The Industrial Commissioning Association (ICXA) is excited to unveil the ICXA Commissioning Certification Program, a groundbreaking initiative crafted for elite commissioning specialists who are driving transformative impacts on project delivery across industries. This program is designed to recognize and elevate professionals who excel in commissioning, ensuring they are equipped to handle the complexities of modern industrial projects.
It offers four distinct levels of certification, each representing a step toward greater expertise and leadership, and invites professionals worldwide to join this prestigious program.
Welcome, everyone. Today, I’m thrilled to introduce the ICA Global Commissioning Certification Program, specifically tailored for the top 1% of commissioning professionals leading the world’s most intricate projects. This program outlines a clear career development pathway to join this elite group, empowering professionals to take on strategic leadership roles.
The Institute of Commissioning and Assurance, or ICXA, is a global organization with over 4,300 members and a vibrant commissioning community of 29,000 followers across various platforms. With more than 25 local chapters worldwide, ICXA is establishing a universal standard for commissioning-led governance, ensuring the successful delivery of today’s most ambitious and complex projects.
Why do so many projects fail? The critical role of the project commissioner has been consistently under-recognized, under-supported, underrepresented, and undervalued across all industries and project phases. Commissioning is the cornerstone of project success, particularly for the world’s most significant infrastructure initiatives, yet it often lacks the recognition it deserves. Successful project delivery hinges on commissioning-led governance, which guides projects from inception to completion, ensuring alignment and operational readiness. Given its pivotal role, commissioning demands greater acknowledgment and support to fulfill its potential in driving project outcomes.
For decades, suboptimal decision-making has plagued projects, leading to an erosion of standards that results in poor alignment, coordination, and delivery. Statistics reveal that 9 out of 10 projects are delayed and over budget, largely due to fragmented processes and a lack of high-quality, standardized approaches. There’s a critical absence of systems-based thinking, which is essential for integrating project components and achieving cohesive outcomes. These challenges are well-documented, notably by Professor Bent Flyvbjerg in his book How Big Things Get Done, which details the systemic issues causing cost overruns and delays. The construction industry has lagged behind others, remaining stagnant while sectors like technology and manufacturing leverage new tools for productivity gains.
Projects often fail to start with the end in mind, with teams operating in silos, focused on individual tasks without a unified vision for transitioning projects to operational environments. Commissioning leaders bridge this gap, ensuring projects are designed and executed with the final operational phase as the guiding focus. Stephen Covey’s principle of “starting with the end in mind” is critical for projects and commissioning, emphasizing the need for a systems-based approach to achieve success. Without commissioning-led governance, projects suffer from misalignment, leading to unpredictable outcomes as teams scramble to integrate systems at the end. This is akin to packing a parachute while already in freefall—effective planning must occur at the outset, not during the final stages.
Projects urgently need strong leaders with proven delivery records, and commissioning professionals are uniquely equipped to fill this leadership void, as they are responsible for handing over completed projects to owners. These professionals are the strategic leaders who can establish project governance, shifting from area-based installations to systems-based completions that ensure operational readiness. This transition requires a systems-based thinking approach, aligning all project groups toward a common goal from the very beginning. Project Outcome Assurance, achieved through commissioning-led governance, sets a clear vision and strategy, incorporating five key pillars to guarantee project success.
The ICxA career development pathway transforms individuals from task-oriented doers to strategic directors, recognizing leadership in commissioning beyond mere testing skills.
At ICxA, we’re revolutionizing the industry by cultivating current and future project leaders capable of steering complex projects to success. The pathway comprises four certification levels:
CxP (Certified Commissioning Professional), earned through the ICXA course and exam, establishes a foundational commitment to outcome assurance and systems-based thinking.
CxL (Certified Commissioning Lead) acknowledges leadership in commissioning execution, requiring peer-validated project experience to demonstrate real-world impact.
