As Mike said, there are two certs from 3M. There are two others (there are others, but these are the more recognized, respected programs) (Professional Decal Application Association (PDAA, administered by SGIA), and Lowen Certified. Since 3M is the topic here, that's what I'll focus on. 3M Certified Graphics Installation Company and 3M Preferred Graphics Installer. I'll break them down, as many don't know the difference. We are a 3M Certified Graphics Installation Company, and PDAA Master Certfied.
3M Certified Graphics Installation Company
This is the original 3M Certified Installer program that is administered by the United Applications Standards Group (UASG - uasg.org). When all the stuff went down with the UASG/3M/Lowen last year, the programs changed a bit, and the 3M Certified Installation Company program was born. This is a program that is backed by 3M and administered by the UASG.
- A certification of the company
- Certifies business practices and requires adhering to a code of ethics
- Requies a minimum of three years in business
- Test administered in St Paul at 3M Facility by both 3M and UASG representatives
- Certifies technical ability and knowledge via a hands on test and written test
- Requires a W2 employee (NO subcontractors) to pass the test. An employee who has passed the test must be employed by the company to remain certified
- Requires onsite interview and site inspection prior to testing
- Requires annual dues, carrying liability insurance, and annual verification of employment of certified installer, insurance, adherance to code of ethics, etc
3M Preferred Graphics Installer
This program was created to provide a certificate to individuals versus companies. 3M wanted to increase its installer base, and offer individual certification, much like an ASE certification for a mechanic.
- Testing is offered at 3M's campus in St Paul.
- In addition, 3M may consider an applicant for 3M Preferred Graphics Installer program after the individual has passed the Lowen Certified Installer test offered in Hutchinson, Kansas
- Becoming Lowen Certified does not necessarily qualify for 3M Preferred Graphics Installer status.
- Certificate is held by the individual, not the company.
- Certifies technical ability and knowledge via a hands on test and written test
- No minimum requirement for time in business.
- Does not certify best business practices
One big criticism of the 3M Certified Graphics Installation Company program is that the company becomes certified, and then hires $8 an hour help that does not meet the standards. This has been, and is a problem as far as I can see. Likewise, I've seen companies hire subcontractors that aren't worth a damn. Personally, we ensure that our installers are up to par. This is a business choice, and something we do to ensure our own high standards.
You won't be able to supervise an employee. You can, however, both test on your own. This is what I did, not only to hedge my bet when it comes to passing the test, but I carry the UASG Certificate (as well as one of my employees), so I never have to worry about not having an installer on staff that's certified. On another note, if my employee were to leave and work for another company, the new company would not be able to claim certification unless they pass the test again, and meet all requirements for certification.
Neither certification has anything to do with 3M's warranty. I may suggest, however, that they may be less likely to claim "installer error" if you have demonstrated your ability through testing.
As you're seeing now, certain clients and program require certification. Many, many people here see no value in a certification. This has been argued countless times, and good for them. Most customers don't care. To others, it may be a great selling point. Others may require it.
Heyskull: I highly doubt you received any certification after what you described happened. A certification is not someone telling you how to do your job. That would be training. A certification is a demonstration of your ability to adhere to certain practices.
Generally, it takes a couple of months to get certified, so I'd say submit your application and get your shoulder fixed up in the meantime. It takes a while to get the application submitted, references checked, onsite interview completed, and then you get to schedule the hands on and written tests.
Who knows how often you'll get called on for these VW wraps.. could be huge.. might not be. Either way, if your client is forced to find another installer because you don't get certified, you'll probably lose the rest of your business with them.
