A while ago, I decided to get serious about the new Certified SolidWorks Expert (CSWE) test.  I passed my CSWP back in 2001, and I’ve been fairly diligent in keeping up with the new features.  As internal CAD support, it’s my job to have the answers or be able to get them quickly.  I’ve been working with Sheet Metal quite a bit lately.  So, it seemed like the most likely candidate for a test.  I’ve read a lot of quibbling about the new CSWA/CSWP tests… ‘They’re too easy’, ‘It’s only 3.5hrs long, I passed the 8hr test’, blah, blah, blah… I figured “What the heck, let’s have a go!”

I studied, went through the sample exam, and admitted I was a little on the slow side.  My ‘clicker’ isn’t as fast as it was 9 years ago, but, I’d make up the speed with my accuracy & knowledge. (yeah, I’m chuckling too…).  I set aside a time when I wouldn’t be disturbed, and I recommend dual screens, one for SW and one for the test window.  Reference material ready, and SW iPod jammin’ my favorite ‘80’s tunes, and a cold Coke, I was ready to test!

The Tangix TesterPRO software was easy to download & install.  I used my existing CSWP User ID & Password to login.  The Exam Selection page is easy to use and very clear regarding what exams I was able to take at that time.  If a green ‘GO’ arrow isn’t present, then there is a place below to enter your voucher number.  In the case of a prerequisite not yet met, just click the symbol and it will inform you of the details.  One thing I can tell you, and hopefully relieve some concern, is that the ticker doesn’t begin until you are actually working on the test.

I won’t bore anyone with the details of the test, and deprive you of any testing joy, but I will say that the test was challenging and fair.  I believe the tests are designed to test us in functional areas and correct application of SW tools & methods.  This wasn’t realized until I saw my score card at the end.  We all know there are many different ways to make a certain model feature, but SW does prefer certain modeling methods for certain types of features.  Driving home after my test, I realized what my key mistake was.  It had to do with feature application, not model creation.  This cost me time early on, and only got worse as the test progressed.  Had I used the correct SW feature, I’m certain I would have had more time to complete the test and would have passed without issue.  My models, though 100% correct, were not created as efficiently as possible, thus taking more time to create.

I can’t write this review without plugging my favorite training tools, Solid Professor, and books by Matt Lombard and David Murray.  David Ptak and his crew at Solid Professor have created an outstanding tool for training and review.  You could also take classroom courses at your VAR or local college.

My advice for those preparing for any certification test is as follows:

1. Study.  Invest in up-to-date references.  Read the SW Help Screens. Go through the SW Tutorials.
   
   
2. Practice.  Regard the time limits on the sample test as limits.  If you can’t surpass them, you’re not ready.  Don’t rush taking the test… it isn’t worth it.  Unless you like eating crow & humble pie!
   
   
3. Understand the concepts.  Know the strengths of each tool, and when to use it.
   
   

The SolidWorks Certification Tests are a fair assessment of one’s abilities to understand SolidWorks tools and use them effectively & efficiently.  My CSWP has, without a doubt, enhanced my career, and I expect additional career improvements when I attain CSWE.

I’ll leave everyone with this for thought… if there are several SW users in your company, why not discuss a ‘certification test challenge’ at work?  The cost of these test are very low, and I’d be surprised if most employers wouldn’t assist.  The employee that reaches certification within your set guidelines could win a prize.  Or, at the very least, have bragging rights for years to come!

Good Luck, Everyone!