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What Is CPIM Certification?

Posted by [email protected] on Oct. 10, 2022  /  Subscribe 0

Working in logistics can be a highly lucrative career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for a logistics professional was $77,030 in 2021. Keep in mind that this is just a median, meaning some logisticians make less, and some make way more. One way to increase your salary as a logistics worker is to obtain a CPIM certification.

So, what is CPIM certification? CPIM stands for Certified in Production and Inventory Management. This certification can prepare you for leadership roles within the supply chain industry.

Who needs to become a CPIM professional, and what kinds of benefits can this certification offer you? We are answering these questions and more in this guide, so keep reading!

What Is CPIM Certification?

The Certified in Production and Inventory Management certification can set you up for a higher-paying job in the supply chain industry. The program teaches you to understand inventory demand, logistical risk, and how to handle supply chain disruptions.

To complete the certification program, you can complete a self-study program, sign up for an instructor-led course, or choose a hybrid option.

The program has two parts that you must complete before taking the exams. Yes, you read that right—you have to pass two exams to get your certification. The first exam will cover part one of the certification program, while the second exam will cover part two. You must pass the first exam in order to sit for the second one.

The exams consist of 150 questions each. These exams are timed; you only have three and a half hours to complete each test.

Another thing to keep in mind is that you have to take and pass both exams within three years of each other. Failing to take the second exam within three years of the date you passed the first would mean you have to start the process over again and retake the first exam.

What's On the CPIM Exams?

Each exam tests different subjects. The first exam will test the fundamentals of supply chain management. Again, you must pass this exam before moving on to the next one.

The second exam tests the following topics:

• Resource management
• Resource planning
• Scheduling and planning
• Control and operations execution

You can learn everything you need to know to pass these exams in study programs, which are available online.

How Much Does CPIM Certification Cost?

The cost you pay for the CPIM certification program depends on whether or not you are a member of the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). If you are a member, you can pay as little as $1,860  for the self-study program and registration for both exams.

Click the link to learn more about the costs of the CPIM certification.

Who Needs to Get Certified in CPIM?

The best thing about the CPIM certification is that anyone can pursue it. You do not have to have a college degree, and you do not need logistics industry work experience to get started.

This fact about the CPIM certification is unique compared to other supply chain industry certifications. It is the only certification offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) that does not require a college degree.

A CPIM certification, then, is an excellent choice for entry-level professionals and people who want to transition to a career in logistics. It is also great for current professionals looking to level up their skills, including:

• Supply chain management professionals
• Inventory and production planning professionals
• Materials management professionals
• Buyers
• Consultants

The certification program applies to so many roles because it teaches professionals nearly all aspects of supply chain functions. So, the real question is: who doesn't need to get certified in CPIM?

The Top CPIM Benefits

Getting the CPIM certification is good for business, but it's also a smart move for your career. Here's why.

Higher Pay

Obtaining your CPIM certification has the potential to increase your annual salary by as much as 10%. So, let's say that you currently earn the median annual salary of a logistician: $77,030. If you earn the CPIM designation, you could get a raise of more than $7,000, bringing your total annual salary to $84,733.

Compare this wage to the median annual salary in the US, which was only $54,132 in the second quarter of 2022.

Improved Hireability

CPIM certification can also improve your career prospects. You can increase your hiring potential by as much as 65%.

Logistics industry professionals are already in high demand. The BLS forecasts that jobs in this sector will see a whopping 28% growth over the next ten years, adding over 54,000 new jobs to the market during the same period.

Compare that to the national average job growth outlook, which is a minuscule 0.5%.

More Opportunities

So, you currently work in the logistics industry and think a CPIM certification won't do you much good. But consider this: earning this certification will demonstrate your knowledge and skills to your employer. Additionally, you will be more likely to receive raises, promotions, and additional opportunities.

This certification is especially helpful if you ultimately want to work a job in management.

Get Your CPIM Certification from ASCM

So, to recap: what is CPIM certification? It’s a professional program with few eligibility requirements and incredible benefits. These benefits include increased salary potential, better career prospects, and more opportunities at your current job.

Are you considering a CPIM certification? Joining the ASCM can help you get a discount on the cost of this certification program. Join the Houston ASCM Chapter and start taking advantage of the benefits of CPIM certification!

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