by study materials that are compiled by the Education Resource Committee (ERC). These resources include the online AALAS Learning Library (ALL), manuals, workbooks, flashcards, and practice quizzes/exams on CD. The exam questions are constructed, evaluated, and determined to be properly referenced and legally defensible by the Certification and Registry Board (CRB). Most local branches offer preparatory classes and many institutions support lunchtime study groups. The exam is administered via computer at a third party independent testing facility. The exam “pass-or-fail” result is posted immediately following completion before you leave the testing facility. If one fails, a letter is sent outlining the areas to reinforce if one plans to re-take the exam. A passing score earns one a certificate and a “registered” status for two years. The certification remains valid indefinitely. To maintain a registered status, one must complete continuing education requirements.