CxPM (Certified Commissioning Project Manager) recognizes professionals leading commissioning across all project phases, necessitating a comprehensive portfolio aligned with the five pillars of outcome assurance. CXOA (Certified Outcome Authority), an invitation-only level, is reserved for the elite 1% who set global standards in project governance, leading the most complex initiatives. Membership in ICXA grants access to extensive resources, including course materials, commissioning standards, handbooks, and the exclusive
ICxA Knowledge Hub. The Knowledge Hub connects members with leadership events, mastermind sessions, and global experts, fostering an environment for learning and professional growth.
By surrounding yourself with industry leaders, you gain the insights and expertise needed to become a commissioning authority. Membership also provides opportunities to influence policy, engage in research, and network with over 8,500 like-minded professionals dedicated to project excellence. As projects grow increasingly complex, strong commissioning-led governance is essential to piece together the intricate puzzle of integrated systems.
Joining ICxA’s mentorship program positions you as the orchestrator of complex projects, equipping you with the foundational knowledge for systems-based thinking. To get started, visit icxa.net, navigate to the certification section, and choose between a monthly or annual membership to access all resources.
This initiative offers global recognition, professional qualifications, and a wealth of resources to help you become an elite commissioning professional. Join this global movement to elevate commissioning’s role and deliver successful project outcomes, transforming how projects are executed worldwide.
Q & A
Q: They think equipment is plug and play. How is commissioning different?
A: Commissioning is not just testing at the end, as many believe. Project documentation often blurs testing and commissioning, but commissioning is project governance and leadership from the start to guide projects to success. This program develops strategic project leaders.
Comment: Crawford recommended Built to Fail by Todd Zabel, which views construction as a production system to align with commissioning outcomes, offering valuable insights for professionals.
Q: Mario mentioned that both terms, commissioning agent and commissioning authority, are used. Can you clarify the difference?
A: The term commissioning agent is often confused with commissioning authority. I prefer the term commissioning authority. A commissioning agent often refers to those handling the building side of things, such as test and balancing or more basic testing elements. In contrast, a commissioning authority refers to the leadership role, such as the commissioning lead, project manager, or outcome authority guiding projects to success from the start. Both terms apply and are definitely required.
Q: Alan, it seems like ICXA in North America is doing valuable work. Is there an opportunity for collaboration?
A: Hi, Alan, good to see you. Absolutely, projects badly need this level of leadership and governance. We need to collectively work together, gathering everyone’s wisdom to address project challenges and help them succeed. Breaking down silos and fostering collaboration is fundamental. Commissioning-led governance helps projects work together, solve problems, and align to achieve outcomes. Delighted to contribute where I can.
Q: What is the timeline for completing the certification?
A: There is no set timeline. When you join as a member through our career development pathway, you instantly get access to foundational knowledge to achieve your first CXP level. You can move as fast or as slow as your time and project priorities allow. Some complete the foundational knowledge quickly to achieve CXP, while others take several months, and that’s fine. There’s no time limit, and you can progress at your own pace. For CXL and CXP levels, project experience is required, which you can submit at your discretion to achieve those levels.
Q: Can you share the link for certificate requirements?
A: Go to icxa.net and click on the certification link at the top. This will list all the requirements to enroll and progress through each level of the ICXA certification program.
Q: Are there levels of commissioning from design to handover?
A: Yes, there is a structured process with stage gates required from the start to the end of projects. This is defined in the ICA Global Commissioning Standard and the ICA Global Outcome Assurance Standard, which outline the process and transitions through all project phases.
Q: Are certified professionals listed in a database?
A: Yes, once you achieve the CXP level, you are listed on the ICXA website, showcasing your certification. As you progress to higher levels like CXL or CXPM by submitting project experience, your achievements are updated on the website to reflect your professional qualifications as you work toward becoming an Outcome Assurance Authority.
Q: Is there an additional fee for accessing training materials or certification?
A: No additional fees. When you become a member, you pay a monthly or annual fee, which includes access to all training materials, handbooks, and foundational knowledge. This is an incredible value to become an elite commissioning professional. Check icxa.net for details, as the value is immense, and the price may increase.
Q: Can you elaborate on the certification gates for commissioning?
A: There are four levels:
- CxP: Achieved by reviewing foundational knowledge provided upon enrollment, including training materials and a printed handbook. When ready, you take the CxP exam to earn this level.
