Chroma Professional Development Portal

This online certificate program introduces non-financial managers to the essentials of finance. The courses will help you become conversant in critical financial terminology, and you’ll learn how to calculate key financial management indicators. You will learn how to assess your organization’s financial health by reviewing balance sheets, income statements, and statements of cash flow, and you will discover how finance and accounting tools can be used to support informed decision making within organizations.

Courses Included in this Certificate

How to Read a Financial Statement

Introduction to Finance

Introduction to Business Statistics

Financial Planning and Control

Time Value of Money and Risk

Understanding and Managing Budgets

Credits

19 ATD CI Credits

19 HRCI Credits

1.90 IACET CEU Credits

19 SHRM Credits

19 PMI PDUs

• 13 Business Acumen PDUs
• 0.25 Power Skills PDUs
• 5.75 Ways of Working PDUs

The ability to write clearly and directly is highly prized in most organizations. Well-written emails and documents can help you earn respect among your peers. And poorly written emails and documents can detract from success at all levels. The ideas, techniques, and checklists in this introductory-level course apply to all forms of business writing: memos, reports, brochures, proposals, presentations, catalogs, and websites. This course will also teach how to revise for wordiness, unnecessary phrases, redundancy, and jargon, and the appropriate use of email in an organizational setting.

Technical writing is a highly coveted professional skill that involves absorbing technical information and then communicating it through a document that is tailored to a specific audience, usually to inform, instruct, or persuade. This introductory course will explain what technical writing is and what technical writers do, exploring the tools, techniques, and strategies they employ. It will also guide you through the technical writing process, from initial plans to final revisions.

Uncertainty plays a major role in the business world. You may not be able to fully predict the outcome of a decision, but you can use mathematical tools to help you make informed decisions and manage risks. This course will introduce you to the concepts of probability and statistics. You will learn how to calculate probabilities in a variety of situations. You will also explore simple ways to organize and analyze data by learning about different graphical displays and basic statistical terminology.

The PM Skills^® PMSCP^® certification includes 14 courses that are completely online and self-paced, which provides the most flexibility in completing the curriculum. No prerequisites are required for the PM Skills^® courses, but it is recommended that you complete the Interpersonal Skills for Project Leaders course before beginning the others. The learner must complete all 14 courses before taking the PMSCP^® certification exam. A course will be considered complete when the participant has done all assignments, exercises, review checkpoints, and has received at least a 70% on the course final exam. All PM Skills^® courses carry Project Management Institute Professional Development Units (PDUs). PMSCP^® Certification Exam Upon successful completion of the PM Skills^® courses, students will be required to achieve a passing mark of 70% or higher on the PMSCP^® exam. The exam consists of 200 questions covering material from the 14 PM Skills^® courses. The following highlights the exam:

• Along with all 14 PM Skills^® courses, the PMSCP^® exam is included in the cost of the course bundle. Students will have 3 attempts to successfully pass the exam (70% or higher).
• The exam is administered and proctored online. Students will need to have an active internet connection to complete the exam.
• The exam consists of 200 questions. The questions are randomly selected and cover material from all 14 PM Skills^® courses.
• Students have a maximum of 2 hours to complete the exam.
• Once the exam is complete, the student will be notified immediately if they passed the exam.
• Students will not have access to their answers; this information is kept confidential.
• Upon successfully completing these courses and the final PMSCP^® certification exam, you will be awarded the PM Skills^® PMSCP^® certification.

This certificate in data analytics provides an overview of topics in statistics and their applications in a variety of fields. This certificate will present the basics of quantitative analysis and its increasing use in today’s professional landscape. Learners are exposed to quantitative decision-making tools and techniques, which tie into real-world case studies. Each course in this certificate utilizes games, videos, interactive exercises, quizzes, real world case studies, and other engaging content to ensure rapid mastery of the content and direct application. Course videos and lessons focus on use of both Microsoft Excel and OpenOffice.

When using data analysis to improve organizational performance, it’s vital to employ the tools that bring the data to life and keep people engaged in the process. Organizations in both the public and private sectors often use tools and frameworks to deliver the data, and the information the data might suggest, to its staff. This intermediate-level course will explain some of these measures and tools, describe some specific measurements, and explain the relationship between assessment and strategy. Summarizing the data with the correct tool can be the gating factor to reaching staff and effecting changes that spur performance improvement.

