SolidWorks Certification exams for free…ugh.

So SolidWorks has extended their "get certified for free" deal until, effectively, the end of 2009. Ugh. I don’t know why this bugs me, but it does. Maybe it’s because when I originally took the CSWP exam, it was ~$500 and an 8 hour exam. Granted, my VAR at the time gave me a discount on the price, but not on the exam length. Somehow, this whole "free" thing, along with the shortened time, seems to lessen the certification process. When I retook the exam, as an AE, I noticed that the exam was easier. Yes, I’m sure the intervening years helped with my knowledge of SolidWorks, but there seemed to be less pressure, less angst, even though I had to get at least 90%.

I considered passing the CSWP (both times) a major milestone for me. It meant a lot to me to be able to say I was a CSWP. Not only did it show that I was quite proficient with SolidWorks, but it showed a dedication to it both in money and time.  Now it’s free, easier and 1/3 the time.

I don’t know, maybe I’m just grumpy. Maybe it’s the TES (twitchy eyelid syndrome) I’ve been dealing with for a week. Maybe I’m just sleep deprived. Maybe I’ve been so swamped at work that I haven’t been able to come up with a better blog post. Ugh.

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January 21, 2009 · Posted in SolidWorks Community  
　　　　

Comments

  • Connie Harrison
    Jeff,
    yes I am asking for a handout.... I would like to know more on the free SolidWorks exam.
  • JeffMirisola
    Connie,
    For every seat on subscription, a company is entitled to one free exam. Go to: https://www.solidworks.com/sw/support/797_ENU_H... and click on the link for 'CSWP offers...' on the right side. If you haven't already set up an account in the customer portal, you'll need to do that. When all is said and done, you'll end up with a code for a free exam. If you're going for the CSWP, be sure to join the CSWP group on LinkedIn after you pass.

    Jeff
  • dean
    I just paid 100 for the exam just to get the experience. But i think i am fooling myself. Yes free would be great But i tried the practice test and couldnt finish and when i did my answer was wrong. I am not fast to the draw and maybe thats the problem. Would love to get the logo on a business card. But oh not to sure what to do.

    thank you
  • I'm right there with you. I was first certified back in 2004, where the only resource available was a laughable "sample test". The exam was grueling, immense, and really showed your proficiency. But now? Why don't we just give all SolidWorks users the CSWP stamp? Seems like that's what they're going for.
    Ok. End rant.
  • Christine Vrooman
    I agree as well. I think a simple solution should be to call it something else. CSWP "lite"....etc...
  • I agree the new CSWP is disappointing compared to the old one. Is it eating at you that punk ass kids who don't have the financial responsibilities you have can get the same recognition for a fraction of the cost, effort and knowledge?
    I do like that they are going to have some specialty tests. I took the sheet metal one already, and I can't wait to see what they come up with for surfacing.
    You got that twitchy eye stuff? I had that and it went away when I started sleeping better and exercising a little. It's a stress thing.
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