Background
SpaceTEC Partners, Inc. (SPI) has partnered with experts in the field of Aerospace Coatings Application to develop a certification program for aircraft paint personnel which conforms to the recently published SAE specification AS7489. This certification demonstrates an individual possesses an understanding of the aircraft paint process, has core knowledge of coatings preparation and application, and understands a common language inherent to the technical attributes of aerospace coatings. This certification is stackable with additional 2-5 examinations (currently under development), which have practical examination requirements and are administered through SPI’s CertTEC division. Aerospace Coatings Applicator Specialist – Course 1 is highly recommended for aerospace paint supervisors, managers, and process engineering roles.
Exams Offered
- Aerospace Coatings Applicator Specialist – Course 1
- Aerospace Coatings Applicator Specialist Recertification
Exam Information and Requirements
To earn the ACAS certification, candidates must meet the training requirements outlined in SAE AS 7489, Section 3.1 and Appendix A.1.2.1 plus successfully pass the Course 1 written examination with a score of 84% or above. Training content/programs developed or administered directly by the technician’s employer, or that have not been approved by an authorized Certifying Agency, shall not be eligible to confer ACAS certification.
Recredentialing Requirement
ACAS certifications are valid for five (5) years from date of issuance. Additionally, as part of ISO 17024 accreditation, SpaceTEC Partners, Inc. (SPI) must be able to locate and verify the status of each certificate holder. In order to accomplish this contact information is requested prior to certification testing. The certificate holder will be notified of this requirement at the contact information provided 90 days prior to expiration.
The following are methods an individual may use to recertify:
1) Work Verification Method – verification of employment, accomplished by submission of a Work Verification Form, available on the SPI website, documenting work in the area of certification in at least 12 of the prior 36 months. Information provided must include contact information of a knowledgeable authority (supervisor, manager, Human Resources representative) other than the certificate holder for verification purposes.
2) Alternate Method – a minimum of 18.0 Alternate Recertification Credits (ARCs) accumulated anytime during the certification period. Supporting documentation is required and is subject to verification. ARC credits are approved upon evidence of continued growth in the field as determined by the SPI Certification Manager or designee. Activities which increase knowledge in the field of certification, such as professional development activities (seminars, continuing education courses, trade conferences), or any combination thereof, are eligible for ARCs. Each approved activity is granted ARCs values based on the SPI ARC table in the SPI Operations Manual. All alternate method activities must have been completed within the three-year recertification period to qualify.
3) Equivalent Knowledge Exam – certification holders may sit for an equivalent knowledge exam.
Once an individual’s certification expires, the certification will be suspended and notification sent to the last known physical and email address. If the suspension exceeds 12 months, the certification will be withdrawn and an examination equivalent to the initial certification examination will be required for recertification.
Note: Upon verification of a completed recertification method SPI will issue a new certificate.
SPI’s Recertification Policy not only documents procedures for renewal of the certification but also to suspend or withdraw certifications if necessary. This is important to maintain the integrity of the certification and to also ensure a candidate who’s certification has expired does not continue to represent themselves as certified.
Failure to resolve issues that resulted in suspension in a timely manner will result in withdrawal or reduction in the scope of the certification. The individual’s signature on the Code of Conduct at the time of certification provides an enforceable arrangement with the certified person in the event of suspension or withdrawal of certification. This also helps ensure the individual refrains from further promotion as certified while the certification is suspended or withdrawn.