This course discusses data-driven decision making across a variety of sectors such as healthcare, education, and government. This course also offers recommendations for decision-making based on data analytics for each sector. The course will begin with an introduction of Big Data, then continue into a deeper dive on its implications within each sector.

Professionals in all industries rely on data to make decisions. By including data in your decision-making process, you can remove some of the guesswork that comes from relying solely on instincts and experience. This course will introduce you to the world of data analysis by exploring the Davenport-Kim three-stage model for quantitative analysis. You will learn about different analytical methods, data quality and management, and visual representations of data. You will also explore research standards and best practices, as well as challenges that may arise as you analyze data. This course will provide you with information you can use to better understand data and its importance in the business world.

Statistical Process Control is all about boosting quality. Quality management can not only deliver value to customers and stakeholders, it can also enable data-driven decision making that helps organizations gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace. This intermediate-level course will introduce the basics of quality management, explaining the difference between quality control and quality assurance, providing methods for application of analysis, showing different applications of the Seven Basic Quality Tools. It all culminates in a brief case study, which illustrates the concepts covered.

Managing today can require good instincts. However, instinct is not enough to manage the huge amounts of available data and the complex variables of the business world. Statistics can help managers and leaders make sense of these complexities, back-up their assertions, and feel confident about when to take the risks and when to pump the breaks. This intermediate-level course examines statistics as a managerial tool. It also looks at common graphical representations of data and how these can be effective tools to explain situations and support persuasive arguments for a course of action.

There are a number of statistical tools and techniques that are commonly used by organizations to inform decision-making. These tools span numerous business functions and support many different objectives. This intermediate-level course describes, evaluates, and analyzes different statistical techniques and their real-world limitations and benefits. The course features crossover analysis, break-even analysis, cluster analysis, decision tree analysis as well as an introduction to regression.

SME’s Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) is an industry certification focused on basic manufacturing concepts, demonstrating an individual’s potential for high-demand, entry-level manufacturing roles. It was designed for individuals new to manufacturing who may not currently possess enough knowledge or experience for more advanced technical certifications.

For example, if you are a high school student, dislocated worker, or an individual coming from other non-manufacturing sectors who wishes to pursue a role as an assembler, manufacturing associate, production associate, production laborer, or other entry-level manufacturing occupations—this course could be right for you. It is not required that you be an SME member to pursue the certification and begin work towards becoming a certified manufacturing specialist.

This advanced manufacturing training course demonstrates that you have basic knowledge of manufacturing and may be an ideal candidate for entry-level manufacturing employment. Fundamental topics covered in your course include shop math, assembly, maintenance, machining, inspection, and more.

The CMfgA credential offers an initial step into a technology-rich industry filled with opportunities for continued growth and advancement into higher-level positions. After completing your course and earning the CMfgA, SME encourages you to explore a variety of available career pathways in manufacturing and continue with training or education to earn more advanced technical certifications. The CMfgA can also be a first step and feeder into more advanced technical certifications, offering careers with higher pay and skills.

This course offers enrollment with or without a voucher. The voucher covers the cost of the certifying exam upon eligibility.

What you will learn

• An introduction to basic concepts necessary for a successful career as a Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA)
• Gain a foundational understanding of safety, manufacturing essentials, fasteners, inspection, CNC, additive manufacturing, robotics, lean, and quality upon completion of the course
• Review important topics, such as shop math, assembly, maintenance, machining, inspection, and more

How you will benefit

• Obtain an industry-driven certification that validates your knowledge and skills in manufacturing
• Develop a foundational understanding of key manufacturing best practices and skills needed for entry-level manufacturing employment
• Enhance your employability and stand out to potential employers with your new knowledge and credential
• Improve your chances of landing a job in the manufacturing industry, as the certification demonstrates that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in this field

Syllabus

1. Safety
2. Manufacturing Essentials
3. Fasteners
4. Inspection
5. CNC
6. Additive Manufacturing
7. Robotics
8. Lean
9. Quality

Requirements

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 10 or later.
• Mac: macOS 12 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox is preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Microsoft Word Online
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Prerequisites:

There are no prerequisites for this entry-level course. However, this course requires basic computer skills, including the ability to open and manage windows, navigate websites, and perform common online tasks such as downloading files, completing forms, and using web-based tools.

