NIMS Partners with OMIC to Develop Metrology Standards and Certification

The National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) and the Oregon Manufacturing Innovation Center – Research & Development (OMIC R&D) have united to define a set of Metrology standards and to develop a Metrology certification process. Metrology, the study of measurement, has far-reaching applications in the manufacturing industry. The ability to compare and verify a physical part against its CAD model is in high demand, and that demand is predicted to increase.

A Global Industry Analysts, Inc. report, “Metrology Software – Global Strategic Business Report,” stated that the North American 3D metrology market, valued at $482 million in 2014, will grow to $726.8 million by 2020. Dimensional metrology is used widely in industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, electronics, pharmaceutical, etc. Quality control jobs, like that of a Quality Technician or Manufacturing Quality Manager, are not currently being filled fast enough to meet demand.

Montez King, executive director of NIMS, said, “NIMS is proud to work with OMIC R&D to provide a benchmark for competency within the Metrology field. These standards and the certification process will allow students, employees, and trainers to identify the skills required in high-demand quality control occupations.”

Craig Campbell, Executive Director of the Oregon Manufacturing Innovation Center – Research and Development said: “An often underappreciated but critical part of manufacturing is the ability to measure.  This is especially important in metals manufacturing where failure to measure not only the end product, but throughout the machining process can result in products that do not meet specifications resulting in substantial waste in time, labor, and material. This partnership with NIMS will provide a clear standard for training in dimensional measurement that industry can rely on.  I am excited about the impact this will have on manufacturing!”

The skills and certification metrics will be defined by compiling and comparing available metrology reference material, such as job descriptions, occupational duties, and performance requirements. Once this is completed, companies and educational organizations will be recruited to pilot the credentials. NIMS will collect feedback and work with OMIC to finalize all certification questions and standards.