Q. Who should participate?
A. Installers, technicians, and integrators from any company working in the low-voltage industry. Since our curriculum covers the basics common to all technologies, as well as specifics across the industry (video, access control systems, fire alarm systems, etc.) your employees will benefit from this training. Hiring a new employee? This is the perfect opportunity to get them started on the right path.
Q. Does every student need to start at Level 1?
A. No, depending on the student's skill level and experience, they may start at Level 2 or Level 3. We do recommend, however, that students take the NSCA University online assessment to ensure they are enrolled in the level that is most appropriate for them.
Q. How much time will my employees spend away from work while enrolled in EST Training?
A. Hardly any! Students and their on-site facilitator need to spend just 2 hours per week on classroom training. This can be done during work hours, but many do this before or after the workday. In addition, the student should expect to spend 3 hours per week reading assignments, viewing online presentations, and taking quizzes and tests. Most companies arrange for this to be done during the student's personal time.
Q. How does the EST Training Series relate to the NSCA Certification program?
A. While EST training provides excellent preparation for NSCA's certification exams, certification does not need to be the goal of every participant.
Q. What is the role of the facilitator? Do we need to have one?
A. The role of a facilitator is to provide 2 hours of classroom and hands-on instruction to the student(s) with materials provided by the EST Master Instructor. The facilitator oversees mid-term and final exams and submits grading/performance evaluations to the Master Instructor. A facilitator is required for all EST Training students. The facilitator should have the skills and experience typical of a lead technician or higher, and above average communication skills. However, facilitators do not need to have completed EST Training themselves or be NSCA certified.
Q. Who is the EST Master Instructor?
A. The EST Training Master Instructor is Larry Garter. Larry is responsible for online instruction of the EST Training series, lesson plan development, the coordination of materials, and support. He brings over 25 years of experience in the communications industry and has been a long-time NSCA member. He has served in multiple capacities from owner of a contracting firm to sales engineer to his current position as founder and principle of the technology consulting firm Techplex.