Ready to achieve your manufacturing engineer certification? The Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) course is ideal for you if you have advanced manufacturing engineering experience, are in a leadership position, or support manufacturing practices at a manufacturing organization. Our manufacturing engineering course is designed to provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this in-demand career.

This advanced manufacturing training course covers a broad range of related topics, including foundational knowledge such as mathematics, print reading, and engineering science. It also covers the application of manufacturing processes and materials properties, as well as design and development, including intellectual property protection and computer-aided design.

This course emphasizes quality control and continuous improvement while also covering business acumen and soft skills such as project management, finance, and labor relations. In addition, it covers the use of digital tools and automation, including robotics and the Internet of Things. Overall, this manufacturing engineer certification course provides a well-rounded education for those seeking a career in the manufacturing industry.

By course completion, you will be prepared for SME’s Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) exam. This course offers enrollment with or without a voucher. The voucher covers the fee to sit for the certifying exam upon eligibility.

What you will learn

• Explore a wide range of manufacturing topics
• Obtain foundational knowledge in areas such as mathematics, print reading, and engineering science
• Review manufacturing processes and materials properties, design and development, and digital tools and automation
• Discover and gain quality control, continuous improvement, business acumen, and soft skills
• Provide yourself with a comprehensive education if you are seeking a career in manufacturing

How you will benefit

• Demonstrate that your skills are current and validate your knowledge and application of lean principles and tools, which can make you a high-value commodity to your employer and among the most sought-after individuals in your industry
• Earn a recognized and respected industry credential that validates your knowledge against industry standards and shows your commitment to continuous education, enhancing your career opportunities
• Improve your marketability and stand out to employers

Syllabus

1. Additive Manufacturing
2. Applied Mathematics
3. CNC Machining
4. Composites
5. Electrical Systems
6. Fasteners
7. Hydraulics and Pneumatics
8. Inspection
9. Lean
10. Materials
11. Mechanical Systems
12. Metal Cutting
13. Motor Controls
14. PLCs
15. PLCs: Siemens
16. Quality
17. Rigging
18. Robotics
19. Safety
20. Smart Manufacturing
21. Supervisor Essentials
22. Welding
23. Workholding

Requirements

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 10 or later.
• Mac: macOS 12 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox is preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Microsoft Word Online
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Prerequisites:

If you have advanced manufacturing engineering experience, are in a leadership role, or have supported manufacturing practices and processes at your organization then the CMfgE could be a great way to validate your knowledge and skills. This course requires basic computer skills, including the ability to open and manage windows, navigate websites, and perform common online tasks such as downloading files, completing forms, and using web-based tools.

Are you a problem solver and a team player? Why not consider a career as an engineering technician? An engineering technician needs a practical understanding of engineering concepts to assist engineers and technologists in projects relating to research and development, implementation, or operation. This online engineering technician course can provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to prove competency and begin your career as an engineering technician quickly.

This advanced manufacturing training course provides an intensive overview of the skills necessary for this manufacturing role. You will learn math, inspection, safety, materials, machining, quality, grinding, electrical systems, automation, motor controls, additive manufacturing, assembly, design, and management necessary to work as an engineering technician.

What you will learn

• Six Sigma, 5S, Lean, and TPM
• Inspection methods
• Metallurgy and materials science
• CNC controls and programming
• Programmable logic control and programming
• Electrical systems
• Fabrication and assembly processes
• Additive manufacturing processes
• Composite processing
• Product, process, and production design and management

How you will benefit

• Prepare for a career as a tool and die maker, die maker, tool and die machinist, or toolmaker
• Gain confidence in your ability to perform your job
• You will receive a Meta Quest 3 VR Headset Kit enabling you to complete virtual reality simulations to enhance your learning experience
• Here is an Overview of the Benefits of Virtual Reality to get a better understanding of the value this course provides
• Option to attend our exclusive annual virtual National Apprenticeship Week events, featuring live webinars, workshops, and employer interactions

The Certified Manufacturing Technologist (CMfgT) course is developed by industry experts and presented in an engaging and interactive format for maximum effectiveness. Prepare for SME’s CMfgT exam and expand your career opportunities.

