I need a little guidance. LSIT certification or NSPS CST certification? I'm torn between which exam to take.
Which would you hire? I understand there are many variables in a hiring decision. However, all things being equal, what do you think would be most beneficial in this economic climate?
I qualify for both, but do not have the means for both exams. I dont wish to reach too high and and exclude myself for a job, but I do not wish to go too low either.
Given your answer, what would be the best study guides in your opinion?
Replies
Hello Phil,
What ever test you decide to take I contribute to a website dedicated to passing surveying exams. Go to this site, register, wait a day, then go to forums, exam study group, and you will find close to 400 typical exam questions that have been illustrated, have links and all computations shown.
http://surveyorresourcepage.com/forum/login.asp?target=default.asp
Best of Luck,
Paul
Hey Phil,
Speaking from the Washington State jurisdiction, the CST was a requirement to continue on as an up-and-coming surveyor. Each level was an indication to an existing employer or perspective employer that you were continuing your education and therefore, had an invested intrest in the field. Before the 2000 debut of the mandatory 4 year degree, it was required in the state of Washington to have been certified in all levels of CST certification before becoming eligible to apply for the LSIT. Not sure where you're located but having completed both for myself, I would suggest doing both if time would allow. In my opinion, the LSIT is far more valuable to your overall saleability down the road and I'm not even sure if saleability is a word but for right now it is. Good luck to you.
Bill Furman said:
Hello Phil,
I feel the LSIT would be the way to go, but that is my opinion because there are more surveyor outfits in MD that require the LSIT over the CST.
I would also look into how many jobs require the CST in your location and see which one is easier to get. Hope this helps you.
Bill