Originally Posted By: jfarsetta
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I am neither against the program, nor against the designation. What is the advantage of it, if not for the fact that an inspector could use the title?
As to going outside of NACHI for this, its not the first time, nor will it be the last, I'm afraid.
I believe CATS doesnt train for free. We pay for People's Energy to train folks in Illinois. On and on. I think that the really important item to consider is that the venue for receiving this educational program be made through multiple outlets, operating within a general framework of course curriculum. Similar to what is happening here in NY, CMI education should be viewed as a framework of modules intended to broaden an inspector's horizon, and ultimately, intuitiveness.
The net result of years of experience is intuition. You've seen it before, and know what it is, or is not. You cant learn that from a book. Sometimes to broaden one's horizon, it may mean going back to square one, and learning something new, or forgotten. That's what's so great about the concept of CMI.
As to following the money, it will undoubtedly go to the for-profit, and not-for-profit institutions who choose to teach it.
As to John O's question, as the designation has a criteria of achievement, one cannot simply use it without NACHI's permission. I also believe that a good number of experienced inspectors will likely qualify to take the exam without needing a course. Of course, if you stop and think about those 24 CEUs NACHI requires, in states where education is not mandatory, this sort of course is beneficial at multiple levels.
Finally, ask yourselves this: when you take those CEUs, do you have to pay for the course? Even if NACHI sponsors it, someone pays.