Throughout this manufacturing technologist course, you will cover a wide range of topics, from foundational knowledge such as mathematics, print reading, and engineering science to the application of manufacturing processes and materials properties. The course also covers design and development, including intellectual property protection and computer-aided design, as well as the use of digital tools and automation, including robotics and the Internet of Things (IoT). Quality control and continuous improvement are emphasized, along with business acumen and soft skills such as project management, finance, and labor relations.

By completion of this advanced manufacturing training, you will be prepared to become an SME-certified manufacturing technologist and enter a high-demand career field. This course offers enrollment with or without a voucher. The voucher covers the fee to sit for the certifying exam upon eligibility.

What you will learn

• Obtain foundational knowledge, including mathematics, print reading, and engineering science
• Understand the application of manufacturing processes and materials properties
• Review design and development fundamentals, including intellectual property protection and computer-aided design
• Cover the use of digital tools and automation, including robotics and the Internet of Things
• Get an emphasis on quality control and continuous improvement
• Develop your business acumen and soft skills, such as project management, finance, and labor relations

How you will benefit

• The CMfgT is an entry-level certification that benefits both new and experienced manufacturing engineers
• Demonstrate your current skills and commitment to the field
• Obtain a portable industry-recognized credential that can travel with you throughout your career
• Enhance your marketability by demonstrating a commitment to continuous education
• Gain a competitive advantage in the job market and set yourself apart from peers

Welcome to the world of additive manufacturing! According to Wohlers Associates, the additive manufacturing industry is expected to grow to $40.8 billion by 2024, with a projected growth rate of 150%. As the industry continues to grow at an unprecedented rate, the demand for skilled professionals in this field is on the rise.

If you want to expand your career opportunities in this dynamic industry, consider earning the Certified Additive Manufacturing – Technician (CAM-T) certification. With this additive manufacturing certification course, you will learn to identify various 3D printing technologies and their benefits and limitations. You will also gain an understanding of the basic 3D printing process, as well as the hardware and software required for 3D digital file management.

This additive manufacturing course helps you learn how to identify common materials for each 3D printing technology and how to integrate 3D printing with secondary manufacturing processes such as casting and molding. Safety and quality considerations specific to 3D printing will also be covered in detail.

Earning the CAM-T certification will prepare you to drive your organization’s additive manufacturing initiatives forward and position you as a valuable asset in the industry.

By completion of this advanced manufacturing training, you will be prepared to become an SME-CAM-T credential holder and enter a high-demand career field. This course offers enrollment with or without a voucher. The voucher covers the fee to sit for the certifying exam upon eligibility.

What you will learn

• Identify the various 3D printing technologies & their benefits/limitations
• Define the basic 3D printing process
• Understand the hardware & software for 3D digital file management
• Identify common materials for each 3D printing technology
• Describe the integration of 3D printing with secondary manufacturing processes (e.g., casting & molding)
• Identify basic safety & quality considerations specific to 3D printing

How you will benefit

• This industry-recognized and industry-validated professional certification gives individuals an advantage.
• Validate your knowledge against industry standards and show your skills are current
• Gain a competitive advantage in the job market
• Set yourself apart from your colleagues
• Demonstrate commitment to your career and continuous improvement
• Earn a portable, industry-recognized credential that travels with you throughout your career

Do you have a knack for tinkering and fixing things with your hands? Are you looking for a career where you can do what you love every day? This online maintenance technician course includes an intensive overview of the skills required for manufacturing maintenance, including the principles of power transfer and rigging safety, as well as PLCs and robotics. It will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to begin a successful career.