- CxL: Requires demonstrated experience leading projects to successful completion.
- CxPM: For industry experts managing all aspects of commissioning across disciplines and project phases, with experience reviewed by the ICXA Board of Directors.
- CxOA: An invitation-only level for the elite 1% of commissioning professionals, recognized as strategic leaders in the industry.
Q: I have a job opportunity in the USA. If you live in the USA and have a work permit, can you share your resume?
A: If you need access to job opportunities, contact Marco via his email. He can assist you.
Q: Will there be a live registry of authorized individuals and organizations?
A: Yes, a registry will be showcased on the ICxA website soon, listing individuals who have achieved various certification levels. As you progress, your name will appear, reflecting your level.
Q: Do certificates have an expiration date?
A: A certificate is issued when you pass the exam, which remains valid as long as you maintain your membership. More importantly, achieving levels like CxL and CxPM demonstrates your commitment to leadership, showcased on the website. Commissioning requires a lifelong commitment to learning, and these levels reflect your ongoing growth through project experience, vetted by the ICxA Board of Directors.
Q: How can we maintain accreditation over time?
A: Maintaining accreditation involves engaging with our commissioning community through exclusive access to mastermind events, quarterly commissioning summits, and collaboration with industry experts. This environment fosters continuous learning and growth, ensuring you maintain your accreditation by surrounding yourself with top professionals.
Q: I’m a systems completion engineer. Is the CxP certification recommended for standardizing projects in this space?
A: Absolutely, this program is designed for systems-based thinking to complete projects. If you’re involved in systems completion, this is the course to develop your skills and become part of the elite 1% of commissioning experts. It’s tailored to help you make an impact on projects as a commissioning leader.
Q: Does ICxA provide badges for certification?
A: Yes, we issue badges linked to the blockchain, allowing anyone to verify the validity of your certificate via a QR code. If certification requirements are not maintained, badges can be invalidated to ensure program integrity.
Q: Can users stop at the CxP level if they choose?
A: Yes, individuals can choose to remain at the CxP level and maintain it as long as they are ICxA members. You can opt to progress further or stay at CxP based on your career goals. There’s no long-term commitment, and you can drop out at any time.
Q: Does the commissioning training cover Greenfield, Brownfield, or both?
A: The training covers both Greenfield and Brownfield projects. It provides a systems-based thinking approach to manage commissioning for simple or complex systems across industries like power, oil and gas, and more.
Q: Alan commented on the need for early engagement of senior CSU professionals. Any thoughts?
A: I agree 100%. Early engagement of senior CSU professionals, even before FEED or financial investment decisions, is critical. Modularization and reducing on-site CSU require active involvement early in the project lifecycle. Clients, insurers, and financiers insisting on licensed CSU professionals will drive greater recognition and involvement, ensuring successful project outcomes.
Q: Is there an additional fee for the certification test?
A: No, everything is included in the membership fee, whether monthly or annual. This covers the commissioning handbook, training materials, and the exam, which you can take when ready.
Q: How can commissioning address the issues caused by engineering outsourced to multiple agencies without proper integration leadership?
A: The lack of integration leadership is a fundamental problem, leading to disjointed projects and eroded standards. Strong, strategic commissioning leaders involved from the start provide integration leadership across all project phases, breaking down silos, aligning systems and teams, and ensuring successful outcomes. This is why ICxA exists—to provide this leadership and career development pathway to deliver complex projects effectively.
Q: How can engineering phase commissioning be integrated to avoid issues requiring outcome assurance at the beginning?
A: Commissioning-led governance at the project’s start ties the end goals to the beginning, breaking down silos, aligning systems, and ensuring commissioning is integrated into early engineering phases. This strategic leadership ensures project success.
Q: Can someone go directly to CxPM without passing CxP or CxL?
A: Yes, if you’re functioning at a CxPM level, you can join, review the material, pass the CxP exam, and submit your portfolio. If your experience aligns with CxPM requirements, you can move directly to that level, recognizing your prior contributions without waiting years.
Q: Does each accredited level have a duration?
