According to recent research, 96% of American adults own a cell phone and 81% of those are smartphones. Just 10 years ago that number was only 35%. As mobile devices become the place that life happens, now is a better time than ever to consider a career in the field.
In recent years the growing field spawned the birth of the WISE Certification program. If you’re considering getting into the booming field of wireless device repair and service, this certification program is where you need to start.
So what is WISE, why should you consider pursuing certification, and how can you get started? Find everything you need to know here.
What Is WISE Certification?
WISE stands for Wireless Industry Service Excellence. It is a CTIA certification program designed to identify high-quality wireless device professionals.
When you consider how many mobile devices are out there, you can start to understand the why for a program like this.
Consumers have the right to know that their devices are in good, knowledgeable, and professional hands. The two levels of WISE certification help to quickly identify those professionals:
Level 1 Certification
The first level of WISE certification involves a knowledge test. Applicants are given study materials that cover a wide range of mobile repair issues including topics like:
- Diagnosis and triage
- Anatomy of a smartphone
- Lithium-ion batteries
- Safety best practices
- and more…
Any technician interested in moving on to level 2 certification must first pass this knowledge exam. Non-technical staff and salespeople for wireless retail stores or smartphone repair shops should consider this certification, as well.
Generally, diagnosis and repairs that can be done without opening a smartphone can and should be done by level 1 WISE technicians as they have a proven knowledge base.
Level 2 Certification
This level of certification is much more in-depth than the first. Any technician interested in this level of certification must complete a training program lead by a licensed facilitator.
This training is based on practical skills and conducted with live devices. Level 2 training is designed to mimic an apprenticeship wherein trainees can hone their skills under expert supervision.
Technicians that complete the training course will take a final practical hands-on exam. This exam must be done with one or more live devices. After completing both stages, technicians can get their final certification.
Level 2 Facilitator License
If you are interested in becoming a licensed facilitator for level 2 training, there are some requirements you must meet.
You’ll need to:
- Establish a training program
- Complete leadership and mentor training
- Have ready access to devices for the training and practical exam
If you can qualify, there is certainly a demand for these facilitators.
Why Does WISE Matter?
Consumers trust their mobile device repairs to technicians every day. It is a booming business. CTIA’s certification lets your potential customers know that you know what you’re doing. But it can also help set you apart from your competition.
The WISE Certification badges can help you grow your business the right way by providing quality repair services and building a reputation for excellence.
If you want to know more about what’s happening in the ever-expanding worlds of technology and business, head back over to our site for the latest.
