ESA’s National Training School Continues to Grow Recognition among AHJs

ESA’s National Training School Continues to Grow Recognition among AHJs
Jillian Bateman — November 7, 2019

As it prepares for 2020, ESA’s National Training School (NTS) continues to garner approvals from new jurisdictions to provide its quality training and certifications to more electronic security and life safety industry professionals across the nation. NTS is already the outlet most widely recognized by authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) for electronic security professionals seeking to meet state and local licensing requirements. Continued efforts by the ESA NTS team aim to increase this coverage.

At this time, 70% of the states that require training, certification and/or continued education recognize NTS training to fulfill licensing requirements. This recognition is expected to grow through the rest of 2019 and beyond, as NTS currently has proposals to gain approval of NTS fire alarm certifications as an alternative to NICET requirements in four additional states. In fact, as recently as late 2019, the City of Wichita and Sedgwick County, KS approved NTS Certified Fire Alarm Technician (CFAT) Level II as an alternative to NICET II for Level II fire alarm.

Because licensing is so complicated, many companies look to NTS to navigate licensing laws. NTS works hard to simplify the process for its customers by maintaining relationships and compiling knowledge from the state regulators so it can create packages of courses that cater to each locale. In fact, in many instances, if a company operates in certain bordering states, its installers can take one NTS course that will satisfy multiple state licensing requirements.

“It’s a nightmare for companies that are starting out. When they’re getting into the industry and they start looking at the licensing laws, it’s overwhelming for them to know what they need,” says Pat Allen, Director of Compliance and Business Development at NTS. “Our state licensing guide, coupled with the personal assistance they get at NTS, is a tremendous resource for companies looking to navigate the state licensing laws.”

The superior service and simple solutions provided by NTS contribute to the appreciation it receives from businesses across the nation. NTS is hopeful that these key indicators of success will continue to grow as it offers flexible and innovative education under its belief that “Not all training is created equal.”

ESA Members secure exclusive discounts on NTS training — and in 2020 all ESA Members will receive a $250 training credit to experience the NTS difference.