Why You Should Focus on Environmental Certificates in a Slow Economy 

The workplace has changed with the advent of Covid-19 and the slowing of the economy, but there is much you can do during this time to benefit your career in the future. During a recession, people start thinking about going back to school or working on certifications. In general, this is a good strategy and pays off in the long term.

Prepare by Acquiring a New Skill

Adding an environmental certification to your resume and skill set gives you a definite advantage in the job market and when bidding on jobs. And now is a great time to pursue a certification. A temporary slow down of work allows extra time for study and getting the paperwork in order. The goal is to be ready with a new, marketable skill set when work increases again.  

Recessions are Temporary

The current recession is temporary, as all are. And when work picks up again, environmental professionals will be in demand again. Regulations may change and you must keep up with all changes, but our need to protect the environment, people, and corporate interests remains strong. If you are currently out of work, see this as an opportunity to strengthen your skills and add certifications wherever possible. You’ll be a more valuable employee when the economy bounces back. 

Reasons to Get an Environmental Certificate 

Getting an environmental certificate strengthens your skills and resume in many ways. It shows that you are qualified in your field, recognized by the certifying agency, that you care about advancing your career and that: 

• You are up-to-date in the knowledge and skills of your profession 
• You are committed to excellence and willing to put in the extra work to constantly improve 
• You are continuously learning and ready to meet the challenges of the profession 
• Your skills are recognized and verified by the certifying body and you are on top of your field 
• Clients and employers can be confident in your training and level of professional expertise 
• Certified professionals help employers bid on federal, state, and military contracts 
• Certified professionals on staff enhance the company reputation and lend credibility to the company resume 
• You are working to rise to the top of your profession and have an advantage over your peers 

Benefits of an Environmental Certification During a Recession 

Adding to your skills and resume is an advantage at all times, but it becomes especially important during a recession. It separates you from your peers and gives you an extra endorsement that helps you find work and do it well. Having an environmental certification is an advantage to your employer because it helps win bids. This advantage alone may make the difference in getting or keeping the job.  

Your environmental certification helps you rise in your profession by validating your qualifications for managing tasks related to protecting and preserving the environment. It verifies your knowledge in the field and adds prestige to your resume. Additionally, it conveys the following benefits directly: 

• As a Certified Environmental Professional, you will be listed in the NREP^SM’s Official Registry of Environmental Professionals 
• Clients, employers, and governmental agencies recognize the certification as a testament to your skills and training 
• Environmental Certification provides recognition of your environmental knowledge and experience by the US Military, DOE, EPA, and individual states 
• NREP^SM provides opportunities for participation in credential development, national conferences, and environmental education programs 
• Local and regional affiliated organizations provide opportunities for networking and professional development 

Now is the Time to Pursue Certification

If you are qualified for an environmental certification, there is no better time than now to pursue it. With work slowing, you have the time to get your paperwork together and begin the work to become certified.  

Making Environmental Certification Affordable in a Recession

Because of the recession, educational costs are lower, making this the best time to invest in your future. Additionally, many employers want their employees to have professional certifications and are willing to support the costs of obtaining an environmental certification. Some employers will pay part of or all of the costs for the certification and give pay raises to employees when they become certified. Check with your employer to discover what benefits you may be eligible for.

First Steps to Environmental Certification

Each certification has a different set of qualifications that must be met to achieve certifications. Check the individual certification requirements to determine whether you qualify. In general, you will need relevant educational degrees such as a degree in environmental science, chemistry, biology, or an ecology degree and experience in the field.  

To start the application, you will provide your qualifications and pay an application and exam fee (where applicable.) You may want to purchase a study guide or attend a workshop. Some certifications require no exam. Once you have met the qualifications and passed the exam, if required, you will become a certified environmental professional with all the benefits.  

The National Registry of Environmental Professionals^® Offers a Variety of Certifications 

The National Registry of Environmental Professionals^® offers certifications for qualified environmental professionals and safety professionals. The organization is recognized by the United States Department of Energy (DOE) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  

The NREP^SM has been certifying professionals in the environmental industry since 1987. We offer a variety of environmental certifications that help environmental professionals advance in their careers and be recognized for their highly specific and specialized skills. An Environmental Certification from NREP^SM offers prestige and recognition for your accomplishments.