A maintenance technician is required to have a thorough understanding of how machines and systems function to keep them running without breakdowns and maintain service for their expected lifespan and beyond. In this advanced manufacturing training, you will learn about workholding, math, inspection, safety, machining, quality, grinding, electrical systems, automation, mechanical systems, motor controls, rigging, and fluid systems as you prepare for your new career as a maintenance technician.

What you will learn

• Troubleshooting
• Six Sigma, 5S, Lean, and TPM
• Inspection Methods
• PLC Equipment and Communication
• Electrical, Mechanical, and Fluid Systems
• Robot Maintenance and Installation
• Fabrication and Assembly Processes
• Workholding Principles

How you will benefit

• Prepare for a career as a maintenance technician, maintenance mechanic, equipment engineering technician, facilities manager, maintenance engineer
• Gain confidence in your ability to perform your job
• Develop the knowledge and skills you need to start your career
• Enrolled students are invited to attend our exclusive annual virtual National Apprenticeship Week events, featuring live webinars, workshops, and employer interactions

Do you have a knack for tinkering and fixing things with your hands? Are you looking for a career where you can do what you love every day? This online maintenance technician course includes an intensive overview of the skills required for manufacturing maintenance, including the principles of power transfer and rigging safety, as well as PLCs and robotics. It will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to begin a successful career.

A maintenance technician is required to have a thorough understanding of how machines and systems function to keep them running without breakdowns and maintain service for their expected lifespan and beyond. In this advanced manufacturing training, you will learn about workholding, math, inspection, safety, machining, quality, grinding, electrical systems, automation, mechanical systems, motor controls, rigging, and fluid systems as you prepare for your new career as a maintenance technician.

What you will learn

• Troubleshooting
• Six Sigma, 5S, Lean, and TPM
• Inspection methods
• PLC equipment and communication
• Electrical, mechanical, and fluid systems
• Robot maintenance and installation
• Fabrication and assembly processes
• Workholding principles

How you will benefit

• Prepare for a career as a maintenance technician, maintenance mechanic, equipment engineering technician, facilities manager, maintenance engineer
• Gain confidence in your ability to perform your job
• Develop the knowledge and skills you need to start your career
• You will receive a Meta Quest 3 VR Headset Kit enabling you to complete virtual reality simulations to enhance your learning experience
• Here is an Overview of the Benefits of Virtual Reality to get a better understanding of the value this course provides
• Enrolled students are invited to attend our exclusive annual virtual National Apprenticeship Week events, featuring live webinars, workshops, and employer interactions

Do you have a keen attention to detail? A career as a quality inspector could be a great fit. This online Quality Inspector course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to prove competency and begin your new career quickly.

This advanced manufacturing training provides an intensive overview of the skills necessary for quality assurance and inspection, including math, inspection, safety, materials, quality, and management.

What you will learn

• Production Floor Safety
• Metallurgy
• Inspection Methods
• GD&T
• Six Sigma, 5S, Lean, and TPM

How you will benefit

• Prepare for a career as a quality inspector, quality technician, quality assurance inspector, quality assurance technician, quality auditor, or quality control inspector
• Gain the skills you need to confidently perform your job
• Enrolled students are invited to attend our exclusive annual virtual National Apprenticeship Week events, featuring live webinars, workshops, and employer interactions

Do you have a keen attention to detail? A career as a quality inspector could be a great fit. This online Quality Inspector course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to prove competency and begin your new career quickly.

This advanced manufacturing training provides an intensive overview of the skills necessary for quality assurance and inspection, including math, inspection, safety, materials, quality, and management. As an added bonus, you will help yourself stand out by training with virtual reality technology.

What you will learn

• Production floor safety
• Metallurgy
• Inspection methods
• GD&T
• Six Sigma, 5S, Lean, and TPM

How you will benefit

• Prepare for a career as a quality inspector, quality technician, quality assurance inspector, quality assurance technician, quality auditor, or quality control inspector
• Gain the skills you need to confidently perform your job
• You will receive a Meta Quest 3 VR Headset Kit enabling you to complete virtual reality simulations to enhance your learning experience
• Here is an Overview of the Benefits of Virtual Reality to get a better understanding of the value this course provides
• Attend our exclusive annual virtual National Apprenticeship Week events, featuring live webinars, workshops, and employer interactions