A: Yes, levels require demonstrated project experience. Newcomers may start at CxP, while those with experience, like Marco, can submit their portfolio to qualify for higher levels like CxPM immediately. Real-world experience is critical to mastering commissioning.
Q: Can the presentation be shared to spread the word in Mexico?
A: Absolutely, this discussion is live-streamed on LinkedIn, YouTube, and Facebook. I’ll send out the links so you can share them and get people involved to grow the leaders needed for successful project outcomes.
Q: Why aren’t LNG or petrochemical commissioning experiences considered for renewable energy openings?
A: There are misconceptions about commissioning, often seen as just end-stage testing. However, commissioning-led governance applies to petrochemicals, LNG, renewables, and more, requiring the same systems-based approach from the start. This program helps break through these barriers to clarify commissioning’s critical role.
Q: How can condition monitoring and reliability be integrated into commissioning?
A: Commissioning is fundamental to achieving reliability. Without robust commissioning-led governance from the start, projects struggle to meet performance guarantees, like five-nines reliability in data centers. A structured process, as outlined in the ICA Global Commissioning Standard, ensures high reliability and condition monitoring by integrating these requirements early.
Q: As a senior commissioning leader returning to the field, can I land at a higher certification level?
A: Yes, if you can demonstrate experience aligning with CxL or CxPM levels, you can submit your portfolio and be slotted into the appropriate level immediately. The exam will be straightforward, and we’ll recognize your expertise right away.
Q: Can this certificate be used for pulp and paper projects?
A: Yes, the certification applies to any manufacturing facility, including pulp and paper, requiring a systems-based approach to transition from construction to operation. It recognizes you as a leader in delivering such projects.
Q: Are LNG and petrochemical commissioning more complex than renewable energies, yet requirements are set for renewables?
A: Yes, LNG and petrochemicals are more complex, but there’s industry confusion equating building commissioning with complex systems. This program recognizes the specific governance needed for complex systems like LNG, petrochemicals, and wastewater treatment, distinct from simpler building systems.
Q: Does the certification specify the industry, like data centers or oil and gas?
A: Yes, certifications reflect your expertise in specific industries, such as data centers or oil and gas, as experience in one may not translate directly to another. This distinction is showcased on the ICxA website.
Q: Is there a referral program for certification?
A: Yes, it’s a peer-reviewed process. Submitted portfolios for levels like CxL are reviewed by the ICxA Board of Directors to ensure integrity and conformity across all candidates.
Q: Does the certification apply to social, economic, natural, or industrial systems?
A: Yes, as Peter, our Director of Policy Integration and Governance, notes, it applies to any system within the built environment requiring a systems-based approach.
Q: How does ICXA’s certification differ from building commissioning certifications?
A: Building commissioning certifications, like ASHRAE’s, are suited for simpler systems like HVAC. ICxA’s program is designed for complex systems—LNG, petrochemicals, power systems—requiring sophisticated, governance-led commissioning, not applicable to basic building systems.
Q: Are there plans for a membership summit in the USA or Canada?
A: Yes, paid members get access to quarterly mastermind and mentorship events, both online and in-person, where you can collaborate with industry leaders. These events support your growth as a commissioning expert.
Q: What’s the minimum time frame from commissioning professional to final certification?
A: There’s no minimum time frame; it depends on your pace and experience. Mastering commissioning takes time and project experience, potentially spanning years, but the program is flexible to accommodate your progression.
Q: How can I join the ICxA program?
A: Visit icxa.net to enroll in the first 100 membership slots. This will be broadcast to over 30,000 members, so act quickly to secure your spot and start your journey to becoming an elite commissioning expert.
Thank you, everyone.
To become a member of the Institute of Commissioning and Assurance, visit icxa.net. Members get access to commissioning standards, procurement specifications, training, certification, and specialized resources to support commissioning of industrial plants, processes, and energy systems.
To become a member of the Institute of Commissioning and Assurance, visit icxa.net. Members get access to commissioning standards, procurement specifications, training, certification, and specialized resources to support commissioning of industrial plants, processes, and energy systems.
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